Living in Papua New Guinea
Last updated on Feb 01, 2024
Summary: The approximate population of Papua New Guinea is 8.6 million people. The largest cities in Papua New Guinea are Port Moresby, Lae, and Mount Hagen. Expats love living in Papua New Guinea for its diverse culture, stunning landscapes, and friendly people. Life in Papua New Guinea is often described as laid-back and relaxed, with a strong sense of community. Foods popular in Papua New Guinea include seafood, pork, sweet potatoes, taro, and sago. The cons of living in Papua New Guinea include a lack of infrastructure, limited access to healthcare, and a high crime rate. The average cost of living for an expat is around $2,000-$3,000 USD per month. This includes rent, food, transportation, and other expenses.
What do I need to know about living in Papua New Guinea?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Papua New Guinea, they said:
"Before retiring in Papua New Guinea, expats should be aware of the country's tropical climate and the potential for natural disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis, and cyclones. Expats should also be aware of the country's high crime rate and the need to take extra precautions when travelling. Additionally, expats should research the cost of living in the country and the availability of healthcare and other services. Finally, expats should be aware of the cultural differences between their home country and Papua New Guinea, and be prepared to adapt to the local customs and traditions," said one expat who made the move to Papua New Guinea.
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SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
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How do I meet people in Papua New Guinea?
When we asked people living in Papua New Guinea about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Expats in Papua New Guinea often join clubs and activities such as golf, tennis, sailing, and rugby. Expats also join social clubs, such as the Port Moresby Expatriate Club, which organizes events and activities for expats. Additionally, expats often meet people through their work, by attending local events, or by joining local churches or other religious organizations. Expats can also meet people by attending local festivals, such as the Goroka Show, or by joining local sports teams," remarked one expat living in Papua New Guinea.
SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
What is life like in Papua New Guinea?
When we asked people living in Papua New Guinea what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Life for expats and digital nomads in Papua New Guinea can be both exciting and challenging. The country is home to a diverse range of cultures and landscapes, making it an ideal destination for those looking to explore and experience something new. Expats and digital nomads will find that the cost of living is relatively low, and the country is well-connected with reliable internet access. However, the infrastructure is still developing, and the language barrier can be a challenge. Expats and digital nomads should also be aware of the potential risks associated with living in a developing country, such as crime and health risks. Despite these challenges, many expats and digital nomads find that the rewards of living in Papua New Guinea far outweigh the risks," explained one expat living in Papua New Guinea.
Is there a lot of crime in Papua New Guinea?
We asked people if there is a lot of crime. They answered:
"Yes, there is a significant amount of crime in Papua New Guinea. Violent crime, such as murder, rape, and armed robbery, is common in many parts of the country. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft, is also prevalent. In addition, there is a growing problem with organized crime, including drug trafficking and human trafficking," explained one expat living in Papua New Guinea.
Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Papua New Guinea accepting of differences?
"Papua New Guinea is a culturally diverse nation, with over 800 distinct languages spoken by its population. People in Papua New Guinea are generally accepting of differences, and the country has a long history of peaceful coexistence between its many different ethnic and cultural groups," said one expat who made the move to Papua New Guinea.
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SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
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What are the schools in Papua New Guinea like?
"The International School of Lae (ISL) is one of the best international schools in Papua New Guinea. Located in the city of Lae, ISL offers a comprehensive education program for students from pre-kindergarten to grade 12. The school follows an American-style curriculum and provides a range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art. ISL also offers a range of support services, such as counseling and special education. The Port Moresby International School (PMIS) is another excellent international school in Papua New Guinea. Located in the capital city of Port Moresby, PMIS offers a comprehensive education program for students from pre-kindergarten to grade 12. The school follows an American-style curriculum and provides a range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art. PMIS also offers a range of support services, such as counseling and special education. The Bilingual Education Centre (BEC) is one of the best bilingual schools in Papua New Guinea. Located in the city of Lae, BEC offers a comprehensive education program for students from pre-kindergarten to grade 12. The school follows a bilingual curriculum, with classes taught in both English and Tok Pisin. BEC also provides a range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art. The school also offers a range of support services, such as counseling and special education," said one parent with children at in .
Is the cost of living in Papua New Guinea high?
We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Papua New Guinea, they wrote:
"The cost of living in Papua New Guinea is generally considered to be relatively high. Prices for basic goods and services such as food, housing, transportation, and utilities are generally higher than in many other countries. The cost of living in the capital city of Port Moresby is particularly high, with prices for goods and services being significantly higher than in other parts of the country. Additionally, the cost of imported goods is also higher due to the country's limited access to international markets," remarked one expat who made the move to Papua New Guinea.
"The cost of living in Papua New Guinea is generally considered to be quite high. The capital city of Port Moresby is the most expensive place to live in the country, with prices for goods and services being significantly higher than in other parts of the country. The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Port Moresby is around $1,000 USD per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can cost up to $1,500 USD per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Port Moresby can cost around $20 USD per person," commented one expat living in Papua New Guinea.
What type of recreational facilities are in Papua New Guinea?
When we asked people living in Papua New Guinea about recreational activities, they mentioned:
"In Papua New Guinea, residents enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as beaches, parks, and sports fields. There are also many outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping, and fishing. For those who prefer indoor activities, there are cinemas, bowling alleys, and shopping malls. Additionally, there are a variety of cultural activities, such as traditional dancing, music, and art. Finally, there are many festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Goroka Show and the Mount Hagen Cultural Show," commented one expat living in Papua New Guinea.
What is the weather like in Papua New Guinea?
"The climate in Papua New Guinea is tropical and humid, with temperatures ranging from warm to hot throughout the year. The wet season runs from November to April, with heavy rainfall and high humidity. The dry season runs from May to October, with cooler temperatures and less rainfall. The country experiences frequent tropical cyclones and occasional earthquakes," wrote one expat living in Papua New Guinea.
Are there good restaurants in Papua New Guinea?
"One of the most popular restaurants in Papua New Guinea is the Pacific Harbour Restaurant. Located in the capital city of Port Moresby, the restaurant offers a variety of local and international dishes. The restaurant is known for its fresh seafood, including crayfish, prawns, and barramundi. The restaurant also serves traditional dishes such as saksak, a type of dumpling made from sweet potato, and kokoda, a fish dish made with coconut milk. The restaurant also offers a range of desserts, including the popular banana split. The restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere and is a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family. Another popular restaurant in Papua New Guinea is the Loloata Island Resort. Located on a private island off the coast of Port Moresby, the resort offers a range of international and local dishes. The restaurant is known for its fresh seafood, including crayfish, prawns, and barramundi. The restaurant also serves traditional dishes such as saksak, a type of dumpling made from sweet potato, and kokoda, a fish dish made with coconut milk. The restaurant also offers a range of desserts, including the popular banana split. The restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere and is a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family. The Grand Papua Hotel is another popular restaurant in Papua New Guinea. Located in the heart of Port Moresby, the hotel offers a range of international and local dishes. The restaurant is known for its fresh seafood, including crayfish, prawns, and barramundi. The restaurant also serves traditional dishes such as saksak, a type of dumpling made from sweet potato, and kokoda, a fish dish made with coconut milk. The restaurant also offers a range of desserts, including the popular banana split. The restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere and is a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family," remarked one expat living in Papua New Guinea.
Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Papua New Guinea?
"People living in Papua New Guinea typically buy groceries and do other shopping at local markets, supermarkets, and convenience stores. Many villages also have small shops that sell basic items such as food, clothing, and household items. Additionally, some people may travel to larger towns and cities to purchase items that are not available in their local area," commented one expat who moved to Papua New Guinea.
What are the visa & residency requirements in Papua New Guinea?
"To apply for a visa to Papua New Guinea, travelers must submit an application form, a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs, and proof of sufficient funds to cover their stay. Depending on the purpose of the visit, additional documents may be required. Once the application is approved, a visa will be issued. To apply for residency in Papua New Guinea, applicants must submit an application form, a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs, proof of sufficient funds to cover their stay, and a police clearance certificate. Depending on the purpose of the residency, additional documents may be required. Once the application is approved, a residency permit will be issued," said one expat living in Papua New Guinea.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Papua New Guinea?
"Healthcare and health insurance in Papua New Guinea can be expensive, especially for those who are not covered by the government's health insurance scheme. Private health insurance is available, but it can be costly and may not cover all medical expenses. The cost of medical care in Papua New Guinea is generally higher than in other countries, and the quality of care can vary significantly. Additionally, access to healthcare can be limited in some areas, making it difficult for people to receive the care they need," mentioned one expat inPapua New Guinea.
SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- How do I meet people in Papua New Guinea?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- Is there a lot of crime in Papua New Guinea?
- What do I need to know before retiring in Papua New Guinea?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Papua New Guinea accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Papua New Guinea like?
- Is the cost of living in Papua New Guinea high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Papua New Guinea?
- What are healthcare services like in Papua New Guinea?
- Is the cost of living in Papua New Guinea high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in Papua New Guinea?
- What is the weather like in Papua New Guinea?
- Are there good restaurants in Papua New Guinea?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Papua New Guinea?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Papua New Guinea?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Papua New Guinea?
- What do I need to know when buying property in Papua New Guinea?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in Papua New Guinea?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?