Is Vanuatu cashless?
Cash preferred#123 of 197 in The Cashlessy Index 2026 · #5 of 14 in Oceania
Short answer: Bring or withdraw enough cash for your trip. Cards will rarely help.
Resorts and restaurants in Port Vila take cards. Outer islands are cash only.
Will my card work?
Only in some places. Expect cards to work at larger hotels and a few big businesses in Vanuatu, and little else.
Do I need cash?
Yes, plenty. Most payments in Vanuatu are made in cash, so plan how you will get it.
Local currency: Vanuatu vatu (VUV)
How does tipping work?
Not customary.
Mobile payments
No widely used mobile wallets for visitors. Stick to cards where accepted, and cash.
Frequently asked questions
Is Vanuatu cashless?
Vanuatu scores 30/100 on Cashlessy (cash preferred), ranking #123 of 197 countries. Resorts and restaurants in Port Vila take cards. Outer islands are cash only.
Do I need cash in Vanuatu?
Yes, plenty. Most payments in Vanuatu are made in cash, so plan how you will get it.
Are credit cards accepted in Vanuatu?
Only in some places. Expect cards to work at larger hotels and a few big businesses in Vanuatu, and little else.
Do you tip in Vanuatu?
Not customary.
Compare with Oceania
Editorial estimate, last reviewed September 2026. Payment habits change quickly; see how we score.