Overview
Nationals of Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu applying for a U.S. visa — tourist/business (B-1/B-2), student (F-1), immigrant, or other category — apply at the U.S. Embassy in Port Moresby. The embassy has jurisdiction over all three countries; applicants from Solomon Islands and Vanuatu may need to travel to Port Moresby or contact the embassy for instructions. None of the three countries are on the U.S. Visa Waiver Program. The embassy also provides consular services to U.S. citizens residing in or visiting Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu.
Visa Services
The embassy processes nonimmigrant and immigrant visas for nationals of Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu. Common categories include B-1/B-2 tourist/business, F-1 student, and J-1 exchange. Immigrant visas for family reunification are also handled here. Appointments are required and must be booked online via the embassy's website or the USTravelDocs portal.
Consular Services
The American Citizen Services (ACS) unit provides passport services, Consular Reports of Birth Abroad, notarial services, and emergency assistance to U.S. citizens in Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu. The ACS covers a large geographic area across the three Pacific island nations.
Trade & Export Support
The embassy supports U.S. trade and investment in Papua New Guinea, particularly in the significant liquefied natural gas (LNG) and mining sectors. U.S. companies active in energy and resources — including major LNG operators in PNG — are key stakeholders. The embassy assists with market access and commercial inquiries.
Investment Opportunities
Papua New Guinea holds substantial investment opportunities in LNG, mining, forestry, and fisheries. Solomon Islands and Vanuatu offer opportunities in sustainable tourism and marine resources. The embassy advises U.S. businesses on market entry conditions across the three countries.
Business Support
The embassy's Economic Section works with the governments of the three countries to improve the investment climate and supports U.S. companies navigating the complex local regulatory and operating environments, particularly in the resources and infrastructure sectors.
Cultural & Educational Programs
The Public Affairs section runs exchange programmes including the Young Pacific Leaders initiative, educational advising for Pacific students applying to U.S. universities, and cultural programmes across the region. Papua New Guinea's extraordinary biodiversity — the Kokoda Track, the Sepik River, and the Highlands — makes it one of the world's most distinctive adventure travel destinations.
Appointment Information
Appointments for all consular services and visa interviews must be booked online through the embassy website at pg.usembassy.gov. Applicants from Solomon Islands and Vanuatu should contact the embassy in advance for guidance on their application location.
Special Notes
The embassy at Harbour City, Port Moresby serves nationals of three Pacific nations: Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu. U.S. citizens travelling to any of the three countries should enrol in the STEP programme for emergency alerts. Papua New Guinea is a destination requiring thorough pre-travel preparation; consult the current U.S. State Department travel advisory before visiting.