Fiji requires 72 hour pre-flight data transmissions starting Nov. 2

Airlines flying into Fiji will begin transmitting passenger booking and identity records to border authorities before takeoff starting Nov. 2.

How the 72-hour pre-flight screening works

Under the Immigration Amendment Act 2026, international carriers must send Advance Passenger Information (API) and Passenger Name Record (PNR) details to Fijian immigration up to 72 hours before flight departure. The system allows border officials to assess inbound travelers before they board rather than processing them entirely upon arrival at Nadi or Nausori airports.

The transmitted data includes standard passport biographics alongside airline reservation details such as contact information, payment methods, travel itineraries and listed companions. The legislation permits authorities to store this travel data for 5 years, though records must be depersonalised after 2 years unless retained for active border investigations.

What travelers should expect at check-in

The automated screening applies to all inbound air travelers, including tourists, returning residents and remote workers planning an extended stay under Fiji's entry rules.

The rollout involves no new visa fees or separate pre-travel registration forms for passengers. Instead, processing occurs in the background between airlines and immigration systems developed with technology provider SITA.

Because flagged discrepancies in booking records can trigger secondary security checks, offloading or delayed boarding clearance at departure gates, travelers should ensure that passenger names on flight reservations match their valid passport details letter for letter before check-in opens.