Emergency Help Abroad – Vanuatu

Crime & Legal Awareness

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

1. STRICT DRUG, WEAPON & ALCOHOL LAWS

• Possession or trafficking of illegal drugs is taken very seriously, and penalties are severe.

• Carrying weapons, knives or military-style items without permission is illegal.

• Drink-driving is strictly enforced; penalties include fines, arrest and vehicle seizure.

• Public drunkenness or alcohol-related disorder can lead to police intervention.

• Supplying alcohol to minors or drinking in restricted areas may result in fines.

2. RESPECT FOR CULTURE, PUBLIC MORALS & ENVIRONMENT

• Vanuatu’s culture places strong emphasis on respect; inappropriate dress or behaviour — especially in villages — can cause serious offence.

• Many villages have their own rules (kastom) which must be respected; ignoring them may lead to conflict.

• Public indecency or offensive behaviour is prohibited.

• Littering or damaging beaches, natural pools or cultural sites may result in fines or community intervention.

• Removing cultural items, carvings or property from villages without permission is illegal.

3. PUBLIC BEHAVIOUR & CIVIL ORDER

• Violent crime, including robbery and assault, occurs in some urban areas — especially at night.

• Police may request identification — carry your passport or a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp.

• Avoid public demonstrations or political gatherings; they may attract unwanted attention.

• Street disputes or aggressive behaviour can escalate quickly in crowded areas.

• Theft is common in busy markets — keep valuables secure.

4. TRAVEL, TRANSPORT & ADMINISTRATIVE OFFENCES

• Driving without a valid licence or rental documentation is illegal.

• Road conditions vary widely — accidents must be reported to police.

• Travelling at night, especially on unlit rural roads, is not recommended due to safety risks.

• Using unlicensed taxis or informal transport is risky and may lead to disputes.

• Overstaying your visa or failing to comply with entry rules can result in fines or delays.

5. PHOTOGRAPHY, DRONE & SECURITY RESTRICTIONS

• Photographing people — especially in villages — requires permission out of respect for local customs.

• Drones require authorisation; unauthorised drone use may lead to confiscation or penalties.

• Avoid photographing police stations, government buildings or security facilities.

• Some cultural ceremonies, sacred places or tribal lands forbid photography entirely.

• Filming disputes, accidents or sensitive community events may cause offence or conflict.

6. ENVIRONMENTAL & SAFETY LAWS

• Removing coral, shells, stones or marine life from beaches and reefs is illegal.

• Wildlife feeding, especially in marine parks or natural reserves, is prohibited.

• Entering protected or kastom lands without permission may result in fines.

• Open fires on beaches or forested areas require permission and may be restricted.

• Ignoring safety advice near active volcanoes, hot springs or unstable cliffs can be life-threatening.

7. RESPECT FOR NATURE, CULTURE & HERITAGE SITES

• Climbing or disturbing sacred sites, ceremonial platforms or village structures is forbidden.

• Removing natural materials or artefacts from heritage areas is illegal.

• Damaging traditional buildings, carvings or community property is taken very seriously.

• Trespassing into village lands or cultural zones without approval can result in confrontation.

• Disregarding conservation rules in national parks or near volcanic zones may result in fines.

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 everyday or harmless in the UK may be understood quite differently in Vanuatu.

• Don’t buy, use or transport illegal drugs.

• Don’t disrespect kastom rules or village traditions.

• Don’t wear revealing clothing in villages or community spaces.

• Don’t walk alone at night in Port Vila or Luganville.

• Don’t use unlicensed taxis or informal transport.

• Don’t take photos of locals without permission.

• Don’t remove shells, coral or natural souvenirs from beaches.

• Don’t attempt to enter private or village land without permission.

• Don’t ignore active volcano warnings or safety advice.

• Don’t swim alone — currents and marine hazards can be dangerous.

• Don’t leave valuables visible in cars or accommodation.

• Don’t rely solely on card payments — cash is widely needed.

• Don’t drink untreated tap water unless advised it’s safe.

• Don’t engage in disputes — always stay calm and request help.

• Don’t film or photograph government or security buildings.

• Don’t hike alone in remote areas without a guide.

• Don’t drive after drinking — penalties are strict.

• Don’t show large amounts of cash in public.

• Don’t attempt to bribe officials or authorities.

• Don’t overstay your visa or ignore entry/exit stamp rules.