Emergency Help Abroad – Fiji

Crime & Legal Awareness

A concise overview of the key laws, legal expectations and enforcement practices travellers should understand before visiting Fiji — including behaviours that may be acceptable in the UK but carry stricter penalties or different interpretations abroad.

1. STRICT DRUG, WEAPON & ALCOHOL LAWS

• Possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs leads to severe penalties including long imprisonment.

• Carrying weapons, including knives or sprays, without lawful justification is prohibited.

• Public drunkenness may attract police action, especially in towns and transport hubs.

• Drink-driving laws are enforced, with strict penalties.

• Attempting to bring illegal substances into the country results in immediate arrest.

2. RESPECT FOR CULTURE, PUBLIC MORALS & ENVIRONMENT

• Fiji has strong traditional customs — respectful behaviour is essential in villages.

• Modest dress is recommended when visiting local communities or religious sites.

• Littering in villages, beaches or natural areas can lead to fines.

• Damaging coral reefs, protected beaches or cultural sites is illegal.

• Public displays of affection may be frowned upon in rural areas.

3. PUBLIC BEHAVIOUR & CIVIL ORDER

• Police may request identification; keep your passport or a copy accessible.

• Petty theft can occur in urban centres — stay alert.

• Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or isolated areas.

• Participation in political gatherings or protests is discouraged for foreigners.

• Offering bribes to officials is illegal and taken seriously.

4. TRAVEL, TRANSPORT & ADMINISTRATIVE OFFENCES

• Road conditions vary; speeding, seatbelt and helmet rules are enforced.

• Using unlicensed taxis or boats can be unsafe — choose reputable providers.

• Inter-island boat safety varies; avoid overcrowded or poorly maintained vessels.

• Overstaying your visa or entry permit can lead to fines or detention.

• Driving without valid documentation or insurance is prohibited.

5. PHOTOGRAPHY, DRONE & SECURITY RESTRICTIONS

• Drone use requires permission and is banned in certain zones.

• Photography of military areas, police compounds or secure sites is prohibited.

• Some villages require permission before taking photos.

• Always ask before photographing people or ceremonies.

6. ENVIRONMENTAL & SAFETY LAWS

• Removing coral, shells or sand from beaches is illegal.

• Feeding marine life or touching coral reefs damages the ecosystem and may lead to penalties.

• Swimming in unpatrolled or rough waters can be dangerous.

• Hiking in prohibited areas or ignoring safety signage is discouraged.

• Lighting fires in protected zones may require authorisation.

7. RESPECT FOR NATURE, CULTURE & HERITAGE SITES

• Damaging archaeological sites or cultural monuments is illegal.

• Removing artefacts or historic items is strictly prohibited.

• Entering sacred sites without permission is forbidden.

• Buying souvenirs made from endangered species is illegal.

What You Shouldn’t Do - Behaviours Travellers Should Avoid.

These are important behaviours and actions to avoid to stay respectful, safe and aligned with local expectations. Remember that what feels easy-going or informal in the UK may be understood quite differently in Fiji.

• Don’t wear hats in villages, as this is reserved for chiefs.

• Don’t touch people’s heads, especially children.

• Don’t enter villages without covering shoulders and knees, unless you are clearly in a resort zone.

• Don’t swim over coral reefs without caution, as coral is fragile and easily damaged.

• Don’t take shells, coral or sand, which harms local ecosystems.

• Don’t litter on beaches or in the ocean, as marine debris is a major issue.

• Don’t walk onto private land, particularly near plantations or village areas.

• Don’t ignore cyclone warnings, especially between November and April.

• Don’t swim in strong currents, common in channels between islands.

• Don’t take photos of villagers without permission, especially in traditional settings.

• Don’t touch or feed wildlife, including reef fish and sea turtles.

• Don’t drink kava disrespectfully, and follow local etiquette when participating.

• Don’t assume public transport is frequent, especially between remote villages.

• Don’t rely solely on cards, as many local shops accept cash only.

• Don’t underestimate sun exposure, which is intense even on cloudy days.

• Don’t show excessive public affection, particularly in traditional areas.

• Don’t swim at night, when visibility and currents pose risks.

• Don’t treat sacred banyan trees lightly, as they hold cultural significance.

• Don’t ignore reef-safe sunscreen rules, where required.

• Don’t underestimate journey times between islands, which often require ferries or small planes.