Welcome to Protocol Section
The dedicated arm of our Ministry focused on facilitating international engagement and ensuring smooth diplomatic interactions. Our team provides expert guidance on diplomatic protocols, coordinates official events, and supports dignitaries with the utmost attention to cultural and formal standards. From organizing high-level ceremonies to ensuring diplomatic privileges and immunities, we uphold excellence and efficiency in every detail, fostering seamless communication and strong international relationships. Our services are tailored to promote respect, collaboration, and mutual understanding in all our foreign affairs engagements. Protocol Division consisted of three officers: one Protocol Officer and two Assistant Protocol Officers. Together, we are committed to delivering impactful results, working in close collaboration to handle the diverse responsibilities of the Protocol Section.
OUR KEY ROLES AND FUNCTIONS INCLUDE:
- VIP Lounge Facilitation: We oversee the VIP Lounge at Bonriki International Airport.
- Visa Application Conveyance: We assist Government officials by conveying their completed visa applications to our diplomatic partners through official diplomatic channels.
- Diplomatic Protocol and Event Coordination: We provide guidance on diplomatic protocols, coordinate official events, and support dignitaries with meticulous attention to cultural and formal standards.
- Protocol Assistance for Government Functions: We offer protocol assistance to all Heads of Missions with residence in Kiribati for official Government functions, including those held in the Outer Islands.
- Port Courtesies: We ensure port courtesies are accorded to Heads of State and Government, Heads of Missions, Special Envoys, and other dignitaries of similar rank.
- Repatriation Services: We assist both national and foreign nationals with repatriation, facilitating their return to Kiribati or assisting foreigners in returning to their home countries.
- Issuance of Letters of Credentials: We assist in issuing letters of credentials to Government Officials as needed.
Our Protocol Section is here to support the Ministry’s diplomatic objectives with precision, professionalism, and dedication to upholding the highest standards of courtesy and respect.”
Visa Procedures, Processing, Requirements and Important Advisory
In an effort to streamline the visa application process and ensure timely submissions, this memorandum serves as a reminder to all government employees of the proper procedures, processing times, and requirements for visa applications. These guidelines are based on instructions received from our diplomatic partners, including New Zealand, Australia, the United States, Japan, and China. Please ensure that the procedures below are strictly followed to avoid delays or complications with your travel plans. Visa Submission Procedures and Timelines Visa applications must be submitted in a timely manner. Late submissions will not be accepted. All employees are expected to strictly adhere to the established visa procedures and processing timelines to ensure smooth and timely processing.
Please note the following:
- Visas for Australia, New Zealand and China will be processed in Tarawa through our office.
- Visas for the United States, Japan, Korea, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea will be processed in Fiji.
- Visas for other countries not listed above will be processed in Australia or New Zealand, which may require additional processing time.
Visa Requirements
To apply for a visa, the following documents are required:
1. Ministry support letter
2. Invitation letter from the event or meeting organizers
3. Travel itinerary
4. Passport biodata page
5. Completed visa application form
6. Visa application reference number (if applicable), IMMI Acknowledgment
letter (only for Australia) and DS-160 Confirmation page (only for US)
7. Police Clearance (only for NZ)
Visa Applications Online Websites:
Here are some helpful websites to apply visa online for ease of access, only for the following countries mentioned below:
- Australia – https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/
- US – https://ceac.state.gov/genniv/
- Thailand – https://thaievisa.go.th/
- NZ Transit visa – https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/visas/visa/nzeta, download NZL Visa application form at this link application form