Fiji is a beautiful country in the South Pacific that is famous for many things. It is known for its secluded beaches, lush rainforests and incredible marine life. Besides, the country also has a great climate that ranges from temperate to subtropical.
Most of the popular islands like Nadi, Kadavu and Suva are located in this area. However, what is unique about Fiji is its diverse culture, with people of European, Asian and Polynesian descent living here alongside the native Fijians.
If you’ve been thinking about moving to Fiji but don’t know where to start or what to expect, here’s what you should know before you pack your bags!
What do you need to know before you move to Fiji?
Fiji is an island nation in the South Pacific with a population of about 905,000 and is located between Tonga and New Zealand. The country consists of over 300 islands scattered over an area of more than 18,000 square kilometers. The country has two official languages: English and Fijian.
The types of accommodation in Fiji
Depending on what you are looking for and what your budget is, there are many different types of accommodations in Fiji. For those who want to live like locals, there are also apartments and villas that can be rented by the day or week.
There are also less populated islands that offer more secluded and private accommodations. Whatever your needs, there is an accommodation option to suit every budget!
The cost of living once you move to Fiji.
The cost of living in Fiji is difficult to determine because it depends on so many factors. However, one thing is for sure – the cost of living is a bit lower than what you are used to in Switzerland.
The cost depends on the city you live in and how much you spend. For example, the monthly rent can range from 250 to 950 CHF per month.
Advantages and disadvantages of moving to Fiji
Fiji is a great place to live for many reasons. The climate is fantastic, the people are friendly, and there are many opportunities for foreigners.
However, Fiji is not perfect. If you are considering moving to Fiji, you should consider some pros and cons before making your decision.
Advantages
- The weather is pleasant with a range from temperate to subtropical.
- The people are friendly
- There are many opportunities for foreigners
Disadvantages
- It can be expensive because it is an island nation with limited resources.
- The roads can be bumpy and difficult to navigate if you don’t know your way around.
After moving to Fiji, what is the safety situation like?
Although there are some reports of petty crime in Fiji, the country is generally quite safe. However, it is advisable to be cautious and not leave valuables in your car or backpack when you are traveling.
Fiji is considered one of the safest countries in the world due to its low crime rate. Compared to other Pacific Rim countries such as Tonga and Samoa, Fiji ranks among the top in terms of safety.
As a foreigner living in Fiji, you will receive a police reference number for any incidents that occur during your stay here. The police will take your report and conduct the necessary investigation. If you have been assaulted or robbed, contact your local police station immediately for assistance.
What people you will meet after you move to Fiji
Fiji is a melting pot of different cultures and communities. In the past, many Europeans were brought to Fiji as part of the serfdom system. Today, once you move to Fiji, you will meet people from all over the world – including Chinese, Indians, Australians, New Zealanders and Polynesians.
But most importantly, Fijians make up 97% of the population. Fiji has a thriving indigenous culture that has been heavily influenced by Christianity and traditional customs.
Get to know the local cuisine after moving to Fiji
Fiji has a rich and diverse cuisine influenced by its many different cultures. You’ll find everything from European to Asian dishes on the menu, and most meals are delicious and affordable.
Fijians eat a lot of root vegetables and fruits, and they also have an interesting breakfast dish called kokoda, which consists of toast, eggs, and sugar or some kind of baked goods.
You should also try the traditional Fijian drink called bula. It is made from sugar cane juice, water and coconut milk and tastes fantastic!
How to get a visa for your move to Fiji
You can’t just fly to Fiji and live there like a tropical vacationer. But luckily, it’s not too difficult to get a visa once you’ve been accepted as a resident.
The Fiji Immigration website has detailed information on the procedure for obtaining a residency permit. Essentially, you will need to fill out an application form and submit appropriate documentation. You can also contact the Immigration Department by email or phone for further assistance.
The process takes about two weeks and costs 45 to 55 CHF, with possible additional processing fees. You can pay online with your credit card.
Now you can start planning your move to Fiji in more detail. We are sure that you will quickly take this country in the South Pacific into your heart.
In case you still have some questions or need some help, we are of course at your disposal. Our goal is to support you with your move as good as we can.