Kavieng - Clearance

Kavieng is a Port of Entry.  See Papua New Guinea Clearance Formalities for full details on clearing into and out of the country.

Clearance in Kavieng

This is a safer destination than Rabaul for clearing into or out of the country. Officials in Kavieng are reported to be very helpful and friendly and clearance here is a simple process.

Cruisers who have cleared in here recommend anchoring off the cruiser-friendly Nusa Resort and take a short water taxi ride to the town for clearance.

There are only two places to visit:

• First the Quarantine office (walking distance from the government dock where your dinghy is safe);
• Then the Customs/Immigration office (nestled on the 2nd floor in between two mini-marts in town) where your passports are stamped to start your e-visa (which must be obtained before departing from your previous country and costing less than US$50/pp).

Anyone planning to visit Kavieng by boat is asked to send their pre-arrival form at least 48 hours in advance  to the National Command Centre - NCC@customs.gov.pg.  Officials are happy to deal with visiting sailors directly by email.  This will often help speed up formalities as it allows them to prepare the necessary paperwork in advance.

Documents required on arrival include: Inward Clearance (outward clearance from last port), passports, general declaration, crew list and port call list.

On departure, ensure you have clearance papers for your next port (intra-port clearance).  If you are leaving PNG from Kavieng, you will need this document or risk a rather large fine for non-compliance.  For instance, if you intend to enter the country in Rabaul and leave from Kavieng, you would have to get an intra-port clearance from Rabaul to Kavieng.  See these cruiser reports for helpful information:

• Papua New Guinea:  Cruising the North Eastern Coast
• PNG - Do Your Homework for an Amazing Experience.

Last updated:  October 2025