FIJI is set to impose significantly tougher penalties for serious travel document offences under the proposed Passports (Amendment) Bill 2026, with fines and jail terms increased tenfold in some cases.
One of the most notable changes targets offences involving the unauthorised alteration or misuse of passports, where penalties will rise from a maximum of $10,000 and five years imprisonment to up to $100,000 or 10 years in prison, or both.
The amendment reflects a broader effort by Government to strengthen deterrence against fraud, forgery and abuse of official documents.
According to the Bill, the revised penalties will apply to serious breaches, including tampering with travel documents or engaging in activities that compromise their integrity.
“On conviction … a fine not exceeding $100,000 or imprisonment for a term not exceeding 10 years or both,” the provision states, marking one of the toughest sanctions in the legislation.
The explanatory note highlights that existing penalties were considered too low and insufficient to deter offences, prompting the significant increase.
“The Bill also seeks to increase the current penalties… as they are currently quite low and do not serve as an adequate deterrent,” it states.
The tougher sanctions form part of wider reforms aimed at modernising Fiji’s travel document system, improving security, and aligning with international standards.
The proposed Bill was introduced in Parliament last Friday.
New Bill to strengthen deportation rules
THE proposed Immigration (Amendment) Bill 2026 will allow authorities to use “reasonable force” when
carrying out deportations, as part of a broader overhaul of Fiji’s removal and enforcement framework.
Under the Bill, that was tabled in Parliament last Friday, the permanent secretary is empowered to
issue written removal orders directing prohibited immigrants to leave Fiji, with clear authority to
enforce those orders if individuals do not comply.
“An order … must be carried into effect… including removal of the person by use of reasonable force if
necessary,” the Bill states.
The provision signals a tougher stance on immigration enforcement, giving officers the legal backing to ensure deportation orders are executed.
The Bill also outlines that individuals subject to removal may be held in custody — including prison,
police custody or other authorised facilities — while arrangements are made for their departure.
In addition, transport operators such as airlines and shipping companies can be required to carry deportees, with penalties for refusal.
Officials say the inclusion of “reasonable force” is intended to ensure compliance in situations where
individuals resist lawful removal, while still operating within legal boundaries.
The legislation maintains that deportations must follow due process, including written orders and clear procedures on how removals are to be carried out.
At the same time, the Bill introduces a voluntary departure option, allowing some individuals to leave
Fiji without forced removal, provided they comply within a specified timeframe.
“If a person departs Fiji … the person may be deemed not to have been removed or deported,” the Bill
notes.
The reforms form part of a wider effort to modernise Fiji’s immigration system, strengthen border control
and streamline enforcement.
Move to grant refugee travel access
FIJI is set to formalise travel rights for recognised refugees under the proposed Passports (Amendment)
Bill 2026, introducing a clear legal framework for the issuance of refugee travel documents.
Under the Bill, that was tabled in Parliament on Friday, individuals officially recognised as refugees in
Fiji will be eligible to receive a refugee travel document, allowing them to travel internationally
where appropriate.
“A person is eligible for a refugee travel document if the person has been recognised as a refugee in Fiji,”
the Bill states, linking eligibility directly to recognition under existing immigration laws.
The document will be issued by the permanent secretary and will be valid for up to five years,
providing longer-term mobility compared to other temporary travel documents.
Importantly, the Bill removes financial barriers by stating that no application fee is required for a
refugee travel document, a move aimed at ensuring accessibility for vulnerable individuals. However, the
legislation also includes safeguards.
Authorities may refuse to issue a travel document if there are legal or security concerns, including
outstanding arrest warrants or risks to public safety and national security.
In addition, the minister retains the power to block issuance if a person is deemed likely to engage in
conduct that could threaten the security, safety or rights of others, in line with international human
rights standards.
Fiji to tighten citizenship provisions
FIJI is set to tighten its citizenship framework under the proposed Citizenship of Fiji (Amendment) Bill
2026, introducing stricter residency requirements and clearer pathways for those seeking to become
citizens.
The Bill, that was tabled in Parliament on May 1, links eligibility for citizenship more closely to lawful
residence and long-term commitment, with new conditions for both registration and naturalisation.
For individuals married to Fijian citizens, the law sets a defined pathway. Applicants must have been
lawfully present in Fiji for at least three of the five years before applying.
However, from January 1, 2030, applicants will also be required to hold a permanent residence permit to
qualify.
Naturalisation rules are also being strengthened.
Applicants must have lived in Fiji for eight out of the previous 10 years, demonstrate good character, intend to remain in the country, and show knowledge of the English language and civic responsibilities.
From 2035, an additional requirement will take effect, making it mandatory for applicants to hold a
valid permanent residence permit before applying for citizenship. The Bill also clarifies that temporary
stays will not count towards residency requirements, excluding time spent under visitor, study, research or
special permits.
