Solomon Islands implements tourism growth and border reforms

The Solomon Islands is implementing significant reforms to bolster its tourism sector and border security. International visitor arrivals in 2025 reached 28,548, a 13.6 percent increase over 2024. This figure approaches the pre-pandemic record set in 2019.

To support this growth, the government has announced a record tourism budget of SBD 46.4 million for 2026. This funding is intended for overseas marketing, infrastructure expansion, and cultural heritage protection.

Simultaneously, the government has launched a new Electronic Visa System and the Solomon Islands Border Management System (BMS). This digital transition allows for online visa applications and decisions, aimed at reducing processing times and improving accessibility. The new regime introduces 34 visa categories and provides pre-entry authorization for an initial 30-day visa-free period for approved applicants.