--- title: Moving to Kiribati: Visas, Costs & Immigrant Guide description: Moving to Kiribati can be suitable for individuals and families looking for a distinct lifestyle in Oceania. This guide is for those exploring pathways such as image: https://migrantiq.com/og/default.png --- Skip to content Advertisement728 × 90AdSense zone Kiribati flag [/_next/image/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fflagcdn.com%2Fw80%2Fki.png&w=3840&q=75] MOVING TO KIRIBATI: VISAS, COST OF LIVING & IMMIGRANT GUIDE Kiribati flag [/_next/image/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fflagcdn.com%2Fw320%2Fki.png&w=3840&q=75] Moving to Kiribati: this free immigrant guide covers cost of living, visa options, banking, healthcare, laws, and settlement steps for living in Kiribati. Always confirm rules on the official immigration portal. Immigration rules and fees change frequently. Confirm current requirements on official government or embassy websites. Moving to Kiribati can be suitable for individuals and families looking for a distinct lifestyle in Oceania. This guide is for those exploring pathways such as work, study, family reunification, or tourism. Understanding the first 90 days after arrival is important for a easier move, as you will need to manage visa requirements, housing, and local services. Kiribati offers a rich cultural experience and natural beauty, so adequate preparation for your relocation is essential. \n\nAs you plan your move, consider the local environment, including limited healthcare access and the importance of a support network. Familiarizing yourself with local customs and the community can ease your adjustment. If you are coming for work or to join family, having the correct visa and understanding the local context will help you settle in Kiribati. Last updated 2026-05-17Official immigration portal ↗ [https://www.mfa.gov.ki/] Review due soon MigrantIQ research desk [/about/editorial/]3 min readData confidence: 82/100 7 published visa guides Save to planner Verify before you move MigrantIQ provides general migration information, not legal advice. Always verify critical steps with official government sources or a licensed advisor before paying fees or submitting documents. Terms [/terms/]Privacy [/privacy/]Report an issue [/contact/] AT A GLANCE: LIVING IN KIRIBATI Quick signals for cost of living, salary, healthcare, and safety before you dig into visas and settlement. Capital Tarawa Region Oceania (Micronesia) Currency AUD Cost of Living Index N/A Net Monthly Salary 300 Healthcare Universal/Beveridge Safety Index N/A Rent Index N/A Quality Index N/A COST OF LIVING IN KIRIBATI Specific cost of living and rent indexes for Kiribati are not available. However, the typical net monthly salary is around 300 AUD, which can serve as a rough benchmark for budgeting. Costs may vary significantly based on your location within Kiribati, especially between urban areas like Tarawa and rural settings. Research local prices for housing, food, and other essentials to create a complete budget for your move. KIRIBATI COUNTRY PROFILE In-depth facts & data for living in Kiribati on this page· Updated 2026-06-02 8 sections A remote country of 33 scattered coral atolls, Kiribati has few natural resources and is one of the least developed Pacific Island countries. Commercially viable phosphate deposits were exhausted by the time of independence from the United Kingdom in 1979. Earnings from fishing licenses and seafarer remittances are imp… Demographics & populationPopulation size, age structure, migration, ethnicity, language, education, and health indicatorsEconomyGDP, employment, industries, public finance, and currencyGovernment & politicsGovernment structure, legal system, citizenship, and international relationsGeography & environmentLocation, land area, terrain, climate, and natural resourcesTradeImports, exports, and trading partnersTravel & safetySafety, crime, medical care, and travel conditions for visitors and newcomersInfrastructureTransport, communications, and energyNational symbolsAnthem and national symbols For planning only. Always verify immigration and legal rules on official government sites. DEMOGRAPHICS & POPULATION IN KIRIBATI: PLANNING NOTES 215 words of country-specific briefing for moving to Kiribati. Figures that affect visas or tax should still be checked on official sites. Demographics & population in Kiribati for people weighing a move, not a tourist recap. The notes below use Kiribati-specific planning fields. Detailed profile figures sit in the Key facts section under this topic. Kiribati sits in Micronesia, Oceania, with Tarawa as the capital. Common working and school languages in the dataset include I-Kiribati and English (official). English proficiency is listed as medium. Population and age figures on this page are planning signals, not a substitute for census releases or visa eligibility rules. Kiribati profile for immigrants covering visa pathways, cost signals, local services, safety, laws, scam alerts, and practical settlement planning. Early practical steps people actually use in Kiribati include: Confirm visa status and entry conditions before booking travel; Prepare temporary housing and proof of address where required; Set up local phone, banking, tax, and health coverage steps; Save emergency numbers, official portals, and scam-reporting channels. Treat the list as a reminder, not a filing checklist. When a number on this page could change a visa or tax outcome, open https://www.mfa.gov.ki/ (Kiribati Immigration) and match the current instruction. MigrantIQ is a planning aid, not a government filing system. Key facts for this topic cover: Population overview; Age & family; Migration; Ethnicity & language; Education; Health & living conditions. Expand each card for the structured figures. KEY FACTS: DEMOGRAPHICS & POPULATION POPULATION OVERVIEW Show 4 4 facts — expand for details. Population 111,796 Population Growth Rate 1.21% Urban Population 43.900000 [tel:43900000] Population in Major Urban Areas TARAWA (capital) 44,000 AGE & FAMILY Show 8 8 facts — expand for details. Age Structure 30.160000 [tel:30160000] Median Age 23.200000 [tel:23200000] Birth Rate - births/1,000 population 22 Death Rate - deaths/1,000 population 7.24 Total Fertility Rate - children born/woman 2.63 Contraceptive Prevalance Rate - female 12-49 22.3% Contraceptive Prevalence Rate - female 12-49 22.3% Sex Ratio at Birth - male/female 1.050000 [tel:1050000] MIGRATION Hide Net Migration Rate - migrant(s)/1,000 population -2.86 ETHNICITY & LANGUAGE Hide Ethnic Groups predominantly Micronesian with some Polynesian Nationality Noun I-Kiribati (singular and plural) EDUCATION Hide Literacy Definition NA Education Expenditures - percent of GDP 12% Total School Life Expectancy - (primary to tertiary) 12.000000 [tel:12000000] HEALTH & LIVING CONDITIONS Show 10 10 facts — expand for details. Life Expectancy at Birth 65.110000 [tel:65110000] Infant Mortality Rate 36.500000 [tel:36500000] Infant Mortality Rate - total deaths/1,000 live births 36.500000 [tel:36500000] Maternal Mortality Rate - deaths/100,000 live births 9 Physicians Density - physicians/1,000 population .38 Hospital Bed Density - beds/1,000 population 1.3 Health Expenditures - percent of GDP 10.1% Obesity - adult prevalence rate 46% Drinking Water Source - percent of urban population improved 87.400000 [tel:87400000] Sanitation Facility Access - percent of urban population improved 51.200000 [tel:51200000] ECONOMY IN KIRIBATI: PLANNING NOTES 191 words of country-specific briefing for moving to Kiribati. Figures that affect visas or tax should still be checked on official sites. Economy in Kiribati for people weighing a move, not a tourist recap. The notes below use Kiribati-specific planning fields. Detailed profile figures sit in the Key facts section under this topic. People comparing Kiribati with other destinations usually start with wages, rent, and tax, not headline GDP. GDP per capita in the planning dataset is about 2,200. Recent growth is listed at 1.8 percent. Unemployment is listed at 2 percent. A typical net monthly salary signal is 300. A city-centre 1-bed rent signal is 200. A monthly groceries signal is 120. Local currency code: AUD. City prices vary, and these indexes do not replace a job offer or a proof-of-funds check. Kiribati profile for immigrants covering visa pathways, cost signals, local services, safety, laws, scam alerts, and practical settlement planning. When a number on this page could change a visa or tax outcome, open https://www.mfa.gov.ki/ (Kiribati Immigration) and match the current instruction. MigrantIQ is a planning aid, not a government filing system. Key facts for this topic cover: Economic overview; GDP & growth; Prices & money; Employment & labor; Labor by occupation; Public finance. Expand each card for the structured figures. KEY FACTS: ECONOMY ECONOMIC OVERVIEW Show 4 4 facts — expand for details. Economic Overview A remote country of 33 scattered coral atolls, Kiribati has few natural resources and is one of the least developed Pacific Island countries. Commercially viable phosphate deposits were exhausted by the time of independence from the United Kingdom in 1979. Earnings from fishing licenses and seafarer remittances are important sources of income. Although the number of seafarers employed declined due to changes in global shipping demands, remittances are expected to improve with more overseas temporary and seasonal work opportunities for Kiribati nationals. Economic development is constrained by a shortage of skilled workers, weak infrastructure, and remoteness from international markets. The public sector dominates economic activity, with ongoing capital projects in infrastructure including road rehabilitation, water and sanitation projects, and renovations to the international airport, spurring some growth. Public debt increased from 23% of GDP at the end of 2015 to 25.8% in 2016. Kiribati is dependent on foreign aid, which was estimated to have contributed over 32.7% in 2016 to the government’s finances. The country’s sovereign fund, the Revenue Equalization Reserve Fund (RERF), which is held offshore, had an estimated balance of $855.5 million in late July 2016. The RERF seeks to avoid exchange rate risk by holding investments in more than 20 currencies, including the Australian dollar, US dollar, the Japanese yen, and the Euro. Drawdowns from the RERF helped finance the government’s annual budget. Industries fishing, handicrafts GDP - per capita (PPP) $2,200.00 (USD) GDP - real growth rate 1.8% GDP & GROWTH Show 7 7 facts — expand for details. GDP - Gross Domestic Product (PPP) $270,000,000 (USD) GDP Per Capita $2,200.00 (USD) GDP - real growth rate 1.8% GDP - official exchange rate $164,000,000 (USD) GDP by Sector- agriculture 26.3% GDP by Sector- Industry 9.2% GDP by Sector- services 64.5% PRICES & MONEY Show 4 4 facts — expand for details. Inflation Rate 0.2% Exchange Rate per US Dollar Australian dollar (AUD) Currency Name and Code Australian Dollar (AUD) Fiscal Year NA EMPLOYMENT & LABOR Show 4 4 facts — expand for details. Labor Force 7,870 Unemployment Rate 2% Major Industries fishing, handicrafts Agriculture Products copra, taro, breadfruit, sweet potatoes, vegetables; fish LABOR BY OCCUPATION Show 3 3 facts — expand for details. Labor Force By Occupation- agriculture 2.7% Labor Force By Occupation- industry 32% Labor Force By Occupation- services 65.3% PUBLIC FINANCE Hide Annual Budget $55,520,000 (USD) Budget Surplus or Deficit - percent of GDP -29.8% Taxes and other revenues - percent of GDP 32.1% GOVERNMENT & POLITICS IN KIRIBATI: PLANNING NOTES 202 words of country-specific briefing for moving to Kiribati. Figures that affect visas or tax should still be checked on official sites. Government & politics in Kiribati for people weighing a move, not a tourist recap. The notes below use Kiribati-specific planning fields. Detailed profile figures sit in the Key facts section under this topic. Kiribati's government and legal structure matters for visas, ID, tax residence, and later naturalization. The immigration authority in our records is Kiribati Immigration. Confirm current forms and fees on https://www.mfa.gov.ki/. In the planning dataset, dual citizenship is listed as restricted. Kiribati profile for immigrants covering visa pathways, cost signals, local services, safety, laws, scam alerts, and practical settlement planning. Early practical steps people actually use in Kiribati include: Confirm visa status and entry conditions before booking travel; Prepare temporary housing and proof of address where required; Set up local phone, banking, tax, and health coverage steps; Save emergency numbers, official portals, and scam-reporting channels. Treat the list as a reminder, not a filing checklist. When a number on this page could change a visa or tax outcome, open https://www.mfa.gov.ki/ (Kiribati Immigration) and match the current instruction. MigrantIQ is a planning aid, not a government filing system. Key facts for this topic cover: Identity & names; Political system; Capital & time; International role. Expand each card for the structured figures. KEY FACTS: GOVERNMENT & POLITICS IDENTITY & NAMES Show 9 9 facts — expand for details. Full Country Name Republic of Kiribati note: pronounced keer-ree-bahss Country Name Kiribati Local - Long Republic of Kiribati Local - Short Kiribati Pronunciation keer-ree-bahss Former Name Gilbert Islands Etymology- history of name the name is the local pronunciation of "Gilberts," the former designation of the islands; originally named after explorer Thomas GILBERT, who mapped many of the islands in 1788 Independence 12 July 1979 (from the UK) National Holiday Independence Day, 12 July (1979) POLITICAL SYSTEM Show 10 10 facts — expand for details. Government Type presidential republic Constitution * history: The Gilbert and Ellice Islands Order in Council 1915, The Gilbert Islands Order in Council 1975 (preindependence); latest promulgated 12 July 1979 (at independence) * amendments: proposed by the House of Assembly; passage requires two-thirds majority vote by the Assembly membership; passage of amendments affecting the constitutional section on amendment procedures and parts of the constitutional chapter on citizenship requires deferral of the proposal to the next Assembly meeting where approval is required by at least two-thirds majority vote of the Assembly membership and support of the nominated or elected Banaban member of the Assembly; amendments affecting the protection of fundamental rights and freedoms also requires approval by at least two-thirds majority in a referendum; amended several times, last in 2018 Legal System: English common law supplemented by customary law Executive Branch: * chief of state: President Taneti MAAMAU (since 11 March 2016); Vice President Teuea TOATU (since 19 June 2019); note - the president is both chief of state and head of government * head of government: President Taneti MAAMAU (since 11 March 2016); Vice President Teuea TOATU (since 19 June 2019) * cabinet: Cabinet appointed by the president from among House of Assembly members * elections/appointments: president directly elected by simple majority popular vote following nomination of candidates from among House of Assembly members for a 4-year term (eligible for 2 additional terms); election last held on 22 June 2020 (next to be held in 2024); vice president appointed by the president * election results: 2020: Taneti MAAMAU reelected president; percent of vote - Taneti MAAMAU (TKB) 59.3%, Banuera BERINA (BKM) 40.7% Legislative Branch: * Description: unicameral House of Assembly or Maneaba Ni Maungatabu (46 seats; 44 members directly elected in single- and multi-seat constituencies by absolute majority vote in two-rounds if needed; 1 member appointed by the Rabi Council of Leaders - representing Banaba Island, and 1 ex officio member - the attorney general; members serve 4-year terms) * Elections: legislative elections originally scheduled to be held in two rounds on 7 and 15 April 2020 but rescheduled for 14 and 21 April (next to be held in 2024) * Election Results: percent of vote by party (second round) - NA; seats by party (second round) - TKB 21, BKM 21, 2 independents; * Composition: 42 men, 3 women; percentage of women 6.7% Judicial Branch: * office: chief justice appointed by the president on the advice of the cabinet in consultation with the Public Service Commission (PSC); other judges appointed by the president on the advice of the chief justice along with the PSC * subordinate courts: Court of Appeal; magistrates' courts Regions or States: 3 geographical units: Gilbert Islands, Line Islands, Phoenix Islands; note - there are no first-order administrative divisions, but there are 6 districts (Banaba, Central Gilberts, Line Islands, Northern Gilberts, Southern Gilberts, Tarawa) and 21 island councils - one for each of the inhabited islands (Abaiang, Abemama, Aranuka, Arorae, Banaba, Beru, Butaritari, Kanton, Kiritimati, Kuria, Maiana, Makin, Marakei, Nikunau, Nonouti, Onotoa, Tabiteuea, Tabuaeran, Tamana, Tarawa, Teraina) Political Parties and Leaders: * Boutokaan Kiribati Moa Party (Supporting Kiribati First) or BKM [Tessie LAMBOURNE] * Tobwaan Kiribati Party (Embracing Kiribati) or TKP [Taneti MAAMAU] Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal Citizenship Criteria: * birth: no citizenship by descent * only: at least one parent must be a native-born citizen of Kiribati dual citizenship * recognized: no residency requirement for * naturalization: 7 years CAPITAL & TIME Hide Capital Name Tarawa Capital - geographic coordinate 1 21 N, 173 02 E Capital Time Difference * note: Kiribati has three time * zones: the Gilbert Islands group at UTC+12, the Phoenix Islands at UTC+13, and the Line Islands at UTC+14 INTERNATIONAL ROLE Show 4 4 facts — expand for details. International Organization Participation: * ABEDA * ACP * ADB * AOSIS * FAO * IBRD * ICAO * ICRM * IDA * IFAD * IFC * IFRCS * ILO * IMF * IMO * IOC * ITU * ITUC (NGOs) * OPCW * PIF * Sparteca * SPC * UN * UNCTAD * UNDP * UNESCO * UPU * WHO * WIPO * WMO International Law Organization Participation: has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; non-party state to the ICCt Diplomatic Representation from US: * Embassy: the US does not have an embassy in Kiribati; the US Ambassador to Fiji is accredited to Kiribati Diplomatic Representation in the US: * Chief of Mission: Ambassador Teburoro TITO (since 24 January 2018) * Chancery: 685 Third Avenue, Suite 1109, New York, NY 10017 * Telephone: [1] (212) 867-3310 [tel:2128673310] * FAX: [1] (212) 867-3320 [tel:2128673320] * Email: Kimission.newyork@mfa.gov.ki GEOGRAPHY & ENVIRONMENT IN KIRIBATI: PLANNING NOTES 140 words of country-specific briefing for moving to Kiribati. Figures that affect visas or tax should still be checked on official sites. Geography & environment in Kiribati for people weighing a move, not a tourist recap. The notes below use Kiribati-specific planning fields. Detailed profile figures sit in the Key facts section under this topic. Kiribati's capital is Tarawa in Micronesia, Oceania. Traffic keeps to the left. Geography here is for settlement planning: climate, distance to work, and which city you can actually afford, not a travel brochure. Kiribati profile for immigrants covering visa pathways, cost signals, local services, safety, laws, scam alerts, and practical settlement planning. When a number on this page could change a visa or tax outcome, open https://www.mfa.gov.ki/ (Kiribati Immigration) and match the current instruction. MigrantIQ is a planning aid, not a government filing system. Key facts for this topic cover: Location & size; Physical geography; Climate & time; Climate; Environment. Expand each card for the structured figures. KEY FACTS: GEOGRAPHY & ENVIRONMENT LOCATION & SIZE Show 5 5 facts — expand for details. Geographic Location Oceania Geographic Coordinates 1 25 N, 173 00 E Total Area 313 Square Miles 811 Square Kilometers Land Area 313 Square Miles 811 Square Kilometers Coastline 710 Miles 1,143 Kilometers PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY Show 5 5 facts — expand for details. Terrain mostly low-lying coral atolls surrounded by extensive reefs Highest Point 81 Meters Highest Point Location unnamed location on Banaba 81 m Lowest Point Location Pacific Ocean 0 m Natural Resources phosphate (production discontinued in 1979) CLIMATE & TIME Hide Time Zone * note: Kiribati has three time * zones: the Gilbert Islands group at UTC+12, the Phoenix Islands at UTC+13, and the Line Islands at UTC+14 CLIMATE Show 4 4 facts — expand for details. Climate tropical; marine, hot and humid, moderated by trade winds Terrain mostly low-lying coral atolls surrounded by extensive reefs Location Oceania, group of 33 coral atolls in the Pacific Ocean, straddling the Equator, as well as the International Date Line the capital Tarawa is about half way between Hawaii and Australia Total Area 313 Square Miles 811 Square Kilometers ENVIRONMENT Hide Environment - Current Issues heavy pollution in lagoon of south Tarawa atoll due to heavy migration mixed with traditional practices such as lagoon latrines and open-pit dumping ground water at risk Environment - International Agreements party to: Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Desertification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Ozone Layer Protection, Whaling signed, but not ratified: none of the selected agreements TRADE IN KIRIBATI: PLANNING NOTES 144 words of country-specific briefing for moving to Kiribati. Figures that affect visas or tax should still be checked on official sites. Trade in Kiribati for people weighing a move, not a tourist recap. The notes below use Kiribati-specific planning fields. Detailed profile figures sit in the Key facts section under this topic. Trade figures for Kiribati help explain which industries hire, which ports matter, and how imported goods show up in grocery prices. Settlements and contracts usually run in AUD. They are not a visa pathway. Work permission still depends on the destination's immigration rules. Kiribati profile for immigrants covering visa pathways, cost signals, local services, safety, laws, scam alerts, and practical settlement planning. When a number on this page could change a visa or tax outcome, open https://www.mfa.gov.ki/ (Kiribati Immigration) and match the current instruction. MigrantIQ is a planning aid, not a government filing system. Key facts for this topic cover: Trade overview; Trading partners; Partners (summary). Expand each card for the structured figures. KEY FACTS: TRADE TRADE OVERVIEW Show 4 4 facts — expand for details. Exports $17,000,000 (USD) Imports $62,000,000 (USD) Major Exports copra 62%, coconuts, seaweed, fish Major Imports foodstuffs, machinery and equipment, miscellaneous manufactured goods, fuel TRADING PARTNERS Hide Top Export Partners Japan 54.3%, South Korea 17.1%, Thailand 17.1% Top Import Partners France 30.1%, Australia 27.7%, Fiji 13.3%, Japan 9.6%, US 4.8% PARTNERS (SUMMARY) Hide Export Partners Japan 54.3%, South Korea 17.1%, Thailand 17.1% Import Partners France 30.1%, Australia 27.7%, Fiji 13.3%, Japan 9.6%, US 4.8% TRAVEL & SAFETY IN KIRIBATI: PLANNING NOTES 219 words of country-specific briefing for moving to Kiribati. Figures that affect visas or tax should still be checked on official sites. Travel & safety in Kiribati for people weighing a move, not a tourist recap. The notes below use Kiribati-specific planning fields. Detailed profile figures sit in the Key facts section under this topic. Safety in Kiribati is local. Neighbourhood, night transport, and documentation checks matter more than a single country score. Tap water is listed as generally safe in the planning dataset. Healthcare system type: Universal/Beveridge. Immigrant health access note: Limited. Health coverage waiting period in the dataset: 90 days. Read current travel advice from your origin government before you book. Kiribati profile for immigrants covering visa pathways, cost signals, local services, safety, laws, scam alerts, and practical settlement planning. Early practical steps people actually use in Kiribati include: Confirm visa status and entry conditions before booking travel; Prepare temporary housing and proof of address where required; Set up local phone, banking, tax, and health coverage steps; Save emergency numbers, official portals, and scam-reporting channels. Treat the list as a reminder, not a filing checklist. When a number on this page could change a visa or tax outcome, open https://www.mfa.gov.ki/ (Kiribati Immigration) and match the current instruction. MigrantIQ is a planning aid, not a government filing system. Key facts for this topic cover: Before you travel; Crime & law; Health & roads. Expand each card for the structured figures. KEY FACTS: TRAVEL & SAFETY BEFORE YOU TRAVEL Hide Country Description The Republic of Kiribati (pronounced kir-ree-bas) is an island group in the Western Pacific Ocean. It consists of three archipelagos totaling 33 mostly low-lying coral atolls surrounded by extensive reefs, with a total land area of 800 square kilometers. Kiribati gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1979. Kiribati has an elected president and a legislative assembly. The capital city is Tarawa. Kiribati has few natural resources, and its economy is very small. Kiribati does have small but growing niche markets for fishing, especially at Christmas Island, diving, surfing and bird watching. Tourist facilities are not widely available. Safety & Security Emergency numbers in Kiribati: The general emergency equivalent to “911” is 999. You can also reach individual emergency services by directly dialing 992 for police, 993 for fire, and 994 for ambulance. CRIME & LAW Show 2 2 facts — expand for details. Crime Although the crime rate in Kiribati is low, visitors should not be complacent regarding their personal safety or protecting valuables. Don’t buy counterfeit and pirated goods, even if they are widely available. Not only are the bootlegs illegal in the United States, if you purchase them you may also be breaking local law. Criminal Penalties While you are traveling in Kiribati, you are subject to its laws even if you are a U.S. citizen. Foreign laws and legal systems can be vastly different than our own. In Kiribati, you may be taken in for questioning if you don’t have your passport with you. It is illegal to take pictures of certain buildings. Driving under the influence could land you immediately in jail. These criminal penalties will vary from country to country. There are also some things that might be legal in the country you visit, but still illegal in the United States, and you can be prosecuted under U.S. law if you buy pirated goods. Engaging in sexual conduct with children or using or disseminating child pornography in a foreign country is a crime prosecutable in the United States. If you break local laws in Kiribati, your U.S. passport won’t help you avoid arrest or prosecution. It’s very important to know what’s legal and what’s not where you are going. While some countries will automatically notify the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate if a U.S. citizen is detained or arrested in a foreign country, that might not always be the case. To ensure that the United States is aware of your circumstances, request that the police and prison officials notify the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate as soon as you are arrested or detained overseas. HEALTH & ROADS Show 2 2 facts — expand for details. Medical Facilities Health care throughout Kiribati, including Tarawa, is substandard. Medication and supplies are limited and hospital accommodations are inadequate throughout the country. Serious medical conditions requiring hospitalization or evacuation to the United States or elsewhere may cost thousands of dollars. If a person dies in Kiribati, there are no funeral homes with embalming or cremation services. If a relative wishes to return their deceased family member to the United States, there will be additional requirements needed to prepare the deceased member for travel. These requirements depend on the cause of death. The only international air connections in Kiribati are a weekly flight connecting Kiritimati (Christmas) Island to Honolulu and two weekly connections between Tarawa and Fiji. Air Kiribati provides rare flights between the islands of Kiribati. A serious medical condition could require an expensive medical evacuation. All water should be regarded as a potential health risk. Visitors should refrain from drinking any water that is not bottled, boiled, or otherwise sterilized. Vegetables should be cooked and fruit should be peeled before being eaten. Traffic Safety While in Kiribati, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. Traffic moves on the left side of the road in Kiribati. Roads in urban Tarawa and Christmas Island, while satisfactory in some areas, are generally in need of repair. After heavy rains, some road sections experience temporary flooding. Vehicle traffic proceeds at a relatively slow rate. Drinking and driving is a common practice, especially on the weekends. Since visibility is poor with no streetlights, drivers should be especially careful when driving at night. For specific information concerning Kiribati drivers’ permits, vehicle inspection, road tax and mandatory insurance, please contact the Consulate of the Republic of Kiribati in Honolulu, Hawaii at (808) 834-6775 [tel:8088346775]. INFRASTRUCTURE IN KIRIBATI: PLANNING NOTES 144 words of country-specific briefing for moving to Kiribati. Figures that affect visas or tax should still be checked on official sites. Infrastructure in Kiribati for people weighing a move, not a tourist recap. The notes below use Kiribati-specific planning fields. Detailed profile figures sit in the Key facts section under this topic. Infrastructure in Kiribati affects commute time, remote work, and whether a city is livable in the first 90 days. Typical internet speed in the dataset is 5 Mbps. Airports, rail, and roads on this page are inventory, not a promise that your neighbourhood is well served. Kiribati profile for immigrants covering visa pathways, cost signals, local services, safety, laws, scam alerts, and practical settlement planning. When a number on this page could change a visa or tax outcome, open https://www.mfa.gov.ki/ (Kiribati Immigration) and match the current instruction. MigrantIQ is a planning aid, not a government filing system. Key facts for this topic cover: Transportation; Communications; Energy. Expand each card for the structured figures. KEY FACTS: INFRASTRUCTURE TRANSPORTATION Show 5 5 facts — expand for details. Airports - total 19 Airports with Paved Runways 4 Roadways- total 416 Miles 670 Kilometers Waterways 3 Miles 5 Kilometers Ports and Terminals Banaba, Betio, English Harbour, Kanton COMMUNICATIONS Show 7 7 facts — expand for details. Telephones 4,000 Cell Phones 700 Internet Users 2,000 Internet Country Code .ki Internet Hosts 31 Broadcast Media * 1 TV broadcast station that provides about 1 hour of local programming Monday-Friday * multi-channel TV packages provide access to Australian and US stations * 1 government-operated radio station broadcasts on AM, FM, and shortwave Telephone System * assessment: generally good quality national and international service * domestic: wire line service available on Tarawa and Kiritimati (Christmas Island); connections to outer islands by HF/VHF radiotelephone; wireless service available in Tarawa since 1999 * international: country code - 686; Kiribati is being linked to the Pacific Ocean Cooperative Telecommunications Network, which should improve telephone service; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Pacific Ocean) ENERGY Hide Electricity Consumption- Kilowatt Hours (kWh) 13,020,000 Electricity Production- Kilowatt Hours (kWh) 14,000,000 Oil Consumption- Barrels Per Day (bbl/day) 300 NATIONAL SYMBOLS IN KIRIBATI: PLANNING NOTES 127 words of country-specific briefing for moving to Kiribati. Figures that affect visas or tax should still be checked on official sites. National symbols in Kiribati for people weighing a move, not a tourist recap. The notes below use Kiribati-specific planning fields. Detailed profile figures sit in the Key facts section under this topic. National symbols for Kiribati are background for civic life and ceremonies. They do not change visa rules. Use the government and visa pages for status, work, and stay conditions. Kiribati profile for immigrants covering visa pathways, cost signals, local services, safety, laws, scam alerts, and practical settlement planning. When a number on this page could change a visa or tax outcome, open https://www.mfa.gov.ki/ (Kiribati Immigration) and match the current instruction. MigrantIQ is a planning aid, not a government filing system. Key facts for this topic cover: National anthem. Expand each card for the structured figures. KEY FACTS: NATIONAL SYMBOLS NATIONAL ANTHEM Show 3 3 facts — expand for details. Anthem History "Teirake kaini Kiribati", adopted upon 1979 independence from Great Britian. Words and Music by: Urium Tamuera Ioteba Anthem Lyrics Teirake kaini Kiribati Teirake kaini Kiribati, Anene ma te kakatonga, Tauraoi nakon te nwioko, Ma ni buokia aomata. Tauaninne n te raoiroi, Tangiria aoma ta nako. Tauaninne n te raoiroi, Tangiria aomata. Reken te kabaia ma te rau Ibuakoia kaain abara Bon reken abara Bon reken te nano ae banin Ma te i-tangitangiri naba. Ma ni wakina te kab'aia, Ma n neboa abara. Ma ni wakina te kab'aia, Ma n neboa abara. Ti butiko ngkoe Atuara Kawakinira ao kairika Nakon taai aika i maira. Buokira ni baim ae akoi. Kakabaia ara Tautaeka Ma ake a makuri iai. Kakabaia ara Tautaeka Ma aomata ni bane. Anthem Lyrics English Stand up, Kiribati! Sing with jubilation! Prepare to accept responsibility And to help each other! Be steadfastly righteous! Love all our people! Be steadfastly righteous! Love all our people! The attainment of contentment And peace by our people Will be achieved when all Our hearts beat as one, Love one another! Promote happiness and unity! Love one another! Promote happiness and unity! We beseech You, O God, To protect and lead us In the days to come. Help us with Your loving hand. Bless our Government And all our people! Bless our Government And all our people! Verified immigration updates for Kiribati → [/countries/kiribati/immigration-updates/] GOVERNMENT JOBS IN KIRIBATI * Kiribati Government Jobs [/government-jobs/government-careers-ki/] · Kiribati public employment authority All government jobs for Kiribati → [/government-jobs/?country=kiribati] OFFICIAL LANGUAGES IN KIRIBATI I-KiribatiEnglish (official) OFFICIAL LINKS FOR KIRIBATI * Kiribati Immigration [https://www.mfa.gov.ki/] Official immigration portal for visas, entry rules, and residency steps. The official portal for Kiribati immigration is important for obtaining accurate information and forms. Be cautious of lookalike websites that may charge for free services or information. NEWCOMER CHECKLIST FOR KIRIBATI * •Prepare temporary housing and proof of address where required * •Set up local phone, banking, tax, and health coverage steps * •Save emergency numbers, official portals, and scam-reporting channels * •Research local healthcare facilities and understand the 90-day waiting period for health access * •Connect with local expat communities for support and advice * •Gather necessary documents for your visa type and any family members accompanying you * •Learn about local customs and cultural practices LOCAL SERVICES & SETUP IN KIRIBATI Healthcare access: Limited Health waiting period: 90 day(s) SETTLEMENT FUNDS & FINANCIAL NOTES FOR KIRIBATI When settling in Kiribati, have a clear understanding of your financial situation. Proof of funds may be required for certain visa types, so ensure you have adequate banking arrangements. Setting up a local bank account can help with transactions and daily expenses. Learn about the local currency (AUD) and consider the implications of living on a limited salary, especially for budgeting housing and basic needs. COST OF LIVING BY CITY IN KIRIBATI Monthly living-cost signals in AUD. Figures are planning estimates — rent and lifestyle vary by neighbourhood. CitySingle monthly (AUD)Family monthly (AUD)1BR center (AUD)Capital cityA$1,773A$3,896A$445 WHO QUALIFIES BEST FOR KIRIBATI * work Individuals seeking employment opportunities in a unique cultural setting. * family Families looking to reunite with loved ones in Kiribati. * study Students interested in educational programs available in the region. * visit Tourists wanting to explore the natural beauty and culture of Kiribati. WHAT PEOPLE GET WRONG ABOUT MOVING TO KIRIBATI OVERLOOKING VISA REQUIREMENTS Many newcomers underestimate the importance of confirming their visa status and entry conditions before traveling. Ensure all paperwork is in order to avoid complications upon arrival. NEGLECTING HEALTHCARE ACCESS Limited healthcare access can be a significant challenge in Kiribati. Understand the 90-day waiting period for health services and make arrangements for any immediate medical needs. UNDERESTIMATING LOCAL COSTS It's easy to misjudge living expenses in Kiribati, especially without specific cost indexes. Research local prices thoroughly to avoid financial surprises once you arrive. SOURCES & REFERENCES FOR KIRIBATI Country data is a planning aid. Official government sources override MigrantIQ summaries for immigration, legal, tax, health, and emergency rules. * MigrantIQ country profile Summary profile maintained for planning. Last updated 2026-05-07. * World Bank and public data sources Used for economic and country-level indicators where available. * Numbeo and public cost datasets Used for cost-of-living signals for Kiribati where available. FOREIGN EMBASSIES IN KIRIBATI 7 active diplomatic missions in our directory. Sample listings below. * Consulate of France in Tarawa, Kiribati [/embassies/mission/france-in-kiribati-tarawa-consulate/] — 🇫🇷 France, Tarawa * Embassy of China in Tarawa, Kiribati [/embassies/mission/china-in-kiribati-tarawa-embassy/] — 🇨🇳 China, Tarawa * Embassy of Cuba in Tarawa, Kiribati [/embassies/mission/cuba-in-kiribati-tarawa-embassy/] — 🇨🇺 Cuba, Tarawa * High Commission of Australia in Tarawa, Kiribati [/embassies/mission/australia-in-kiribati-tarawa-high-commission/] — 🇦🇺 Australia, Tarawa * High Commission of Newzealand in Tarawa, Kiribati [/embassies/mission/new-zealand-in-kiribati-tarawa-high-commission/] — 🇳🇿 New Zealand, Tarawa Browse all embassies in Kiribati → [/embassies/in/kiribati/] Important — not legal or government advice MigrantIQ lists diplomatic missions for planning reference only. We are not a government service. Contact details may be incomplete or outdated — always confirm appointments, fees, and requirements on the official mission website or your destination government portal before you travel or apply. Terms [/terms/]Privacy [/privacy/]Report inaccurate data [/contact/] Feedback Was this guide helpful? Your answer helps us improve guides and update priority. YesNo Summarize this page with AI Opens your assistant with a pre-filled prompt (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Claude). Gemini uses Google AI Mode. Ask AI ↗ Not affiliated with any AI platform. Always verify immigration rules on official government sites. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT MOVING TO KIRIBATI WHAT TYPES OF VISAS ARE AVAILABLE FOR MOVING TO KIRIBATI? Kiribati offers various visa options, including Business/Investor Visas, Family/Spouse Visas, Work Permits, Permanent Residency, Student Visas, and Tourist/Visitor Visas. Choose the one that best fits your situation. HOW CAN I ACCESS HEALTHCARE IN KIRIBATI? Healthcare in Kiribati operates under a universal system, but access is limited. Be prepared for a 90-day waiting period for services and consider private insurance if necessary. WHAT IS THE LOCAL CURRENCY IN KIRIBATI? The currency used in Kiribati is the Australian Dollar (AUD). It's important to learn about the currency for budgeting and daily transactions. RELATED KIRIBATI GUIDES Visa Kiribati Visa Hub Read guide → [/visas/kiribati/]Legal Kiribati Laws Read guide → [/laws/kiribati/]Safety Kiribati Scam Alerts Read guide → [/scam-alerts/kiribati/]Checklist Kiribati Arrival Checklist Read guide → [/checklist/kiribati/]Blog Migration blog Read guide → [/blog/] Advertisement300 × 250AdSense zone VISA OPTIONS 7 published * Business / Investor Visa [/visas/kiribati/business-investor/]business * Family / Spouse Visa [/visas/kiribati/family-spouse/]family * Kiribati Work Permit [/visas/kiribati/kiribati-work-permit/]migration * Permanent Residency / Settlement [/visas/kiribati/permanent-residency/]residency * Student Visa [/visas/kiribati/student/]student * Tourist / Visitor Visa [/visas/kiribati/tourist-visitor/]tourist * Work / Employment Visa [/visas/kiribati/work-employment/]work Open visa hub → [/visas/kiribati/] KEY LAWS * Work Authorisation Rules [/laws/kiribati/work-authorisation-rules/]critical * Tax Residency and Income Reporting [/laws/kiribati/tax-residency-and-income-reporting/]high * Immigration Status and Overstay Rules [/laws/kiribati/immigration-status-and-overstay-rules/]critical * Address Registration and Identity Duties [/laws/kiribati/address-registration-and-id-duties/]medium ACTIVE SCAM ALERTS * Document Translation, Notary, or Apostille Overcharge [/scam-alerts/kiribati/document-translation-notary-overcharge/]medium * Fake Border, Airport, or Fast-Track Assistance Fee [/scam-alerts/kiribati/fake-border-airport-assistance-fee/]medium * Fake University or Scholarship Letter [/scam-alerts/kiribati/fake-university-or-scholarship-letter/]medium Plan smarter Save countries, compare destinations, track visa checklists, and sync your migration plan across devices. Open My Plan [/plan/]Account Dashboard [/account/] Free resources TOOLS & GUIDES Full sitemap → [/sitemap/] PLAN YOUR MOVE * Eligibility quiz [/tools/eligibility/] * Tax calculator [/tools/tax-calculator/] * Tax compare [/tools/tax-compare/] * Tax guides [/tools/tax-guides/] * Points calculator [/tools/points-calculator/] * Cost calculator [/calculator/] * Move planner [/tools/planner/] * Best country [/tools/best-country/] * Pathway finder [/tools/pathway-finder/] * Corridor fit [/tools/corridor-fit/] * Compare 3 countries [/tools/compare-three/] * Job → visa matcher [/tools/job-visa-match/] * Scam checker [/tools/scam-check/] * All tools [/tools/] GUIDES & SAFETY * Visa guides [/visas/] * Scholarships [/scholarships/] * Government jobs [/government-jobs/] * Immigration updates [/countries/canada/immigration-updates/] * Embassies [/embassies/] * Laws [/laws/] * Scam alerts [/scam-alerts/] * Checklists [/checklist/] * Country profiles [/countries/] ARRIVAL HUBS * Settle [/settle/] * Driving [/driving/] * Sponsors [/sponsors/] * Ancestry [/ancestry/] * Housing [/housing/] * Money [/money/] * Family [/family/] * Pets [/pets/] * Shipping [/shipping/] * Investment [/investment/] * Retire [/retire/] * Return [/return/] * Safe migration [/safe-migration/] COMMUNITY * Q&A [/qa/] * People stories [/stories/] * Blog [/blog/] * Android app (Google Play) [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.migrantiq.app&hl=en] * Write for us [/write-for-us/] * Experts [/experts/] * Apply for expert listing [/experts/apply/] * Documentation [/documentation/] * Employers (HR) [/employers/] ```json {"@context":"https://schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https://migrantiq.com/#organization","name":"MigrantIQ","url":"https://migrantiq.com","logo":"https://migrantiq.com/logo.png","description":"MigrantIQ publishes free migration guides covering visas, laws, costs, culture, banking, healthcare, scam alerts, and moving checklists for 220 countries.","knowsAbout":["immigration","visa requirements","moving abroad","cost of living","immigrant laws","scam protection","arrival checklists"],"sameAs":["https://www.facebook.com/migrantiq/","https://x.com/MigrantIQ","https://www.instagram.com/migrantiqorg/","https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.migrantiq.app&hl=en"],"contactPoint":[{"@type":"ContactPoint","contactType":"customer support","email":"Info@MigrantIQ.com","url":"https://migrantiq.com/contact/","availableLanguage":["English"]}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https://migrantiq.com/#website","name":"MigrantIQ","url":"https://migrantiq.com","publisher":{"@id":"https://migrantiq.com/#organization"},"inLanguage":"en","potentialAction":{"@type":"SearchAction","target":"https://migrantiq.com/search/?q={search_term_string}","query-input":"required name=search_term_string"}}]} {"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"BreadcrumbList","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https://migrantiq.com/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Countries","item":"https://migrantiq.com/countries/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":3,"name":"Kiribati","item":"https://migrantiq.com/countries/kiribati/"}]} {"@context":"https://schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https://migrantiq.com/countries/kiribati/#webpage","name":"Moving to Kiribati: visas, cost of living & immigrant guide","description":"Moving to Kiribati can be suitable for individuals and families looking for a distinct lifestyle in Oceania. 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