×
Interested in our Partner Program for businesses or our Local Guide Program for experienced expats and digital nomads? Click here to learn more.
Expat Exchange | Fiji Index
Expat Exchange
Free MembershipSign In
Expat Exchange > Fiji

Fiji

  Coastal   Beaches  

Fiji is an archipelago located in the South Pacific Ocean, comprising more than 300 islands and 500 islets. The country is known for its lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and stunning coral reefs. Viti Levu and Vanua Levu are the two largest islands, where most of the population resides. Suva, on Viti Levu, is the capital and a hub of commerce and administration. Fiji's population is diverse, with indigenous Fijians, Indo-Fijians, and a mix of other ethnic groups contributing to a rich cultural tapestry. The indigenous culture is celebrated through music, dance, and traditional ceremonies. English, Fijian, and Hindi are widely spoken, reflecting the country's colonial history and Indian community. Fiji's economy is based on tourism, sugar exports, and remittances from Fijians working abroad. The tourism industry capitalizes on Fiji's natural beauty, offering visitors a chance to experience its white-sand beaches, clear lagoons, and coral diving spots. The climate is tropical marine, with minimal extremes in temperature and a rainy season from November to April. Fiji is also known for its commitment to environmental sustainability, with numerous initiatives aimed at preserving its pristine ecosystems. Despite its beauty and resources, Fiji faces challenges such as vulnerability to climate change and political instability that has seen several coups since independence in 1970. Nevertheless, the Fijian spirit remains resilient, and the country continues to attract travelers from around the world seeking paradise.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Fiji is considered moderate. While some goods and services may be more expensive due to importation costs, overall expenses for housing, local food, and transportation are reasonable for locals and expatriates alike.

Weather

Fiji has a warm tropical climate perfect for beachside holidays. Maximum temperatures rarely move out of the 31°C (88°F) to 26°C (79°F) range all year round. The best months for holidaying in regards to Fiji weather is late March through to early December.

Educational System Fiji

The educational system in Fiji is structured similarly to that of the British system, reflecting the country's colonial past. Education in Fiji is compulsory and free for children between the ages of 6 and 14. The school year in Fiji typically starts in January and ends in December, with breaks in April, August, and December. The education system is divided into three levels: primary, secondary, and tertiary. Primary education lasts for six years, known as Class 1 through Class 6. After completing primary school, students move on to secondary education, which consists of four years of junior secondary (Forms 3 to 6) and two years of senior secondary education (Forms 7 and 8). Students take the Fiji Eighth Year Exam at the end of Class 6 to transition to secondary school, and the Fiji Junior Certificate Examination at the end of Form 4. The Fiji School Leaving Certificate is taken at the end of Form 6, and the Fiji Seventh Form Examination or the Fiji Year 13 Certificate is taken at the end of Form 7. These examinations are crucial for progression to tertiary education or the workforce. The quality of education in Fiji varies, with urban schools generally having better resources and facilities than rural schools. English is the medium of instruction in most schools, which is beneficial for expatriate families. However, Fijian and Hindi are also taught as part of the curriculum.

Best Places to Live in Fiji
Discover the top-ranked towns in Fiji. Click on the town's name for a full profile of each town.
Rankings are based on a combination of many factors including schools, recreation, family-friendliness, cost of living and crime.
Connect with Our Partners
Connect with our trusted local partners in Fiji and around the world through our Partner Connect tool. From moving companies to expat health insurance and more, our partners are here to help.
iVisa Cigna Global Health SJB Global William Russell GeoBlue Universal Tax Professionals  PassportCard Expat Health Insurance The Relocator Traveling Mailbox AGS Worldwide Movers

Visa & Residency

Obtaining a residency visa in Fiji involves several steps and can be considered an average challenge for expats. The most common types of residency visas are the Fiji Residence Visa and the Work Permit. To apply for a Fiji Residence Visa, expats must first secure a job offer or establish a business in Fiji. The employer or business must then apply for approval from the Fiji Immigration Department. Once approved, the expat can apply for the visa by submitting the necessary documents, which typically include a completed application form, passport-sized photos, a valid passport, a police clearance report, a medical report, and evidence of financial stability. For those looking to work in Fiji, a Work Permit is required. The application process for a Work Permit is similar to that of the Residence Visa, with the addition of requiring a contract of employment from a Fijian company. The employer is usually responsible for applying for the Work Permit on behalf of the expat. Digital nomads often use the Tourist Visa, which allows them to stay in Fiji for up to four months. This visa can be obtained upon arrival for citizens of many countries and can be extended for up to six months with an application to the Department of Immigration. The process for obtaining residency can be straightforward if all the required documents are in order and the expat meets all the criteria set by the Fijian government. However, it can become challenging if there are issues with documentation or if the expat does not meet the financial or health requirements. It is advisable for expats to consult with the Fiji Immigration Department or a legal professional specializing in Fijian immigration law to ensure a smooth application process.

Living in Fiji

Healthcare in Fiji

Fiji's healthcare system includes both public and private healthcare services. The public healthcare system is accessible to all Fijians and is free at the point of delivery, funded by the government. However, the quality of public healthcare can vary, with urban areas typically having better facilities and more resources than rural ones. Private healthcare in Fiji offers higher quality services with more modern facilities and shorter waiting times, but at a higher cost. Expats and digital nomads can access public healthcare once they have the appropriate visa and permits, but many opt for private health insurance to cover private healthcare costs.

Copyright 1997-2025 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal Partners & Local Guides