Tuvalu

Safety and security

Emergency numbers

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

• Dial 911 or +688-20725 for Tuvalu Police Force (Civil Aviation Authority Vaiaku, Funafuti).
• Dial 999 for ambulance.
• Dial 911 for toll-free domestic violence hotline. 

Crime

Tuvalu has a low crime rate.

• Petty crimes like pickpocketing or bag-snatching are rare but can happen.
• Review your own personal security practices.
• Stay alert to any unusual activity around homes or businesses.
• Report any suspicious incidents to local police authorities.

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.

• Internet romance scams are common in Tuvalu.
• Scams in Tuvalu generally fall into two categories: international cyber fraud that falsely appears to originate from the country, and standard global online scams targeting residents and foreigners alike. 
• Overall, the risk of direct financial fraud within Tuvalu itself is low, given its small cash-based economy.

Common scams include:

• Unsolicited package ("brushing") scams: Online shoppers worldwide have reported receiving unsolicited, cheap packages in the mail with return addresses from "Funafuti, Tuvalu." These are often connected to international brushing scams. Fraudulent sellers send cheap items to random addresses to get fake positive reviews and increase their e-commerce ratings.
• Telecom and rogue dialer fraud: Tuvalu has occasionally been linked to international premium-rate phone scams. Malware or rogue dialers secretly force victims’ computers to call high-cost phone numbers abroad. The scammer is almost never located on the islands; rather, these schemes exploit offshore telecom numbers in remote nations like Tuvalu to inflate international call-routing charges.
• General fraud vulnerabilities: Because the local economy depends on cash and direct person-to-person transfers; the most common scams include standard global internet, lottery, or advance-fee scams that require victims to wire funds.
• Visitor and payment security: For travelers visiting or businesspeople, the primary fraud risk involves international credit card transactions that lack 3D Secure (3DS) authentication.

If using dating apps or websites in Tuvalu: 

• 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).
• Arrange 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 911.

Review our information for Victims of Crime.

The U.S. embassy or consulate can:

• Replace a stolen or lost 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 an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need. 

Sexual assault and domestic violence

U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy and local law enforcement for assistance.

U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy and local law enforcement 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.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.

Drones

Drones are allowed in Tuvalu. However you must follow specific safety rules.

Contact the Pacific Aviation Safety Office (PASO) or Tuvalu's Civil Aviation Authority at +688-20725 for the most current information before traveling.

GPS

Prior to using GPS abroad:

• The fastest path may not be the safest.
• GPS positioning is reliable in Tuvalu; however, limited internet 

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is not well regulated:

• Safety inspections for equipment and facilities are rare.
• Dangerous areas and activities are not always marked with signs. The outer coasts of the atolls have very strong, dangerous currents.
• The Funafuti lagoon is considered highly polluted; swimming is not recommended there.
• Staff may not be trained or certified.
• Medical facilities are very limited. Severe cases may require expensive medical evacuation to Fiji. Fresh water shortages can occur.
• First responders cannot reach remote areas in case of emergencies.
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance.
• Review our information on Travel Insurance.

Adventure travel

Tuvalu is extremely remote with minimal infrastructure. It has a fragile, low-lying ecosystem.

• Accommodation options are limited, and very few offer air conditioning.
• Air transport options are limited, with only a few flights per week, typically from Fiji.
• 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. The population is small and polite. Respecting local customs is important.

• 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 Tuvalu seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.

Arrest notification

If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy or consulate in Fiji immediately.

Detention conditions

Due to a lack of consular presence in Tuvalu, the U.S. embassy cannot conduct routine prison visits.

• In Tuvalu, the jail is on Fongafale islet on Funafuti.
• A detention facility may not provide you with essential medications or medical care. 

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• Counterfeit offenses in Tuvalu are primarily prosecuted under the Tuvalu Penal Code and applicable civil intellectual property laws.
• Criminal penalties generally include fines up to $100 or imprisonment of up to 2 months for copyright infringement, along with court-mandated forfeiture and destruction of the illegal merchandise.
• 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.
• Counterfeit goods intercepted at the border by Tuvalu Customs are subject to immediate detention and forfeiture. The goods are typically turned over to the authorities to be destroyed.

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

Tuvalu is a remote Pacific nation with a deeply traditional, conservative, and Christian-influenced culture. Discretion is advised.

• Sexual conduct between males is illegal, with maximum penalties of seven to 14 years’ imprisonment
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

The law in Tuvalu prohibits discrimination against people with physical, sensory, psychosocial, intellectual or mental disabilities. The law is enforced.

Accessibility is limited across public transportation, lodging, communication/information services, and general infrastructure.

• Specialized services are limited. Hospitals are heavily concentrated on the main island of Funafuti.

Disability support and organizations

Organizations like the Fusi Alofa Association and the Tuvalu Red Cross Society (located on Fogafale Road, Funafuti) offer support for people with disabilities. They have advocacy, safe spaces, and access to spare parts or volunteer technicians for wheelchair repairs.

Professional wheelchair repair services are very hard to find in Tuvalu because of its remote location and limited medical supply chains. Contact these organizations before you travel.

• 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) Tuvalu Traveler Information 
• CDC Medical Tourism information
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency phone numbers

• Dial 911 for emergency medical services. 

Ambulance services

Ambulance services are not widely available. Training and response time of emergency responders may be poor.

• Ambulances lack advanced medical equipment.
• Injured or very ill travelers may find it faster to take a taxi or a private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance.

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses coverage 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 Tuvalu. 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 Tuvalu.
• Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments.
• Credit card payment is not always available.
• Most hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment.
• Public 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

Health risks

• Limited Care: Medical facilities are extremely limited.
• Diseases: Dengue fever is a risk, requiring precautions against mosquitoes.
• Leptospirosis: Risk from contaminated water or contact with animal waste.
• Marine Hazards: Strong currents exist on the outer coasts, and coral reefs are sharp.

Healthcare facilities

Health facilities are limited in Tuvalu. There are eight health centers spread across the outer islands of Tuvalu, each typically staffed by a nurse and a midwife.

• Dial 688-20480 for Princess Margaret Hospital, Te Auala O Fongafale, Vaiaku, Funafuti.
• Lofeagai Health Center and Tekavatoetoe Health Center are in Funafuti, supporting the main 
• hospital.We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

What to expect at health facilities

• Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies.
• Hospitals and doctors require payment upfront prior to service or admission.
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.
• Patients must cover all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
• Serious medical problems are referred to health professionals and hospitals in Fiji, Australia, or New Zealand. Medical evacuations to Fiji or Australia easily exceed 100,000 USD. Securing comprehensive travel health insurance that includes medical evacuation is highly recommended.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in larger cities.

Prescription medications

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

• Contact the Tuvalu Ministry of Health and Social Welfare at +688 20480 to ensure the medication is legal in Tuvalu.
• Access to pharmaceuticals is quite limited in Tuvalu. You must bring your own supply of essential medications.
• Basic medications may be available over the counter in Funafuti. However, specialized drugs, specific brands, or rare items can be hard to find or may run out.
• Tuvalu strictly prohibits the importation of illegal drugs, illicit narcotics, and unauthorized controlled substances.
• Prescription medications, particularly opioids, benzodiazepines, and medical cannabis, must be declared upon arrival. To avoid confiscation, carry valid medical documentation and ensure all medicines remain in their original packaging.

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

Non-traditional medicine

U.S. citizens have had serious complications or died while getting care from non-traditional “healers” and practitioners in Tuvalu.

We strongly recommend against participating in these practices in Tuvalu. Make sure you have access to licensed emergency medical facilities in such cases. 

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and Surrogacy

• Surrogacy is practically non-existent in Tuvalu.
• The country has no established legal framework, medical infrastructure, or fertility clinics to support assisted reproductive technologies (ART) or surrogacy arrangements.
• Tuvaluan laws do not address surrogacy. It is legally unregulated and unavailable locally.

Water quality and food safety

Severe water shortages can occur and fresh water is limited. The main island's (Fongafale) lagoon is highly polluted. There is poor waste management and garbage on the shores. In many areas, tap water is not safe to drink.

• 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

The main island of Funafuti has a single paved road that runs nearly the length of the atoll.

• Secondary roads on the outer islands are unpaved.
• Road surfaces can be in poor condition. Many roads are narrow and poorly lit.
• Driving at night is hazardous due to poor lighting, as well as pedestrians and animals, like stray dogs, on the road.
• Traffic moves on the left side of the road.

Traffic laws

Obtain an International Driver’s Permit before traveling to Tuvalu.

• Driving while intoxicated is illegal and punishable by fine or imprisonment.
• Exercise caution. Traffic tends to move slowly.

Taxis and ride-shares

There are no taxis in Tuvalu. Visitors can rent a car or a motor scooter. While these are generally safe options, dogs sometimes chase motor scooters. 

Public and commercial transportation

• Tuvalu has no structured public transport network.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad. 

Aviation safety oversight

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

Maritime travel

Maritime travel to Tuvalu is limited. As of 2026, you must travel first to Fiji and then book specialized transport. There is no regular commercial passenger ship service from international destinations.

Mariners and passengers planning travel to Tuvalu should check the following: 

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

The U.S. Coast Guard determined Tuvalu ports do not have effective anti-terrorism measures. Vessels that arrive in U.S. ports from Tuvalu ports must meet additional U.S. Coast Guard conditions of entry as described in the current Port Security Advisory, International Port Security Program - Port Security Advisory. Mariners and passengers in Tuvalu ports should be careful and use stronger security measures.

Weather and natural disasters

Weather conditions

The islands are subject to potential cyclones, earthquakes, and tsunamis.

Wet season

• Tropical cyclone season from November to May can bring heavy rain and flooding.
• Because flights are infrequent, locals often use the Funafuti airport runway as a public space for walking and recreation in the afternoon.
• From November to April. This period is characterized by heavier downpours, high humidity, and the occasional risk of tropical storms or gales.

Dry season

• From May to October. Cooler Easterly trade winds make the climate feel slightly more refreshing despite the persistent tropical warmth. Showers still occur, but the overall precipitation drops significantly.

Floods

• Tuvalu is vulnerable to rising sea levels, high tides, and increased saltwater intrusion.

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