New Caledonia

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial 17 for police.
• Dial 15 for ambulance.
• Dial 16 for sea rescue.

Demonstrations 

Demonstrations occur occasionally.

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and other demonstrations. 
• Past demonstrations have turned violent. In May-August 2024, due to conflict over voting rights for non-Kanak residents, riots resulted in a subsequent state of emergency for that time period.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

Crime

Petty crime may occur in tourist areas. It includes pickpocketing and theft, vehicle break-ins, and opportunistic street crime. Violent crime is uncommon. 

• Passports and other valuables may be stolen if left unattended.
• Use caution in crowded areas and poorly lit locations.
• Police response times outside of Noumea may be limited. 

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.

Financial scams and internet romance scams are common in New Caledonia. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or claim local authorities want money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help.

Common scams include:

• Check deposit fraud
• Romance and online dating
• Credit card fraud
• Smishing and phishing
• Work permits and job offers
• Calling from an international number but hanging up before the target can answer, calling the number can have high per minute charges
• Pyramid schemes

If using dating apps or websites in New Caledonia: 

• Criminals may use dating apps to target potential victims for robbery or assault.
• Let your friends and family know where you are and consider sharing your location on your phone. 
• Meet in a popular public place.
• Tell your family or friends all the details about the person you are meeting and how you met them (which app).
• Set up and talk using a video call before agreeing to meet in person. 
• Avoid locations where you can be isolated, like hotel rooms, private apartments or houses.
• Never leave food or drinks unattended at a bar or restaurant.
• Observe the preparation of your food or drink order when possible.
• Refuse offers of food or drinks from strangers.
• Have a communication plan with friends or family. Send updates to them on an agreed schedule. 

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 17.

• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

The U.S. embassy can:

• Issue you a Travel Letter to return to the U.S. if you lose your passport. 
• Help you find medical care. 
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system. 
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home

Sexual assault and domestic violence

• U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy for assistance.
• U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy for assistance. 

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications. 
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.

Drones

Drones are allowed in New Caledonia with specific restrictions.

• Do not use drones at night.
• Do not fly over sensitive locations, including military buildings, hospitals, public spaces in built-up areas, near airports or heliports, or above the city of Noumea.
• Respect the privacy of others. Do not use any footage for commercial gain.
• It is illegal to use drones or to take photos and videos of the following areas:
  • Public spaces (museums, parks, streets)
  • Urban areas
  • Airports
  • Military bases
  • Prisons
  • Nuclear plants
  • Large gatherings such as concerts and parades
• Violators can be arrested and fined up to 75,000 euros or 1-year imprisonment.
• For a complete list of rules and restrictions, please refer to the Direction de la Sécurité de l’Aviation Civile.

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is regulated:

• Rules and safety inspections not uniformly followed or enforced by tour operators.  
• Beaches are not usually monitored by lifeguards. Strong currents and rip tides can occur. 
• Road conditions and road safety vary throughout the territory. 
• If you get injured, you can usually get medical help locally in large tourist areas, such as Noumea.  
• In rural areas, it might take longer for medical help to arrive and help or you may require transport to a larger area for medical services.  
• U.S. citizens are strongly encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance.  
• Travel insurance is mandatory. It must include coverage for medical expenses and emergency evacuation
• Review our information on Travel Insurance.  

Adventure travel

Hiking in the mountains during heavy rains can strand hikers. A charged cell phone with GPS location can help local police locate you by dialing 17. 

• Scuba diving and ATV excursions may not be supervised to U.S. standards.  Ask about safety precautions and use of safety gear, such as life jackets, seat belts, and helmets. 
• Research the tour operator ahead of time and assess your personal health condition against required physical abilities for the activity. 
• Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tips for Adventure Travel. 

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

• U.S. citizens must follow local laws.
• If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.
  
• Travelers who accidentally break local laws have been detained. Sometimes, this can be for a long time. They may also face criminal charges and even be convicted of a crime.
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Before you start a business or a profession in New Caledonia seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required. 

Illegal drugs and weapons

• Do not bring illegal drugs to New Caledonia. Fines for bringing in marijuana or cannabis (including cannabinoid products) can be as much as 7.5 million euros. You may be arrested and detained for long periods of time.
• It is illegal to bring guns, ammunition, and even spent shells or casings into New Caledonia without the proper permits arranged in advance. Fines range from 30,000 to 100,000 euros and you may be arrested and detained for long periods of time. 

Arrest notification

If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy in Fiji by e-mailing [email protected].  There are no immediate consular services available in New Caledonia.

Detention conditions

• Detainees in New Caledonia often can’t get their prescribed or over the counter medications. Detainees may also miss out on emergency and routine medical care.
• Lack of consular presence in New Caledonia makes it difficult to visit prisoners frequently.

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• They may be illegal according to local laws. 
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety. 
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States. 

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice

Faith-based travelers

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources: 

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

• There are no legal restrictions on consensual same-sex sexual relations, the provision of information or services to persons on the basis of real or perceived sexual orientation, or the organization of events focused on sexual orientation in New Caledonia. 
• Outside of main tourist areas, there may be more conservative attitudes.
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

The law in New Caledonia prohibits discrimination against people with physical, sensory, psychosocial, intellectual or mental disabilities. The law is not enforced.

• The most common types of accessibility may include accessible facilities, information, communication, access to services, or ease of movement.
• Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication or information, and general infrastructure especially outside of Noumea. 
• For accessible transportation, consider private transportation options with confirmed accessibility for your specific needs.
• Accessibility is common in lodging at major resorts and public attractions in Noumea.
• General public sentiment around disability is that care for disabled persons falls heavily on the family or community.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad.  

Women travelers 

• Review our information for Women Travelers.
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Human rights

Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

Health

Health resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) New Caledonia Traveler Information 
• CDC Medical Tourism information
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency phone numbers

• Dial 15 for emergency medical services.  

Ambulance services

Ambulance services are readily available in Noumea.  Training and response time is generally good.

• Ambulances are not widely available outside of Noumea.
• Injured or very ill travelers might prefer to take a taxi or their own car to the nearest major hospital when outside of Noumea. This option can be faster than waiting for an ambulance.

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses abroad.  Most U.S. plans do not.

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is not free in New Caledonia. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• Lack of payment may bar future travel to New Caledonia.
• Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments.
• Credit card payment is not always available.
• Most hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment.
• Private hospitals often need payment up front or proof of good insurance before providing treatment or admitting a patient.
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

If you purchase supplemental insurance, you are responsible for seeking reimbursement from the insurance provider. Follow their instructions for filing claims.

Vaccinations

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities

Health facilities are available throughout the country. However, major hospitals are only located in Noumea. It may be harder to find adequate health care in rural areas.

• The U.S. embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
• Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies. 
• Private hospitals and doctors often require payment upfront prior to service or admission, public hospitals do not.
• Before agreeing to any medical care, travelers should gather full details on billing, pricing, and proposed medical procedures.  
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.
• Generally, in public hospitals only minimal staff is available overnight in non-emergency wards. Consider hiring a private nurse. Another option is to have family stay the night with the patient, especially a child.
• Patients must cover all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in larger cities.
• Hospital-based care is only available through government institutions.

Prescription medications

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.

• Check with the Federal Office of Public Health to ensure the medication is legal in New Caledonia.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States.  If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

For more information:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Food and Drug Administration

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and surrogacy

If you are considering traveling to New Caledonia to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad.

• Surrogacy is illegal for foreigners in New Caledonia.  For additional information, visit the Government of New Caledonia website.
• If you decide to pursue parenthood in New Caledonia via ART with a surrogate, consider hiring a reputable local attorney and be prepared for long and unexpected delays with local authorities while documenting your child’s birth or citizenship status.
• People who try to avoid local law risk legal consequences.  

Water quality and food safety

• Tap water is generally safe to drink and use in cooking.
• In rural areas, tap water is not safe to drink, especially after heavy rain.
• In some locations, tap water is not available every day.
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact.
• Many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested.
• You may want to request no ice in your drinks since it may be made using tap water.
• Eating uncooked vegetables and fruits can make you sick.
• Make water safe by filtering, boiling, disinfecting, or distilling.
• Impure water can cause diseases like typhoid, cholera, hepatitis, and dysentery.

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad.

• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.
• For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.

Transportation

Road conditions and safety

Roads in New Caledonia are generally well maintained, except in remote areas.

• Roads leading into and out of Nouméa may be closed during periods of civil unrest.
• Animals and pedestrians walking in the road make night driving on unlit secondary roads hazardous.
• Emergency and roadside assistance may be more limited outside Nouméa and other major areas.
• If you are driving outside main population centers, consider carrying a spare tire, basic tools, water, a charged phone, and extra fuel when practical.

Traffic laws

For stays under 6 months, a valid U.S. driver’s license is enough if accompanied by an official French translation or an International Driving Permit (IDP).

• Driving under the influence of alcohol is illegal in New Caledonia.
• Use of seat belts is required by law.
• Driving culture is generally orderly, but travelers should use caution, especially at night and on secondary roads.
• Obey speed limits and traffic signals, and watch for pedestrians, animals, bicycles, and scooters, particularly outside Nouméa.
• You should carry your passport, driver’s license, rental papers, and insurance documents when driving.

Taxis and ride-shares

Taxis are available in Noumea and at the airports. They are generally a practical option for travelers. Taxis are metered and usually only accept cash.

• Ride-share services are limited. Local app-based or private-driver services may be available, but major U.S.-based services such as Uber are not the standard option.
• Consider using officially marked taxis, airport taxis, hotel-arranged taxis, or pre-booked drivers when possible.
• During periods of civil unrest, taxis and local transport may be disrupted. Roadblocks can affect airport access and travel around Nouméa.

Public and commercial transportation

Taxis and buses are available in Noumea and some of the larger towns. Watch your personal belongings while on public transportation to avoid pickpocketing.

• Public transportation in New Caledonia consists mainly of city buses in Nouméa and Greater Nouméa and interurban coaches on Grande Terre.
• There are no trains or metros.
• Buses and coaches are generally a practical option, but service may be more limited outside Noumea.
• Water taxis are an option for traveling between islands or around the lagoons.
• During periods of civil unrest, public and commercial transportation may become unavailable without warning. Roadblocks can disrupt bus, shuttle, and airport access.
• Visit the website of New Caledonia’s national tourist office and national authority responsible for road safety.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad. 

Aviation safety oversight

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed New Caledonia for compliance with international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA’s website includes more information on its assessment program.

Maritime travel

Mariners and passengers planning travel to New Caledonia should check the following: 

• U.S. Maritime Advisories
• U.S. Maritime Alerts
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings  
• U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Commons

Weather and natural disasters

Weather conditions

Cyclones 

• Cyclone season is November to May with the highest risks of the storms in February to April.

Earthquakes

• New Caledonia lies near the Pacific Ring of Fire and can experience earthquakes and tsunamis.

Bushfires

• Bushfires can occur during the dry season from September to February. 

U.S. citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.

Embassies and consulates