Palau
Oceania • PLW
Last updated: October 25, 2026
Palau is an extraordinary Pacific island nation renowned for its pristine marine biodiversity and world-class diving sites. Visitors can explore lush tropical landscapes, subterranean limestone caves, and a unique environment protected by some of the world's strictest conservation laws.
Visa Requirements
Most tourists can enter Palau visa-free for up to 30 days, provided they have proof of onward travel.
Typically Required Documents
- Passport valid for at least six months
- Confirmed round-trip or onward flight ticket
- Proof of sufficient funds for the duration of the stay
- Completed Palau arrival form
Popular Attractions
Jellyfish Lake: This marine lake allows visitors to snorkel among millions of golden jellyfish that have lost their sting over time.
Rock Islands Southern Lagoon: A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring hundreds of limestone mushroom-shaped islands scattered throughout a turquoise lagoon.
The Milky Way: A stunning cove famous for its white limestone mud, which locals believe has rejuvenating properties for the skin.
Ngardmau Waterfall: The largest waterfall in Palau, located on the island of Babeldaob, requiring a scenic trek through the jungle to access.
Belau National Museum: Located in Koror, this museum provides deep insight into the history, traditions, and culture of Palauan society.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Respect the Palauan pledge, a mandatory eco-pledge stamped into passports to protect the environment.
Always remove your shoes before entering a Palauan home or traditional meeting house known as a bai.
Dress modestly when visiting villages or non-tourist areas to respect local cultural standards.
Ask for permission before taking photographs of local people or cultural artifacts.
Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon, as Palauan society maintains a conservative public demeanor.
Safety Tips
Always use a reputable tour operator when diving or snorkeling to ensure safety standards and expert guidance.
Stay hydrated and apply high-SPF sunscreen to combat the intense equatorial sun.
Be aware of strong currents in the ocean and always follow the instructions of your guides.
Keep your valuables secure in your hotel safe and avoid displaying large amounts of cash.
Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that includes emergency medical evacuation.
AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.
Polio
Source: CDC
Vaccination is recommended for travelers with potential exposure.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
No yellow fever vaccination requirements for travelers entering Palau.
View sourceMeasles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)
Source: CDC
All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the MMR vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to Palau.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Palau. Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.
View sourceCore Vaccines
Routine vaccines (MMR, DTaP, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccinations before travel to protect against vaccine-preventable diseases.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, Polio, etc.)
Source: CDC
Ensure you are up-to-date on routine vaccinations before travel.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, Polio, Influenza, Varicella)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up-to-date before travel.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTaP, polio, varicella, influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure you are up to date on routine vaccines before every trip.
View sourceInsect bite prevention (permethrin-treated clothing, DEET)
Source: CDC
To prevent diseases such as dengue and Zika, which are transmitted by mosquitoes.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures (repellent, nets)
Source: CDC
To reduce the risk of mosquito-borne diseases during travel.
View sourceTdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
Source: CDC
Routine vaccination is recommended for all travelers, especially adults.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
If traveling to small towns or rural areas and there are food/water safety concerns.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers to Palau due to the potential for food and waterborne illness.
View sourceMMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
Source: CDC
Routine vaccination, particularly for younger travelers and children.
View sourceRoutine vaccinations ( influenza, varicella)
Source: CDC
Maintain updated routine vaccinations for health protection.
View sourceMMR vaccine
Source: CDC
Before traveling, ensure all routine vaccinations are up-to-date.
View sourceTdap vaccine
Source: CDC
Ensure Tdap vaccination is current, especially for adults.
View sourceTyphoid vaccination
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.
Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book Typhoid fever vaccines licensed in the U.S.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers to protect against COVID-19 transmission during travel.
View sourceRabies pre-exposure vaccination
Source: CDC
Dogs infected with rabies are not commonly found in Palau. If rabies exposures occur while in Palau, rabies vaccines may only be available in larger suburban/urban medical facilities. Rabies pre-exposure vaccination considerations include whether travelers 1) will be performing occupational or recreational activities that increase risk for exposure to potentially rabid animals and 2) might have difficulty getting prompt access to safe post-exposure prophylaxis.
Please consult with a healthcare provider to determine whether you should receive pre-exposure vaccination before travel.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
For travelers involved in activities that may expose them to bats or other mammals.
View sourceFor Most Travelers
Food and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
Practice food and water safety to prevent traveler's diarrhea and other foodborne diseases.
Eat only food that is cooked and served hot; avoid raw fruits and vegetables that you cannot peel yourself.
View sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
Prevent diseases spread by insects (e.g., Dengue, Zika) by using repellent, wearing long-sleeved clothing, and staying in air-conditioned or screened-in rooms.
Use an EPA-registered insect repellent.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Considered for travelers who might have sexual contact with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have medical procedures.
View sourceFood and water safety
Source: CDC
Practice safe food and water precautions to prevent travelers' diarrhea and other foodborne diseases.
Eat only food that is cooked and served hot; drink bottled or disinfected water.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers due to the risk of exposure through food or water.
View sourceInsect Repellent (DEET)
Source: CDC
Recommended to prevent insect bites, especially in outdoor activities.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
To protect against COVID-19 transmission while traveling.
View sourceHepatitis B vaccine
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who may have sexual contact with local residents or require medical treatment.
View sourceTyphoid vaccine
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who may eat or drink in areas of risk of contaminated food and water.
View sourceHepatitis A vaccine
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers since Hepatitis A can be transmitted through food and water.
View sourceItinerary-Specific
Personal hygiene practices
Source: CDC
Good hygiene practices are always recommended to prevent infections.
View sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
Protection against mosquito-borne diseases is advised, particularly during evening hours.
View sourceBeach, pool and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
To prevent accidents and health issues related to water activities.
View sourceTravel health insurance
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers for emergencies and health coverage.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers engaging in activities that involve potential exposure to blood and bodily fluids.
View sourceCovid-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
Strongly recommended to prevent infection before travel.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Consider if the traveler plans to engage with animals, especially in rural areas.
View sourceRoutine vaccinations (such as seasonal flu)
Source: CDC
Assess based on personal health status before travel.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccine
Source: CDC
Ensure vaccination is completed prior to international travel for protection.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures (repellent, netting)
Source: CDC
Insect prevention is important due to potential diseases transmitted by mosquitoes.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers who might have sexual contact with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or undergo medical procedures.
View source