Travelling on a Solomon Islands passport
Holding a Solomon Islands passport puts you somewhere in the middle of the global travel hierarchy — not the easiest ride, not the hardest either. Ranked 32nd out of roughly 199 passports on the Henley Index, you've got visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 124 destinations before you've filled out a single form. That's a decent chunk of the world. But 56 countries still want full pre-arranged visas, which means planning ahead isn't optional — it's just part of how you travel.
What this passport unlocks
The 97 visa-free destinations are where this passport genuinely delivers. Europe's smaller territories open up nicely — Gibraltar and Andorra don't require anything beyond showing up, which surprises most people who assume European access is locked behind paperwork. Caribbean travel is solid too, with Antigua and Barbuda and The Bahamas both visa-free. Austria gives you a foothold into Schengen without pre-application, which is worth noting for anyone planning a European stretch. Beyond the visa-free list, 27 countries offer visa on arrival and 39 have e-Visa options, so you've got real flexibility if you're willing to do a bit of homework beforehand. The gap worth acknowledging honestly: places like Argentina and Algeria require full visa applications, so South American and North African routes need more lead time than you might expect.
Visa categories at a glance
Visa-free entry (97)
- Gibraltar
- Andorra
- Anguilla
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Austria
- The Bahamas
- Barbados
- Belgium
- Belize
- Bermuda
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Botswana
- ...and 85 more
Visa on arrival (27)
- Bangladesh
- Madagascar
- Papua New Guinea
- Burundi
- Cambodia
- Cape Verde Islands
- Comoro Islands
- Egypt
- Guinea-Bissau
- Iran
- Jordan
- Laos
- ...and 15 more
eTA / online authorisation (8)
- Canada
- Sri Lanka
- South Korea
- United Kingdom
- Seychelles
- Israel
- St. Kitts and Nevis
- Palestinian Territory
e-Visa available (39)
- Azerbaijan
- Benin
- Ethiopia
- Gabon
- Georgia
- India
- Kyrgyzstan
- Oman
- Pakistan
- Qatar
- São Tomé and Príncipe
- Taiwan (Chinese Taipei)
- ...and 27 more
Practical travel tips for Solomon Islands passport holders
The eTA and e-Visa distinction matters more than people realise. An eTA is usually quick — approved online before you fly, linked electronically to your passport. An e-Visa is a formal application with supporting documents and a wait time, just processed digitally rather than at a consulate window. Don't assume they're the same thing. For visa-on-arrival countries, carry passport photos and enough local or US currency to cover fees — card payments aren't always accepted at border counters. Always check if your transit airport requires a transit visa separately from your destination visa. Some connections through certain hubs can catch you off guard and result in denied boarding before you've even left home.
Frequently asked questions
How many countries can Solomon Islands passport holders visit without arranging a visa in advance?
Solomon Islands passport holders can visit 97 countries visa-free and an additional 27 countries with visa-on-arrival, totaling 124 countries without pre-arranged visas. This places Solomon Islands at rank #32 globally for passport strength.
What is the difference between visa-free travel, visa-on-arrival, and eTA?
Visa-free means you can enter and stay without any visa documentation; visa-on-arrival (VOA) allows you to obtain a visa upon arrival at the destination; and eTA (electronic travel authorization) is a pre-approved digital permit obtained online before travel. Solomon Islands passport holders have access to 8 eTA destinations and 39 e-visa countries requiring online applications before arrival.
What should I do if I'm denied entry or boarding with my Solomon Islands passport?
Request a detailed explanation in writing from the immigration or airline official, as denial reasons vary by country and circumstance. Contact your nearest Solomon Islands embassy or consulate immediately for assistance and guidance on next steps, including potential appeals or alternative travel arrangements.
How long should my Solomon Islands passport be valid for international travel?
Most countries require your passport to be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended date of departure, though some destinations may require longer validity. It's advisable to check specific requirements for each destination before booking travel.
How might visa policies for Solomon Islands passport holders change in the future?
Visa policies typically evolve based on factors like political stability, diplomatic relations, and reciprocity agreements between nations. Maintaining strong international relations and domestic stability can positively influence visa access, while geopolitical changes may result in new restrictions or expanded access to certain destinations.