Papua New Guinea - Consular Information Sheet
July 9, 1993

Country Description:  Papua New Guinea is a parliamentary democracy.  
Tourist facilities are somewhat limited.

Entry Requirements:  A passport and onward or return ticket are required. As 
of February 10, 1993, travelers may obtain 30 day tourist and single entry 
business visas issued upon arrival at Port Moresby's Jackson Airport.  An 
AIDS test is required for a work permit. For longer stays and more current 
information, the traveler may contact the Embassy of Papua New Guinea, Suite 
300, 1615 New Hampshire Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20009, tel. (202) 745-
3680.

Areas of Instability:  The government of Papua New Guinea does not allow 
travel to Bougainville, the largest island in the North Solomon Province, 
because of an active armed insurgency.  An Indonesian secessionist group 
remains active along the largely inaccessible Papua New Guinea/Indonesia 
border.

Medical Facilities:  Medical Facilities in Port Moresby are generally 
adequate for emergencies.  Most serious endemic diseases, such as malaria, 
cholera, dengue fever and hepatitis B, are not a problem for travelers.  
Hospitals and pharmacies are small and limited to urban centers and 
missions.  Malaria prophylaxis are often used.  Doctors and hospitals often 
expect immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S. medical insurance 
is not always valid outside the United States.  Supplemental medical 
insurance with specific overseas coverage has proved useful.  More specific 
information on health matters can be obtained from the Centers for Disease 
Control's international travelers hotline, tel. (404) 332-4559.

Information on Crime:  Crime is a concern in Papua New Guinea.  Armed 
robberies and assaults on women have been a problem in Port Moresby and 
other urban centers.  Criminals often victimize and rob persons who are part 
of large crowds, for instance, while attending sporting events, concerts, 
political rallies, etc.  Hitchhiking or hiking in rural areas and visiting 
isolated public areas such as parks, golf courses, beaches, cemeteries, etc. 
is risky.  Persons traveling alone face greater risks than those who are 
part of an organized tour.  Most resident foreigners avoid using public 
motor vehicles or taxis, relying instead on their sponsor or a rental 
vehicle for transport.  Travel outside of Port Moresby by car at night can 
be hazardous.  Visitors can inquire locally concerning security conditions 
before driving between towns.  U.S. citizens may obtain additional 
information on safety precautions from the U.S. Embassy in Port Moresby.  
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately 
to the local police, and the U.S. Embassy.  Useful information on guarding 
valuables and protecting personal security while traveling abroad is 
provided in the Department of State pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad."  It is 
available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing 
Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.

Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws of the country in which 
they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use or trafficking in illegal 
drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.

Registration:  Americans who register at the U.S. Embassy may obtain updated 
information on travel and security within the country.

Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located in Port Moresby City at Armit 
Street.  The mailing address is P.O. Box 1492, APO AE 90553; telephone (675) 
211-455/594/054.

No. 93-188

This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated November 13, 1992 to 
reflect recent changes in procedures for obtaining visas, to add information 
on crime in Papua New Guinea, and to provide information concerning the loss 
or theft abroad of a U.S. passport.