A one-year tourist visa?!

Hello All!

I've read at various website - including state departments - that the Solomon Islands have a one year tourist visa? Is this true? Has anyone had any problems staying here as a tourist for one year and then departing? Also, the cost of living as a "backpacker" - any ideas on cheap living? Average cost of a hostel? Cheap bite to eat? Any info you could provide would be greatly appreciated!

Cheers,

Andrew

Not sure about a year-long visa, I suspect that might have to be arranged in advance. But I don't really know. You can get an entry visa for 3 months at the airport, which can then be extended to 6 months through the immigration department. At a cost, of course.

Ozziegiraffe should know more.

This is my 3rd attempt to post a reply to this thread - the last 2 have been lost in the ether.
As far as I know, what Watsoff said is true. If you come from certain countries (eg Australia, New Zealand, UK) you are issued with a free visa on arrival, for up to 3 months, depending on the date of your ticket out of the country. This can be extended at the immigration department for up to 3 months. You cannot stay longer than 6 months in any 2-year period.
The only other possibility is a residence permit, usually issued with a work permit, which is issued for 2 years. This has to be applied for before arriving.
(I am wondering what internet sites indicated you could stay as a tourist for up to a year?)
Accommodation costs in Honiara can be checked out here
For budget accommodation, Chester House is recommended, but you need to book well in advance (send me a PM and I will send you their email address).
Accommodation in Provincial capitals is usually in rest houses (there is no designated backpacker accommodation) . Many have cooking facilities.
Local food is cheap, but availability varies widely. (Auki market is great, but it is very hard to find fresh food in Buala, for example). Anything imported is very expensive.
Check this site for all sorts of different options.
Village accommodation is usually quite reasonable, and will include food usually. One example, the Lau village stay is $150 SBD per person a day including food. However, travel around the lagoon by outboard is extra, and petrol is expensive. If you have plenty of time, travel between islands by local ferry, and in the backs of trucks where there are roads. Planes are expensive, and need to be booked in advance. The more remote the airport, the less reliable the service.