FRCS Clarifies Australian Visitor’s Departure Arrangements               

The Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) confirms that the captain of a yacht with a three-person crew voluntarily advised FRCS in writing that the Australian visitor concerned would not travel to its next overseas port of call. FRCS took this declaration into account when processing the yacht’s outward clearance.

Under section 72(1) of the Customs Act 1986, a vessel’s master must obtain clearance before departing Fiji for an overseas destination. Section 72(2)(b) and (c) require the master, owner or authorised agent to answer questions about the vessel, crew, passengers, and voyage, and provide the required vessel and passenger documentation. The departure documentation therefore needed to accurately reflect who would travel aboard the yacht.

The captain initially held the visitor’s passport. FRCS subsequently liaised with Immigration, and the passport has since been returned to him.

FRCS did not detain the visitor. FRCS understands that he holds a valid outbound ticket and is expected to leave Fiji by the end of October 2026.

FRCS remains committed to fulfilling its border protection responsibilities under the Customs Act and treating all visitors to Fiji’s ports with courtesy, respect and in accordance with the law.

Last Updated - 16 hours ago