No doubt a top tourist destination, Palau’s alluring qualities involve pristine blue waters, coral reefs, rare sea creatures, a vast array of flora and fauna including mangroves, exotic birds and tropical weather. The peoples, as one would expect from this region, are hospitable, sociable and amiable; perhaps to the point where expats don’t really want to leave all the niceness and the carefree island lifestyle. Before taking a trip to this wonderful gem, have a look-see at some useful information.
- Expat Clubs
- Schools
- Local News Sources
- Country Information
- Resident and Work visa information
- How to get a driving license
- Where to live and about the accomodation types
- Healthcare information including Hospitals and Insurance
Expat Clubs
There are no expat meet up clubs as such in Palau and most expats communicate online through websites such as ExpatWoman.com.
International Schools
Palau Community Language
Palau Community College has been accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC) – Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) for thirty-six years. The college was evaluated and continued to receive reaffirmation from 1977, 1982, 1988, 1992, 1998, 2004 and 2010. The college is due for evaluation in 2015-2016.
Address: P.O. Box 9, Koror, Republic of Palau 96940
Tel: +680 488-2470
Fax: +680 488-2447
Website: pcc.palau.edu
Local News in English
The Island Times
Launched on Nov. 4, 2005, Island Times has since undergone tremendous growth in its less than three full years of publication. Today, Island Times - which debuted as a weekly newspaper with just four employees - has a revamped look, employs about 20 staff, publishes twice a week and the circulation has more than doubled.
Website: www.islandtimes.us
Country Information
Location: Pacific
Capital City: Melekeok
Other Important Cities: Koror
Currency: US Dollar
Language: English, Palauan
Calling Code: +680
Internet TLD: .pw
Electricity: The country runs on 115/230V 60Hz. Electricity is managed by the Palau Public Utility Corporation
Address: P.O. box 1372, Oldiais Bldg. Medalaii Koror, Palau 96940
Website; www.ppuc.com
Emergency Numbers: 911
Country Information
en.wikipedia.org
Embassy Information
If you're looking for your local embassy in Palau then check out this website, we found it really helpful...
embassy.goabroad.com/embassies-in/palau
Residents Visa and Work Permit information
Residency and Visa Information
Visitors from any country may enter the country and receive a 30-day Tourist Visa, which can be extended within 7 days, upon approval from the Chief of Immigration. The maximum number days expats may stay in the country is 90 days, after which they must exit. There is a departure tax of $50 upon departure.
Documents required
- Valid passport for 6 months
- Proof of Return Arrangements
From Palau Visitor Authority site: pristineparadisepalau.com
Accommodation
Stay in Palau is limited to short-term, tourist visits. The most preferable housing is hotel accommodations. Koror has most of these hotels, but these tend to be crowded and hectic with tourists. The southern islands offer more serene and tranquil temporary accommodations. Foreigners can expect steep prices, as Palau is not a budget-friendly travel destination. Hotel rooms start at about $300 per night. Some expats prefer renting guesthouses, which are more economical.
Driving License
An international driving license is valid to drive in Palau for 30 days. Beyond that, expats must apply for a Palauan license. The government body concerned with issuing licenses is the Bureau of Public Safety.
Address: Republic of Palau National Government, P.O. Box 6051, Koror, Palau 96940
Tel: Tel. (680) 488-2423
Fax. (680)488-3075
Website: palaugov.org/bureau-of-public-safety
Healthcare
Medical facilities and services in Palau are adequate for routine, basic care, but is limited. Complex, serious treatments and cases are usually evacuated to the US or elsewhere. It is important to secure a comprehensive medical insurance that can cover or reimburse costs. Hospitals accept credit cards and debit cards however it is more common to encounter cash payments especially in private clinics.
Insurance Companies
Cigna Global Health Options
Cigna Global Health Options specialise in providing expatriate health plans that are designed to give comprehensive overseas medical cover for people who are living and working abroad. They provide medical evacuation insurance cover.
Website: www.cignaglobal.com
MSH International ASFE
For twenty years, ASFE has designed and managed international healthcare insurance solutions for all mobile individuals:
- Expatriates living abroad alone or with their families,
- Students, interns and young people with "Working Holiday Visas",
- Self-employed persons or company employees,
- Seniors
Website: www.asfe-expat.com
Hospitals
Palau Medical Centre
Address: P.O. Box 822, Koror, 96940, Palau
Belau National Hospital
Address: 96940 Meyungs, Palau
Tel: +680 488 2552
