Atuona is the Port of Entry.
A single, online form is now in use for all foreign pleasure yachts. See the French Polynesia Clearance page for full details.
It is no longer compulsory for all yachts visiting French Polynesia to visit Papeete Customs and Immigration to complete the clearing-in process or to email the customs with your documentation.
The Gendarmerie Nationale in Atuona can deal with Immigration and Customs formalities. They are reported to be friendly and efficient and are located in the town center, where you will also find the Post Office and Hospital.
Opening hours for clearance are reported to have changed, and are now only available in the morning:
(Previous opening hours were Mon-Sat: 0700-1200/1400-1700, Sunday: 0900-1200/1500-1700)
Ensure you have passports and boat information (registration number, radio call sign, MMSI number, sat phone number if you have one) and reference number from the online form.
The walk to the town takes approximately 30 minutes if you take the short cut, across the beach and up the hill. If it has been raining, this route can be very slippery underfoot so it's advisable to take the road instead, which will take an extra half an hour. There are no lights at night.
Last updated: May 2025
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