Moving to Fiji

Moving Guide

Visa & Residence

Navigating the visa and residence process for Fiji depends significantly on your nationality and the purpose of your move. Citizens from certain countries, particularly those within the European Union, may have different initial entry and short-stay allowances compared to non-EU nationals. However, for long-term stays, everyone will generally need to secure a specific permit.

Typical routes for obtaining a long-term stay permit include:

• Work Permit: If you have secured employment with a Fijian company, your employer will usually sponsor your application. This often requires proof of your qualifications and the necessity of your role.
• Family Permit: If you are joining a spouse or immediate family member who is a Fijian citizen or a resident permit holder, you may apply under family reunion categories.
• Study Permit: For those enrolled in an accredited educational institution in Fiji, a student permit will be required.
• Residence Permit: For individuals seeking to reside in Fiji without immediate employment or family ties, there are often specific criteria related to financial independence or investment.

It is crucial to verify the most current requirements, application procedures, and necessary documentation directly with the official Fijian immigration authorities or their embassy/consulate in your home country. Regulations can change, and official sources will provide the most accurate and up-to-date information for your specific situation.

Housing & Rental

Finding housing in Fiji can be an exciting part of your relocation, with options ranging from city apartments to coastal homes. The most common ways to find housing include:

• Online Portals: Several local real estate websites list properties for rent. These are often the first stop for many expats.
• Real Estate Agents: Engaging a local real estate agent can be very beneficial. They have knowledge of the market, can arrange viewings, and assist with negotiations and paperwork.
• Word-of-Mouth & Local Networks: Once you arrive, tapping into expat communities or local networks can sometimes uncover properties not widely advertised.

The typical rental process involves:

• Viewing Properties: Arrange to see several properties to get a feel for what's available and what suits your needs.
• Lease Agreement: Once you find a suitable property, you will sign a lease agreement, which outlines the terms of your tenancy, including rent amount, duration, and responsibilities. It's advisable to have a clear understanding of all clauses before signing.
• Deposits: A security deposit, usually equivalent to one or two months' rent, is standard. This is held against potential damages and is typically refundable at the end of your tenancy, provided the property is returned in good condition. You may also be required to pay the first month's rent in advance.

Consider temporary accommodation upon arrival, such as a serviced apartment or guesthouse, to allow yourself time to explore different neighborhoods and secure a long-term rental without pressure.

What Affects the Cost of Your Move

The overall cost of your move to Fiji is influenced by several key factors, making each relocation unique. Understanding these elements can help you budget effectively:

• Volume of Goods: The more belongings you choose to ship, the higher the cost. This is often measured in cubic meters or by weight.
• Distance: The geographical distance between your current location and Fiji significantly impacts shipping costs.
• Seasonality: Moving during peak seasons can sometimes lead to higher demand and potentially increased prices for shipping and related services.
• Access at Origin and Destination: Ease of access for removal vehicles at both your current home and your new home in Fiji can affect labor costs. Difficult access (e.g., narrow streets, multiple flights of stairs, remote locations) may require specialized equipment or additional handling.
• Mode of Transport: Air freight is considerably faster but more expensive than sea freight. The choice depends on your urgency and budget.
• Extra Services: Additional services such as professional packing and unpacking, specialized crating for fragile items, storage solutions, and comprehensive insurance will add to the total cost.

For an accurate and personalized estimate, exact prices will come from a free quote tailored to your specific moving needs.

Timeline & Packing Tips

A well-organized timeline, typically starting 4-8 weeks before your move, can significantly reduce stress and ensure a smoother transition to Fiji. Here's a checklist-style guide:

8 Weeks Before:

• Declutter & Inventory: Start going through your belongings. Decide what to keep, sell, donate, or discard. Create a preliminary inventory list.
• Research & Quotes: Begin researching relocation services and request free quotes based on your inventory.
• Visa & Immigration: Reconfirm your visa and residence permit application status and gather any outstanding documents.
• Important Documents: Consolidate all vital documents (passports, birth certificates, marriage certificates, medical records, financial statements, academic transcripts) in a secure, easily accessible folder.

6 Weeks Before:

• Book Services: Confirm your chosen relocation service and finalize dates.
• Medical Check-ups: Schedule any necessary medical check-ups for yourself and your family. Obtain prescriptions and ensure you have enough medication for the initial period in Fiji.
• School/Work Notifications: Inform schools of your child's withdrawal and notify your current employer of your departure.

4 Weeks Before:

• Utilities & Subscriptions: Start notifying utility companies (electricity, gas, water, internet, phone) of your move-out date. Cancel or transfer subscriptions (magazines, gym memberships).
• Mail Forwarding: Arrange for mail forwarding to your new address or a trusted contact.
• Pack Essentials: Begin packing non-essential items. Label boxes clearly with contents and destination room.

2 Weeks Before:

• Confirm Travel: Finalize flight bookings and accommodation for your arrival in Fiji.
• Pet Arrangements: If moving with pets, confirm all veterinary and travel arrangements.
• Pack Valuables & Essentials Bag: Pack a separate bag with essentials for your journey and the first few days in Fiji (documents, toiletries, change of clothes, medications, chargers).

1 Week Before:

• Final Utilities: Take final meter readings for utilities.
• Clean Out: Start cleaning your current home.
• Confirm with Relocation Service: Touch base with your relocation service for final confirmations.

Moving Day:

• Supervise: Be present to supervise the packing and loading process.
• Final Walk-through: Do a final walk-through of your empty home.

To get started on your stress-free move to Fiji, request a free quote on relocation123.com today.

Visas, immigration & documents

Moving to this country often involves visas, residence permits, document translation/legalization and customs paperwork. Our verified partners handle the move itself; for visa or immigration help, send the request below and we'll point you the right way.

• Residence permit / visa (work, study, family)
• Document translation & apostille
• Customs clearance for personal effects
• Travel & goods insurance

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Customs & Import Rules

Moving to Fiji: Your Essential Customs & Import Guide

Relocating to Fiji is an exciting adventure! To help ensure a smooth transition, understanding the customs and import regulations for your personal belongings is crucial. This guide provides a clear overview of what you need to know.

If you're relocating as a new resident or returning Fijian citizen

Whether you're a non-citizen moving to Fiji with an employment or residence visa, or a Fijian citizen returning after more than 12 months abroad, you may be eligible for duty exemption on your used personal and household goods.

What you'll need

• AWB or OBL (Seaway Bill is recommended)
• Color copy of your passport ID page
• Inventory of goods in English (original not required)
• Tax Identification Number (TIN) (apply at www.frcs.org.fj)
• Completed CE111 or unaccompanied baggage form from Fiji Revenue Customs Services (www.frcs.org.fj)
• For non-Fijian citizens: Visa grant letter or visa stamp in passport (check www.immigration.gov.fj)

Good to know

• All household and personal effects will undergo Biosecurity inspection and Customs examination, with associated fees.
• Devices such as televisions, fridges, freezers, and drones may require an import license or permit before arrival.
• Processed food can be imported in limited quantities, provided it has English labels and clear expiry dates.

Diplomatic moves

Diplomats are eligible for duty-free entry of personal used items.

What you'll need

• FA608 form completed by the local Embassy and submitted to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for approval
• OBL or AWB (Seaway Bill is recommended)
• Color copy of your passport ID page
• Inventory of goods in English

Good to know

• Alcohol import is permitted for diplomats but is subject to an annual quota agreed upon by the local Ministry of Foreign Affairs and respective embassies.
• All goods are subject to Biosecurity examination and inspection fees.

Bringing special items

Vehicles

You may be eligible for an exemption on import duty for a used motor vehicle if you are a returning Fijian citizen who has owned the vehicle for over 12 months, or a non-citizen with an employment or residence visa who has owned the vehicle for over 12 months.

What you'll need

• Certificate of Ownership
• Applicant's passport ID page
• Tax ID
• JEVIC Report (for vehicles from Japan, Australia, New Zealand) or Certificate of EURO 4 certificate Cancellation + Export Certificate

Good to know

• Vehicles are subject to inspection and licensing by the Land Transport Authority (relocation123.com).

Alcohol & tobacco

For diplomats, alcohol import is allowed within an annual quota. For all other residents, standard duty and quantity limits will apply, which are not detailed here.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a Tax Identification Number (TIN) to import goods into Fiji?
Yes, a Tax Identification Number (TIN) is mandatory for importing goods. You can apply for one at www.frcs.org.fj.

Are all my household goods subject to inspection?
Yes, all household and personal effects entering Fiji are subject to Biosecurity inspection and Customs examination, and associated fees apply.

Can I import food items?
Processed food can be imported in limited quantities. Ensure all food items have English labels and clear expiry dates.

What if I'm bringing electronic devices like a TV or a drone?
Certain electronic devices and equipment, including televisions, fridges, freezers, and drones, may require an import license or permit before they can be brought into Fiji.

Is there a specific form I need to complete for my unaccompanied baggage?
Yes, you will need to complete a CE111 or unaccompanied baggage form, available from Fiji Revenue Customs Services (www.frcs.org.fj).

What are the requirements for importing a personal vehicle?
You generally need to have owned the vehicle for more than 12 months and provide a Certificate of Ownership, your passport ID, Tax ID, and a JEVIC Report or EURO 4 certificate/Export Certificate depending on the origin. The vehicle will also need inspection by the Land Transport Authority.

For personalized assistance with your move to Fiji, please contact relocation123.com.

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