Fiji Tourist Bans & Laws 2026: Things Not To Do & Illegal Items

Ignorance of local laws is never an excuse, especially in island nations with fragile ecosystems and deep-rooted traditions. Fiji enforces its border rules and cultural respect with severe precision. Before you pack your bags, you need to understand exactly what is banned, restricted, and culturally forbidden.

1. Drone Confiscation: The CAAF Permit Trap

Fiji's stunning islands might seem like a drone paradise, but customs officers will confiscate your gear if you arrive unprepared. Every drone, even micro-drones under 250 grams, requires prior authorization before your wheels touch the tarmac. You must submit Form OP 137 to the Civil Aviation Authority of Fiji at least three weeks prior to your arrival.

• Altitude Limits: Fiji strictly caps maximum drone altitude at 61 meters (200 feet), which is significantly lower than international norms.

• No-Fly Zones: You absolutely cannot fly within 5 kilometers of Nadi International Airport or directly over traditional villages and private resorts without written permission.

• Customs Seizures: Arriving at the border without printed proof of your CAAF permit usually results in your equipment being held at customs for the duration of your trip.

2. Vaping Bans & Strict E-Cigarette Regulations

Tourists often assume tropical islands have relaxed smoking rules, but Fiji heavily regulates vaping under the Tobacco Control Decree. While you can legally bring a personal e-cigarette for your own use, selling or importing vapes via mail without a commercial health permit is strictly illegal.

• Public Bans: Vaping is completely banned in most enclosed public spaces, workplaces, and all public transport including inter-island ferries.

• Smuggling Fines: Do not attempt to bring in bulk vape products for your friends or for resale. The Fiji Revenue and Customs Service actively confiscates unauthorized commercial quantities at the border.

• Age Limits: The legal age for purchasing or using tobacco and vaping products is strictly 18.

3. Customs Red Flags: The Tabua (Whale's Tooth) Ban

Airport security is notoriously strict when it comes to exporting or importing traditional artifacts. The most critical item to avoid is the Tabua, a polished sperm whale's tooth that holds immense cultural significance. Before packing your bags, be sure to review our detailed guide on Fiji Airport Customs Rules.

• Absolute Restriction: You cannot take a Tabua out of Fiji without a specific approval letter from the Ministry of iTaukei Affairs and a corresponding environmental permit.

• Severe Penalties: Attempting to smuggle restricted organic materials will result in immediate confiscation, massive financial penalties, and potential prosecution.

• Flora and Fauna: Never collect coral, shells, or native wood carvings without verifying their source and securing the proper CITES export documentation.

4. Village Taboos: The "Sacred Head" and Dress Codes

Visiting a traditional Fijian village is an incredible experience, but it requires strict adherence to cultural etiquette. The most shocking rule for foreigners is that touching someone’s head—even playfully patting a child’s hair—is incredibly offensive. In Fijian culture, the head is considered the most sacred part of the body.

• Modest Dress: Both men and women must cover their shoulders and knees. Wearing a sulu (traditional sarong) over your shorts is highly recommended when exploring communal lands.

• No Hats or Sunglasses: Wearing hats or sunglasses inside village boundaries is seen as a direct sign of disrespect and arrogance toward the local chief.

• Carry Bags Low: Always carry your backpack or tote bag in your hands, rather than slung over your shoulder, to visually demonstrate humility.

5. Kava Ceremony Offenses: Don't Point Your Feet

If you are invited to participate in a sevusevu (traditional welcoming ceremony), you will sit cross-legged on woven mats to drink Kava. How you sit and act during this ritual can make or break your relationship with the community. You should always bring a small bundle of Kava root as a tribute gift for the village chief upon arrival.

• Mind Your Feet: Never stretch your legs out or point the soles of your feet toward the Kava bowl (tanoa) or the chief.

• Accept with Both Hands: When offered a cup (bilo) of Kava, clap once, take the cup with both hands, and drink the entire portion in one gulp.

• Maintain Silence: Avoid casual chatter, do not interrupt elders, and never stand up or walk around while others are still drinking.

6. Driving & Traffic Laws: The Speed Trap Risk

Renting a car is a popular way to explore Viti Levu, but foreign drivers frequently fall into local traffic traps. Speed limits drop drastically and without much warning when passing through rural roadside villages. Navigating these roads requires intense focus, especially if you are also researching the Best Time to Visit Fiji.

• Aggressive Speed Bumps: Village zones feature aggressive speed humps that will severely damage your rental car if you fail to slow down to 50 km/h or less.

• International Permit: While you can legally drive on a valid English-language license for short stays, carrying an International Driving Permit (IDP) prevents police hassle at checkpoints.

• Seatbelts & Phones: Police actively patrol for unbuckled passengers and drivers using mobile phones, issuing instant on-the-spot fines.

Stay Connected to Stay Safe

A reliable internet connection is your strongest safety tool when navigating foreign laws, translating cultural nuances, or looking up directions to the nearest embassy. Relying on spotty hotel Wi-Fi leaves you totally vulnerable when exploring remote villages or checking local bus routes. For a complete breakdown of your connectivity options, read our article on How to Get Internet in Fiji.