1. Exchange Rates and Accepted Currencies

The vatu (VT) is the official currency of Vanuatu. There are no cents in this currency, so all transactions are rounded. The exchange rate varies, so make sure to check current rates before exchanging your money.

The most commonly accepted currencies for exchange are:

• Australian Dollar (AUD)
  
  
• New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
  
  
• US Dollar (USD)
  
  
• Euro (EUR)

 

2. Where to Exchange Money?

Local Banks:

The main banks in Port Vila and Luganville, such as ANZ, BRED Bank, National Bank of Vanuatu, BSP, etc., offer currency exchange services. They usually provide competitive rates and financial advice if needed.

These banks are open on weekdays from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM but are generally closed on weekends. Most are located on the main road in Port Vila (Kumul Highway), except for the National Bank, which is on Rue de Paris.

 

Currency Exchange Offices:

Private currency exchange offices are also available in the main tourist areas of Port Vila and Luganville. You may sometimes find advantageous rates there, but it is recommended to compare them with bank rates before making an exchange.

• No1 Currency - Port Vila Airport: Open daily from 4:00 AM to 11:00 PM
  
  
• Western Union - Port Vila Airport: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM
  
  
• No1 Currency - Port Vila City Center (Pilioko Building): Open daily from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM
  
  
• Goodies Money Exchange (Lini Highway): Open daily from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM
  
  
• Western Union - Port Vila City Center (Pilioko Building): Open Monday to Friday from 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM, Saturday and Sunday from 7:30 AM to 1:00 PM
  
  
• Western Union - Port Vila City Center (Lini Highway, Vate Electric Building): Open Monday to Saturday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, closed on Sunday
  
  
• Western Union - Port Vila City Center (Post Office): Open Monday to Friday from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM, Saturday from 7:30 AM to 11:30 AM, closed on Sunday
  
  
• Western Union - Port Vila City Center (Opposite ANZ Bank): Open daily from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM
  
  
• Western Union - Port Vila City Center (Opposite Grand Hotel): Open Monday to Friday from 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM, Saturday from 7:30 AM to 1:00 PM, closed on Sunday
  
  
• Western Union - Santo Airport: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
  
  
• No1 Currency - Luganville (Main Street): Open daily from 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM, closed on Sunday
  
  
• Western Union - Luganville (Post Office): Open Monday to Friday from 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM, Saturday from 7:30 AM to 11:30 AM, closed on Sunday
  
  
• Western Union - Luganville (Buchee Building): Open daily from 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM
  
  
• Western Union - Malekula (Lakatoro): Open Monday to Friday from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM, Saturday from 7:30 AM to 12:30 PM, closed on Sunday
  
  
• Western Union - Maskelyne: Open Monday to Friday from 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM, closed on weekends.

 

Port Vila & Luganville international Airport:

It is possible to exchange currency at both Port Vila and Luganville airports. You will find bank counters as well as currency exchange offices and ATMs where you can use your credit card. This is convenient if you need cash as soon as you arrive.

 

3. Prepare If Travelling to Outer Islands

If you plan to visit Tanna or other islands in Vanuatu, it’s important to plan ahead before leaving Port Vila. These islands generally don’t have currency exchange offices or banks, and you may find it difficult to obtain vatus once you’re there. It’s recommended to exchange enough money in Port Vila before continuing your journey to these more remote areas.

 

4. Tips for Exchanging Money in Vanuatu

• Compare rates: Before exchanging money, compare rates between banks and currency exchange offices to get the best possible rate.
  
  
• Plan your withdrawals: Exchange or withdraw a sufficient amount of money before leaving Port Vila, especially if you’re traveling to islands where currency exchange services are unavailable.
  
  
• Carry cash for tourist sites: Many tourist sites, local markets, and small shops only accept cash. Make sure to have enough vatus in hand when visiting rural or remote areas.
  
  
• Watch out for fees: Be mindful of additional fees or commissions that may apply when exchanging money at currency exchange offices or banks.

 

5. What to Do with Remaining Vatus Before Leaving?

Before leaving Vanuatu, consider exchanging any remaining vatus at a bank or currency exchange office in Port Vila or Luganville. Keep in mind that it may be difficult to exchange vatus outside of Vanuatu, especially in small amounts.