Travel Advisory for Independent State of Papua New Guinea
This page provides a comprehensive comparison of official government travel advisories for Independent State of Papua New Guinea from multiple trusted international sources including the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, France, Spain, Ireland, and Japan. Each government assesses travel risks independently based on their own intelligence, diplomatic relationships, and risk assessment criteria. By comparing these different perspectives, travelers can make more informed decisions about their safety and security when visiting Independent State of Papua New Guinea.
The information below is aggregated from official government sources and analyzed to provide you with a unified view of the current travel situation. Last updated: 2026-04-04
AdvisoryAtlas.com Risk Level
Level 3 - Reconsider Travel
Range: Level 2 to Level 3
AdvisoryAtlas.com Safety Index
15
Safety Index Score
Overview
Papua New Guinea presents significant safety challenges due to high crime rates, inter-ethnic violence, and civil unrest. Travelers should exercise extreme caution, especially in urban centers and the Highlands Region, and be prepared for limited emergency services and healthcare infrastructure. Natural disasters like earthquakes and volcanic eruptions are also common.
Detailed Advisory Summary
Papua New Guinea is a nation characterized by complex safety and security concerns, necessitating a high degree of caution for all travelers. The country grapples with pervasive violent crime, including sexual assault, carjackings, home invasions, and armed robberies, which are particularly prevalent in major cities like Port Moresby, Lae, and Mount Hagen, as well as the Highlands provinces. Criminals often employ lethal weapons and target areas frequented by foreigners.
Inter-ethnic violence and civil unrest are recurrent threats, especially in the Highlands Region (Hela, Enga, Southern Highlands, Western Highlands, Eastern Highlands, Jiwaka, Simbu provinces) and certain urban areas. These conflicts can escalate rapidly, leading to casualties, property destruction, and disruptions to essential services. Local authorities may impose states of emergency, curfews, and movement restrictions. Kidnapping, while not always targeting foreigners, is a present risk, particularly in remote areas and near mining sites.
Healthcare facilities are extremely limited throughout the country, with specialist services being scarce and emergency treatment often delayed. Medical evacuation to neighboring countries like Australia is frequently required for serious conditions, underscoring the critical need for comprehensive travel insurance. Natural disasters, including earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions, are common due to the country's location in the Pacific 'Ring of Fire'. The monsoon season brings risks of flooding and landslides, further impacting travel and infrastructure. Road conditions are generally poor, and public transportation is unreliable and often targeted by criminals, making private, secure transport advisable. Travelers should also be aware of strict local laws, conservative cultural norms, and the presence of unexploded ordnance from WWII in certain areas.
Inter-ethnic violence and civil unrest are recurrent threats, especially in the Highlands Region (Hela, Enga, Southern Highlands, Western Highlands, Eastern Highlands, Jiwaka, Simbu provinces) and certain urban areas. These conflicts can escalate rapidly, leading to casualties, property destruction, and disruptions to essential services. Local authorities may impose states of emergency, curfews, and movement restrictions. Kidnapping, while not always targeting foreigners, is a present risk, particularly in remote areas and near mining sites.
Healthcare facilities are extremely limited throughout the country, with specialist services being scarce and emergency treatment often delayed. Medical evacuation to neighboring countries like Australia is frequently required for serious conditions, underscoring the critical need for comprehensive travel insurance. Natural disasters, including earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions, are common due to the country's location in the Pacific 'Ring of Fire'. The monsoon season brings risks of flooding and landslides, further impacting travel and infrastructure. Road conditions are generally poor, and public transportation is unreliable and often targeted by criminals, making private, secure transport advisable. Travelers should also be aware of strict local laws, conservative cultural norms, and the presence of unexploded ordnance from WWII in certain areas.
Risk Level Summary by Government Source
| Source | Risk Level | Updated | Official Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Global Affairs Canada | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-05-22 | View Source → |
| U.S. Department of State | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-05-21 | View Source → |
| Ministère des Affaires Étrangères | Level 3 - Reconsider Travel | 2026-05-24 | View Source → |
| Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-05-26 | View Source → |
| Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade | Level 3 - Reconsider Travel | 2026-05-22 | View Source → |
| Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-04-15 | View Source → |
| Department of Foreign Affairs (Ireland) | Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution | 2026-02-24 | View Source → |
| Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan | Level 3 - Reconsider Travel | 2026-05-25 | View Source → |
| Auswärtiges Amt | Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution | 2026-04-21 | View Source → |
| New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade | Level 3 - Reconsider Travel | 2026-02-24 | View Source → |
| Département fédéral des affaires étrangères (DFAE) | Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution | 2026-02-23 | View Source → |
| Regjeringen (Norway) | Level 3 - Reconsider Travel | 2026-04-27 | View Source → |
| Nederland Wereldwijd (Netherlands) | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-05-25 | View Source → |
| Viaggiare Sicuri (Italy) | Level 3 - Reconsider Travel | 2026-03-03 | View Source → |
| BMEIA (Austria) | Level 3 - Reconsider Travel | 2026-03-02 | View Source → |
| 0404 (Korea) | Level 4 - Do Not Travel | 2026-04-22 | View Source → |
| Ministry for Foreign Affairs (Finland) | Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution | 2026-03-04 | View Source → |
Safety and Security Analysis
Vaccination Information
Required Vaccines
- Yellow Fever (if coming from or transited through an airport of a country where yellow fever occurs)
Recommended for Most Travelers
- Routine vaccines (MMR, DTP, Polio, Varicella, Meningococcal disease, Seasonal Flu)
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B
- Typhoid
- Measles
Recommended for Some Travelers
- Japanese Encephalitis (for long-term stays, multiple trips to endemic areas, extended rural stays, or high mosquito contact)
- Rabies (for high-risk exposure like veterinarians, wildlife workers, children, adventure travelers, or close animal contact)
- Cholera (for high-risk travelers visiting areas with limited safe food/water or outbreaks)
- Tuberculosis (for high-risk travelers visiting prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, hospitals, or friends/relatives)
Ensure your polio vaccinations are up to date before travelling; a booster dose is recommended for adults. The cost of anti-venom for snake bites is very high, potentially up to CAD $6,000. Medical staff may expect immediate cash payment for services. Always consult a travel health care provider well in advance of your trip.
Visa Information
Visa Types
| Type | Requirement | Stay Limit | Cost | Conditions | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist | e-Visa / Embassy / VoA (for some nationalities) | 60 days | Check Embassy | Proof of onward travel and sufficient funds may be required. |
|
| Business | e-Visa / Embassy | Short-term | Check Embassy | Specific requirements apply for business activities. |
|
| Student | Embassy | Varies | Check Embassy | Enrollment proof required. |
|
| Aid Worker/Volunteer | e-Visa | Varies | Check Embassy | Proof of humanitarian work required. |
|
| Journalist | e-Visa | Varies | Check Embassy | Specific accreditation required. |
|
Entry & Legal Compliance
- Passport Validity Needed: 6 months upon entry/from date of departure
- Blank Pages Required: 1
- Dual Citizenship Policy: Legally recognized for some countries (e.g., Australia, Canada), but consular assistance may be limited.
- Proof Of Onward Travel: Required by authorities and airlines.
- Currency Limit Declaration: PGK 20,000
- Drone Usage Law: No specific law mentioned, but photography restrictions apply; check with local authorities.
Emergency Contacts
- Police (Port Moresby): 000
- Ambulance (Port Moresby): 111
- Fire Department (Port Moresby): 110
- General Emergency (Outside Port Moresby): No centralized number, contact local police station or nearest hospital directly
- PNG Maritime Rescue Coordination Center: +675 735 170 17 (Maritime emergencies)
- St. John Ambulance Service: 111 (Can assist with police contact if direct line is unavailable)
Common Scams & Tourist Traps
- Credit card and ATM fraud occurs; be cautious when using cards and ATMs, especially those with irregular features.
- Criminals may attempt to open doors of cars that are stopped or moving slowly in traffic to rob occupants.
- Criminals may demand tolls at illegal roadblocks and can assault you if payment is not made.
- Reports of fraudulent websites targeting foreign nationals applying for e-Visas to PNG exist; use official government sites only.
Cultural Etiquette in Independent State of Papua New Guinea
Do
- Dress conservatively and behave discreetly to avoid offending local sensitivities.
- Respect religious and social traditions, which are deeply rooted in diverse tribal customs.
- Always ask for permission before taking photographs of people, cultural sites, or spirit houses.
- Be aware of the local custom of 'payback,' and avoid actions that could be perceived as offensive or damaging to property.
Don't
- Do not display signs of affluence like expensive jewelry, cameras, or large amounts of cash.
- Avoid public displays of affection, as they are generally not understood or welcomed.
- Do not photograph individuals without their prior consent, as this can lead to trouble.
- Do not approach or touch animals, including stray dogs, as rabies is present.
Advisory Comparison by Government Source
Global Affairs Canada
Updated: 2026-05-22
The Canadian advisory for Papua New Guinea strongly advises avoiding non-essential travel due to high levels of crime, inter-ethnic violence, and civil unrest. It highlights specific escalating tensions in the Highlands Region since August 2024, with intensified inter-tribal clashes in Enga Province and neighboring areas, leading to casualties and property destruction. Local authorities have declared a state of emergency, imposing alcohol bans, expanded police powers, nightly curfews, and roadblocks.
The advisory details various forms of violent crime, including sexual assault, carjacking, home invasion, kidnapping, and armed robbery, often involving lethal weapons. It specifically mentions increased crime levels in Port Moresby around Parliament and Waigani, and carjackings along the Lae-Nadzab Airport highway. Unique insights include the limited police capacity to respond to crimes, suggesting private security, and the targeting of establishments frequented by foreigners like hotels and tourist areas. Piracy in coastal waters, particularly Milne Bay, is also noted. Health warnings include the high cost of anti-venom for snake bites (CAD $6,000) and the need for medical evacuation insurance due to limited healthcare facilities.
The advisory details various forms of violent crime, including sexual assault, carjacking, home invasion, kidnapping, and armed robbery, often involving lethal weapons. It specifically mentions increased crime levels in Port Moresby around Parliament and Waigani, and carjackings along the Lae-Nadzab Airport highway. Unique insights include the limited police capacity to respond to crimes, suggesting private security, and the targeting of establishments frequented by foreigners like hotels and tourist areas. Piracy in coastal waters, particularly Milne Bay, is also noted. Health warnings include the high cost of anti-venom for snake bites (CAD $6,000) and the need for medical evacuation insurance due to limited healthcare facilities.
U.S. Department of State
Updated: 2026-05-21
The U.S. Department of State advises reconsidering travel to Papua New Guinea due to crime, civil unrest, and piracy, with increased caution for kidnapping, unexploded ordnance, inconsistent healthcare, and natural disasters. It explicitly advises against travel to Central Bougainville (near Panguna mine) and most of the Highlands region due to civil unrest. A key distinction is the U.S. government's limited ability to provide emergency services outside Port Moresby due to infrastructure limitations.
The advisory provides specific details on piracy, noting at least three incidents in 2021 and 2022 involving sailboats with U.S. citizens, where criminals used physical violence. It also mentions a foreign national kidnapping in February 2023. Unique recommendations include avoiding unknown metal objects, reviewing the International Maritime Bureau's Live Piracy Report, and having functioning communication and emergency equipment if sailing. Healthcare services are described as inconsistent, with pharmaceuticals scarce, and medical evacuation to Australia, Singapore, or the Philippines often necessary. It also highlights the HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for long-term residents and the potential for crowds to react violently after road accidents, advising to go directly to the nearest police station if threatened.
The advisory provides specific details on piracy, noting at least three incidents in 2021 and 2022 involving sailboats with U.S. citizens, where criminals used physical violence. It also mentions a foreign national kidnapping in February 2023. Unique recommendations include avoiding unknown metal objects, reviewing the International Maritime Bureau's Live Piracy Report, and having functioning communication and emergency equipment if sailing. Healthcare services are described as inconsistent, with pharmaceuticals scarce, and medical evacuation to Australia, Singapore, or the Philippines often necessary. It also highlights the HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for long-term residents and the potential for crowds to react violently after road accidents, advising to go directly to the nearest police station if threatened.
Ministère des Affaires Étrangères
Updated: 2026-05-24
The French advisory emphasizes that the French Embassy in Papua New Guinea has limited capacity to assist citizens in a crisis, placing responsibility for personal safety squarely on the traveler. It strongly recommends against walking alone, day or night, and advises particular vigilance for women. The advisory explicitly proscribes the use of taxis and public buses, suggesting hotel shuttles or private security transport.
A unique recommendation is to prioritize major, fluid roads and avoid relying on GPS which might lead into high-crime neighborhoods, especially around Port Moresby airport. It also warns against 'coupeurs de routes' (road bandits) and advises against resistance during attacks. The advisory highlights the prevalence of inter-tribal armed clashes in both urban and rural areas, intensifying around elections and holidays. Specific 'zones de vigilance' are identified, including all urban centers and particularly the Highlands and Sepik provinces, where travel is strongly discouraged unless imperative and with escort. The presence of unexploded ordnance from WWII in hiking areas like the Kokoda Track and Rabaul is also noted.
A unique recommendation is to prioritize major, fluid roads and avoid relying on GPS which might lead into high-crime neighborhoods, especially around Port Moresby airport. It also warns against 'coupeurs de routes' (road bandits) and advises against resistance during attacks. The advisory highlights the prevalence of inter-tribal armed clashes in both urban and rural areas, intensifying around elections and holidays. Specific 'zones de vigilance' are identified, including all urban centers and particularly the Highlands and Sepik provinces, where travel is strongly discouraged unless imperative and with escort. The presence of unexploded ordnance from WWII in hiking areas like the Kokoda Track and Rabaul is also noted.
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
Updated: 2026-05-26
The UK FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Hela, Southern Highlands, and Enga Provinces (except Wabag District) due to high risks of tribal fighting. A unique feature is the specific mention of Cyclone Maila (Category 1) affecting parts of the Solomon Islands and moving towards Papua New Guinea, advising monitoring local weather updates. It also notes global travel impacts due to escalation in the Middle East, potentially affecting flights.
The advisory details the 'fighting zones' declared in Enga Province due to widespread intercommunal violence, with checkpoints, searches, and curfews. It highlights the serious risk of crime in Port Moresby, Lae, and Mount Hagen, specifically mentioning the area around Parliament House in Waigani and the highway between Lae and Nadzab Airport. It uniquely warns about methanol poisoning in alcoholic drinks, which has caused deaths and serious illness. The advisory also provides specific guidance for driving, noting that UK photocard licenses are valid for 6 months, and advises going to the nearest safe place after a road accident rather than remaining at the scene due to potential crowd violence.
The advisory details the 'fighting zones' declared in Enga Province due to widespread intercommunal violence, with checkpoints, searches, and curfews. It highlights the serious risk of crime in Port Moresby, Lae, and Mount Hagen, specifically mentioning the area around Parliament House in Waigani and the highway between Lae and Nadzab Airport. It uniquely warns about methanol poisoning in alcoholic drinks, which has caused deaths and serious illness. The advisory also provides specific guidance for driving, noting that UK photocard licenses are valid for 6 months, and advises going to the nearest safe place after a road accident rather than remaining at the scene due to potential crowd violence.
Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Updated: 2026-05-22
The Australian Smartraveller advice maintains an overall 'Exercise a high degree of caution' for Papua New Guinea, with higher levels for specific areas like Mount Hagen, Southern Highlands, Hela, and Enga. A unique and recent update is the requirement to complete a Digital Arrival Card (DAC) online up to 72 hours before arrival and to pay a PGK50 carbon offset green fee upon departure, with specific exemptions listed. It also confirms the detection of vaccine-derived polio and advises a booster if 10 years have passed since the last polio vaccine.
The advisory provides detailed insights into civil disorder, rioting, and looting, noting significant events in Port Moresby and other parts of PNG in January 2024. It highlights that criminal groups operate in remote areas, particularly the Highlands, around logging, mining, oil, and gas sites, and that foreigners have been targeted in kidnappings in these areas since 2022, including an Australian in February 2024. It uniquely states the Australian Government's longstanding policy of not making payments or concessions to kidnappers. The advisory also details the risks of trekking the Kokoda Track, including blockades by local communities and the presence of unexploded WWII weapons, advising extensive training and medical advice before undertaking the trek.
The advisory provides detailed insights into civil disorder, rioting, and looting, noting significant events in Port Moresby and other parts of PNG in January 2024. It highlights that criminal groups operate in remote areas, particularly the Highlands, around logging, mining, oil, and gas sites, and that foreigners have been targeted in kidnappings in these areas since 2022, including an Australian in February 2024. It uniquely states the Australian Government's longstanding policy of not making payments or concessions to kidnappers. The advisory also details the risks of trekking the Kokoda Track, including blockades by local communities and the presence of unexploded WWII weapons, advising extensive training and medical advice before undertaking the trek.
Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores
Updated: 2026-04-15
The Spanish advisory unequivocally discourages travel under any circumstance to Papua New Guinea, citing high levels of criminality and violence. It stresses the need for extreme precautions, particularly when driving, emphasizing locked doors. A unique insight is the mention of armed robberies on the road between Lae and Nadzab airport and the widespread climate of violence due to the proliferation of firearms and machetes.
The advisory identifies specific high-risk zones that should be avoided, including Bougainville Island (with prohibited areas for foreigners), the Kokoda Trail (frequent armed assaults), and the Highlands provinces (extreme tribal violence). It also warns of a high-risk situation at the land border with Indonesia due to armed clashes. For Bougainville, it specifies the need to communicate with the Provincial Administration and highlights that access to the mountainous area around the old Panguna mine is prohibited. Health information uniquely points out the obligatory yellow fever and cholera vaccinations for travelers from affected countries, and the requirement to prove polio vaccination upon entry and exit if staying longer than four weeks.
The advisory identifies specific high-risk zones that should be avoided, including Bougainville Island (with prohibited areas for foreigners), the Kokoda Trail (frequent armed assaults), and the Highlands provinces (extreme tribal violence). It also warns of a high-risk situation at the land border with Indonesia due to armed clashes. For Bougainville, it specifies the need to communicate with the Provincial Administration and highlights that access to the mountainous area around the old Panguna mine is prohibited. Health information uniquely points out the obligatory yellow fever and cholera vaccinations for travelers from affected countries, and the requirement to prove polio vaccination upon entry and exit if staying longer than four weeks.
Department of Foreign Affairs (Ireland)
Updated: 2026-02-24
The Irish advisory maintains a 'High Degree of Caution' for Papua New Guinea, emphasizing the very challenging security situation. It notes that the visa on arrival service is currently suspended for Irish citizens. A unique insight is the advice for citizens to follow the Embassy on social media (X @irlembaustralia and Facebook @Irish Embassy Australia) for updates and alerts, acknowledging the absence of a resident Irish Embassy in PNG.
The advisory highlights that inter-tribal disturbances can happen without warning in the Highland Provinces, and warns against entering the mountainous 'No Go Zone' around the old Panguna mine in Bougainville, noting that foreigners entering without authorization have had passports confiscated. It provides practical tips for crime prevention, such as not carrying passports unless necessary and keeping photocopies, which is a specific recommendation for ease of replacement. It also cautions against handing over passports as security when hiring vehicles and emphasizes the increased risk of flying due to poor airfield conditions, difficult terrain, extreme weather, and poor aircraft maintenance.
The advisory highlights that inter-tribal disturbances can happen without warning in the Highland Provinces, and warns against entering the mountainous 'No Go Zone' around the old Panguna mine in Bougainville, noting that foreigners entering without authorization have had passports confiscated. It provides practical tips for crime prevention, such as not carrying passports unless necessary and keeping photocopies, which is a specific recommendation for ease of replacement. It also cautions against handing over passports as security when hiring vehicles and emphasizes the increased risk of flying due to poor airfield conditions, difficult terrain, extreme weather, and poor aircraft maintenance.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan
Updated: 2026-05-25
The Japanese advisory issues a 'Level 2: Avoid Non-Essential Travel' for Hela and Southern Highlands provinces due to frequent tribal conflicts and deteriorating security, and 'Level 1: Exercise Sufficient Caution' for other regions. It specifically references large-scale riots and arson in Hela Province in November 2022 and hundreds of deaths in Southern Highlands due to electoral and tribal violence. A unique insight is the mention of a strike by security personnel in Port Moresby in January 2024 over government tax reforms, which triggered riots, looting, and arson, leading to an emergency declaration.
The advisory details the modus operandi of 'Rascal' crime groups, often using bush knives, knives, and homemade guns. It highlights the low arrest rate and inability of the PNG police to deter crime due to personnel and budget shortages, further exacerbated by frequent prison escapes. Specific examples of crimes against Japanese nationals include armed robberies in supermarkets and NGO offices, credit card fraud by hotel staff, and vehicle attacks by street children. It also advises against giving tips, as this can make one a target for extortion or attack. The advisory also mentions a large-scale landslide in Enga Province in 2024 and frequent earthquakes near New Britain in 2025.
The advisory details the modus operandi of 'Rascal' crime groups, often using bush knives, knives, and homemade guns. It highlights the low arrest rate and inability of the PNG police to deter crime due to personnel and budget shortages, further exacerbated by frequent prison escapes. Specific examples of crimes against Japanese nationals include armed robberies in supermarkets and NGO offices, credit card fraud by hotel staff, and vehicle attacks by street children. It also advises against giving tips, as this can make one a target for extortion or attack. The advisory also mentions a large-scale landslide in Enga Province in 2024 and frequent earthquakes near New Britain in 2025.
Auswärtiges Amt
Updated: 2026-04-21
New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Updated: 2026-02-24
The New Zealand advisory recommends 'Exercise increased caution' overall, with 'Avoid non-essential travel' for Hela, Enga, and Southern Highlands provinces due to violent tribal clashes and politically motivated unrest. It highlights that expatriates and foreigners have been targets of robbery, kidnapping, and carjacking, with a threat of kidnapping in remote areas and near mining sites. A unique note is the specific mention of increased violent crime in Port Moresby around Koki Market to 2 Mile Hill.
The advisory provides detailed advice for road travel, urging extreme caution and advising against driving alone at night, suggesting convoys or security escorts. It also uniquely advises that if involved in an accident and feeling unsafe, one should proceed to the nearest known safe place before contacting the New Zealand High Commission. It reiterates that unexploded ordnance from WWII still exists, particularly along the Kokoda Track, Milne Bay, Rabaul, Bougainville, and East New Britain. The advisory also notes that homosexual activity is illegal and could result in arrest and imprisonment.
The advisory provides detailed advice for road travel, urging extreme caution and advising against driving alone at night, suggesting convoys or security escorts. It also uniquely advises that if involved in an accident and feeling unsafe, one should proceed to the nearest known safe place before contacting the New Zealand High Commission. It reiterates that unexploded ordnance from WWII still exists, particularly along the Kokoda Track, Milne Bay, Rabaul, Bougainville, and East New Britain. The advisory also notes that homosexual activity is illegal and could result in arrest and imprisonment.
Département fédéral des affaires étrangères (DFAE)
Updated: 2026-02-23
The Swiss advisory advises against travel to certain parts of the country for tourism and non-urgent purposes due to significant and diverse risks. It highlights that the cohabitation of numerous ethnically diverse groups, many with historical animosities, creates social and political difficulties. A unique observation is that the political, economic, and social situation is very tense, with regular demonstrations, regional unrest, and violent political outbursts, particularly in Port Moresby and the Highlands.
The advisory specifically mentions severe unrest in Port Moresby and Lae on January 10, 2024, resulting in multiple deaths and injuries. It advises that in case of roadblocks or strikes, travelers should inquire locally about alternative travel options and wait for normalization, noting the embassy's difficulty in assisting Swiss citizens to exit affected regions. It also points out supply difficulties, where daily necessities and fuel are not always available. The advisory cautions that former rebels retain considerable influence and weapons in central Bougainville, around the disused Panguna copper mine, and that the presence of foreigners there is undesirable.
The advisory specifically mentions severe unrest in Port Moresby and Lae on January 10, 2024, resulting in multiple deaths and injuries. It advises that in case of roadblocks or strikes, travelers should inquire locally about alternative travel options and wait for normalization, noting the embassy's difficulty in assisting Swiss citizens to exit affected regions. It also points out supply difficulties, where daily necessities and fuel are not always available. The advisory cautions that former rebels retain considerable influence and weapons in central Bougainville, around the disused Panguna copper mine, and that the presence of foreigners there is undesirable.
Regjeringen (Norway)
Updated: 2026-04-27
Nederland Wereldwijd (Netherlands)
Updated: 2026-05-25
Viaggiare Sicuri (Italy)
Updated: 2026-03-03
The Italian advisory strongly discourages non-essential travel to Papua New Guinea, citing precarious security conditions due to extremely high criminality and inefficient local security forces. It explicitly states that the country is dangerous everywhere. A unique insight is the mention of local administrative elections and national by-elections between May and August 2025 in several constituencies, warning of possible sudden episodes of violence during these periods. It also notes that local communities can block the Kokoda Trail without notice.
The advisory provides specific details on the climate, noting the equatorial/tropical zone with a rainy season from December to May and a dry season from May to October. It gives average temperatures for the coast and Highlands and mentions the local currency, Kina (PGK), with an exchange rate of 1 euro = 2.65 kina as of October 2024. It also highlights that over 75% of the population does not participate in the market economy. For telecommunications, it notes that Digicel is the most used mobile operator and covers many villages, unlike Bmobile, and that Italian phones cannot be used due to lack of roaming agreements. The advisory uniquely mentions the PNG Digital Arrival Card (DAC) replacing paper forms from October 1, 2025, and the PGK 50 'ecological tax' upon departure.
The advisory provides specific details on the climate, noting the equatorial/tropical zone with a rainy season from December to May and a dry season from May to October. It gives average temperatures for the coast and Highlands and mentions the local currency, Kina (PGK), with an exchange rate of 1 euro = 2.65 kina as of October 2024. It also highlights that over 75% of the population does not participate in the market economy. For telecommunications, it notes that Digicel is the most used mobile operator and covers many villages, unlike Bmobile, and that Italian phones cannot be used due to lack of roaming agreements. The advisory uniquely mentions the PNG Digital Arrival Card (DAC) replacing paper forms from October 1, 2025, and the PGK 50 'ecological tax' upon departure.
BMEIA (Austria)
Updated: 2026-03-02
0404 (Korea)
Updated: 2026-04-22
Ministry for Foreign Affairs (Finland)
Updated: 2026-03-04
The Finnish advisory notes that the risk of crime is very high and there is a threat of natural disasters and political unrest. It emphasizes that the political and general security situation is unstable, and travelers should familiarize themselves with the local situation in each locality and make necessary security arrangements. A unique insight is the advice to contact local authorities or the Honorary Consulate of Finland when making travel plans, as the security situation varies greatly by region.
The advisory specifically warns travelers on the highway between Lae and Nadzab Airport to exercise particular caution. It highlights that public transport is unreliable, and road conditions are generally poor. It also mentions that Papua New Guinea is in a seismically active area, with earthquakes and tsunamis possible, particularly on the northern coast. Health information notes that malaria is common, especially during the rainy season (November to April), and that dengue fever occurs particularly in coastal areas. It also mentions that homosexuality is criminalized and public displays of affection may result in imprisonment.
The advisory specifically warns travelers on the highway between Lae and Nadzab Airport to exercise particular caution. It highlights that public transport is unreliable, and road conditions are generally poor. It also mentions that Papua New Guinea is in a seismically active area, with earthquakes and tsunamis possible, particularly on the northern coast. Health information notes that malaria is common, especially during the rainy season (November to April), and that dengue fever occurs particularly in coastal areas. It also mentions that homosexuality is criminalized and public displays of affection may result in imprisonment.
Important: This is an aggregated summary from multiple government sources. Always consult official government travel advisory websites before making travel decisions.
About Travel Advisories for Independent State of Papua New Guinea
This comprehensive travel advisory page for Independent State of Papua New Guinea aggregates official government warnings and recommendations from eight major international sources. Each country's foreign affairs department maintains its own travel advisory system based on unique assessment criteria, intelligence gathering, and diplomatic considerations.
The United States Department of State, Global Affairs Canada, UK Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), Australia's Smartraveller, France's Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs, Spain's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ireland's Department of Foreign Affairs, and Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs each provide independent assessments of travel risks to Independent State of Papua New Guinea.
By comparing these multiple perspectives, travelers can gain a more complete understanding of the current situation in Independent State of Papua New Guinea and make better-informed decisions about their travel plans. Remember to always check the official government websites directly before finalizing any travel arrangements.
Last updated: 2026-04-04