Fiji's status as a developed Pacific economy and its strong digital infrastructure create a promising foundation for freelancers. For native Fijians, freelancing offers a path to leverage their skills in a global market, potentially mitigating the "brain drain" by allowing them to earn international rates while residing locally.
Key opportunities exist in digital marketing, IT support, virtual assistance, and creative fields that serve the massive tourism sector, such as content writing and graphic design.
For foreign freelancers, Fiji presents a unique opportunity to establish a "digital nomad" base; its reliable internet in urban centers, use of English, and welcoming environment make it an ideal hub for remote workers serving clients in Australia, New Zealand, or beyond. However, navigating business registration and tax obligations is crucial for those planning to reside and work from the islands long-term.
Disclaimer: This guide is current as of August 2025 and subject to change. Always consult with a local tax advisor and official sources for the most up-to-date information.
Step 1: Understanding Freelance Options in Fiji
Options for Freelancers
- Informal Operation (Micro-enterprise)
- For: Beginners or those targeting the local market with very low income (<FJD $30,000/year).
- Process: No formal registration required.
- Pros: No registration costs or complex paperwork.
- Cons: Cannot issue official receipts, limited access to business banking, personal liability, not suitable for serious business or international clients.
- Sole Trader / Sole Proprietorship (Recommended)
- For: Most freelancers treating their work as a formal business.
- Process: Register a business name with the Fiji Companies Registry.
- Pros: Legal business identity, can open a business bank account, appears more professional.
- Cons: Personal liability remains.
- Private Limited Company
- For: Established freelancers with high income wanting limited liability protection.
- Process: Incorporate with the Fiji Companies Registry. More complex, requiring a company constitution and details of directors/shareholders.
- Pros: Separates personal assets from business debts.
- Cons: Higher registration costs, more complex compliance and accounting requirements.
Critical Legal Reality for Foreigners
Important: Traditional freelancing requires sponsorship - contractors or freelancers cannot apply for work permits directly without an employer sponsor. However, there are several legitimate business pathways for working in Fiji.
Business and Investment Visa Options
Option 1: Investor Permit (Most Viable for Serious Freelancers)
- 7-year permit: Minimum investment of FJ$500,000 ($222,000 USD)
- 3-year permit: Available for smaller investments (FJ$300,000+)
- Benefits: Can live and work in Fiji, conduct business operations
- Path to citizenship: Serves as foundation for eventual naturalization after establishing residency
Option 2: Business Registration as Local Entity
- For residents/citizens: Full business registration capability
- Sole trader registration: Simplified process for individual service providers
- Partnership/company formation: More complex structures available
Option 3: Tourist Visa + Remote Work (Digital Nomads)
- Duration: 4 months on arrival, extendable to 6 months
- Limitation: Cannot work for Fijian clients or companies
- Best for: Remote workers with foreign clients only
- Legal grey area: Not officially sanctioned but commonly practiced
Industry-Specific Opportunities
Tourism & Hospitality Services
- Travel blogging: Content creation for tourism industry
- Photography/videography: Wedding, resort, destination marketing
- Tour guide services: Specialized eco-tourism, adventure tours
- Hospitality consulting: Resort operations, customer experience
Technology & Digital Services
- Web development: Growing demand from local businesses
- Digital marketing: Tourism marketing, social media management
- E-commerce development: Online stores for local artisans and businesses
- Software consulting: Business management systems
Creative Services
- Graphic design: Tourism brochures, resort marketing materials
- Video production: Promotional content, documentaries
- Photography: Commercial, wedding, tourism photography
- Content creation: Travel writing, cultural documentation
Agriculture & Environment Consulting
- Sustainable farming: Organic agriculture consulting
- Environmental consulting: Conservation, sustainable development
- Marine consulting: Coral reef preservation, diving industry support
- Climate adaptation: Resilience planning for communities
Education & Training Services
- English tutoring: High demand from locals and Pacific Island students
- Business training: Entrepreneurship, digital skills
- Tourism training: Hospitality, guide certification
- Professional development: Management, leadership training
Step 2: Investor Permit Process
Investment Requirements and Options
7-Year Investor Permit
- Investment amount: FJ$500,000 minimum ($222,000 USD)
- Investment types: Direct business investment (no passive investments)
- Business sectors: Tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, services
- Benefits: Multiple entry, work authorization, family inclusion
3-Year Investor Permit
- Investment amount: FJ$300,000+ ($133,000 USD)
- Shorter commitment: Good for testing the market
- Renewable: Can extend or upgrade to 7-year permit
- Same benefits: Work and business operation rights
Application Process
Step 1: Investment Approval (6-8 weeks)
- Fiji Trade and Investment Bureau (FTIB) application
- Business plan submission
- Investment structure proposal
- Market analysis and financial projections
- Economic benefit demonstration
- Foreign Investment Certificate
- FTIB issues Foreign Investment Certificate after approval
- Specifies investment amount and business activities
- Required for immigration permit application
Step 2: Immigration Permit Application (3-4 weeks)
Standard processing is 21 working days, but may vary based on individual circumstances.
Required Documents:
- FTIB investment approval letter and Foreign Investment Certificate
- Certified passport copies, police reports from countries of residence (12+ months in last 10 years)
- Medical reports (within 3 months of application)
- Proof of investment funds
- Business registration documents
- Application fee: Extension fee is $664.50 (initial application fees vary)
Investment Sectors and Opportunities
Tourism Industry Investments
- Boutique accommodations: Eco-lodges, cultural stays
- Adventure tourism: Diving operations, hiking/trekking services
- Cultural tourism: Traditional craft workshops, village experiences
- Digital tourism services: Booking platforms, virtual tours
Technology and Digital Services
- Software development: Business management systems
- E-commerce platforms: Local marketplace development
- Digital marketing agencies: Tourism and local business focus
- Tech education: Coding bootcamps, digital literacy programs
Sustainable Agriculture
- Organic farming: Export-oriented produce
- Agri-tourism: Farm stays, educational tours
- Value-added processing: Coconut products, spices, herbs
- Aquaculture: Sustainable fish farming, seaweed cultivation
Step 3: Business Registration for Locals/Residents
Simplified Business Registration Process
Business Name Registration
As of August 1, 2020, business licensing requirements have been eliminated, making the process much simpler.
Registration Requirements:
- Photo ID with date of birth, TIN card/letter of all individuals
- Business name application (Form A12)
- Foreign investors must declare remitting $300,000 within 3 months of incorporation
Business Classification
Low Risk businesses can start operations immediately but must comply with regulatory requirements within 6 months. High Risk businesses cannot start until all requirements are met.
Low Risk Examples:
- Consulting services
- Digital marketing
- Content creation
- Online services
High Risk Examples:
- Food service
- Tourism operations
- Financial services
- Import/export
Business Structure Options
Sole Trader Registration
- Simplest structure: Individual business ownership
- Unlimited liability: Personal assets at risk
- Tax treatment: Personal income tax rates apply
- Best for: Service-based freelance businesses
Company Registration
- Limited liability: Personal asset protection
- Corporate tax rate: 20% corporate tax rate
- More complex: Additional compliance requirements
- Growth potential: Can hire employees, issue shares
Partnership
- Shared ownership: 2+ partners
- Shared liability: Partners jointly responsible
- Tax flow-through: Profits/losses pass to partners
- Good for: Collaborative service businesses
Step 4: Tax Obligations and Compliance
Individual Income Tax
Tax-Free Threshold
Income up to FJD $30,000 is tax-free, making Fiji attractive for lower-income freelancers.
Progressive Tax Rates (2025)
- FJ$0 - 30,000: 0%
- FJ$30,001 - 50,000: 18%
- FJ$50,001 - 70,000: 25%
- FJ$70,001+: 31%
Business Tax Structure
Corporate Income Tax
- Standard rate: 20% for companies
- Small business: Reduced rates may apply for qualifying small businesses
- Tax holidays: Sector-specific tax holidays for tourism, manufacturing, and agriculture
Value Added Tax (VAT)
- Standard rate: 9% VAT on most goods and services
- Registration threshold: Voluntary for businesses with turnover under FJD $100,000 annually
- Mandatory registration: For businesses exceeding threshold
- Special VAT: 15% VAT on certain prescribed goods and services from April 2022. The current standard VAT (Value Added Tax) rate in Fiji is 12.5%, effective from 1 August 2025.
Tax Registration and Compliance
Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) Registration
- TIN (Tax Identification Number): Required for all tax obligations
- Employer registration: Must register as employer within 30 days of hiring anyone, even casual/seasonal
- VAT registration: If turnover exceeds threshold or voluntary registration
Filing Requirements
- Individual returns: Annual filing by July 31st
- Corporate returns: Within 6 months of financial year end
- VAT returns: Monthly or quarterly depending on turnover
- PAYE (Pay As You Earn): Monthly for employees
Tax Planning Strategies
- Utilize tax-free threshold: Structure income to maximize FJ$30,000 exemption
- Business expenses: Claim legitimate business deductions
- Investment incentives: Take advantage of sector-specific tax holidays
- Timing: Plan income and expense timing for tax efficiency
Step 5: Banking and Financial Management
Banking Options in Fiji
Major Commercial Banks
- ANZ Bank Fiji
- Pros: International banking experience, good business services
- Services: Business accounts, internet banking, international transfers
- Requirements: Standard KYC documentation, minimum balance requirements
- Westpac Bank Fiji
- Pros: Strong local presence, comprehensive business services
- Digital banking: Good online and mobile banking platforms
- Business support: SME lending and business advisory services
- Bank of Baroda Fiji
- Pros: Competitive rates, good customer service
- Specialization: Strong in trade finance and business banking
- International: Good for clients with Indian subcontinent connections
- Bred Bank Fiji
- Pros: French banking expertise, growing local presence
- Services: Personal and business banking
- Innovation: Modern banking technology
- Bank of the South Pacific (BSP)
- Pros: Integration with mobile wallets — this is a major plus in Fiji where mobile money is increasingly used; reduces friction of converting between different systems.
- Cons: Security / Fraud Risk & Customer Awareness Issues — there are cases of phishing scams, fake ads, etc., targeting BSP customers. BSP has urged customers to be careful and only use verified channels.
- Specializations / Services: Wide branch & ATM network — for Fiji, BSP is well-established, which means many physical access points. (Useful where digital infrastructure or internet access may be weaker.)
Account Opening Requirements
Personal Account:
- Valid passport or Fiji ID
- Proof of address (utility bill, lease agreement)
- Employment letter or business registration
- Initial deposit (varies by bank, typically FJ$10-500)
Business Account:
- Business registration certificate
- TIN certificate from FRCS
- Company constitution/partnership agreement
- Director/partner identification
- Initial deposit (typically FJ$500-2,000)
Payment Systems and Money Transfer
Local Payment Methods
- Electronic funds transfer: SWIFT network for international transfers
- Local transfers: Direct bank transfers between Fiji banks
- Mobile money: Limited mobile payment services available
- Check payments: Still commonly used for business transactions
International Money Transfer Options
- Traditional Bank Transfers
- Pros: Secure, reliable, direct bank-to-bank
- Cons: Higher fees (FJ$25-50), slower processing (2-5 days)
- Best for: Large amounts, formal business transactions
- Western Union
- Pros: Extensive agent network, cash pickup available
- Cons: Higher fees for bank transfers
- Best for: Clients preferring traditional money transfer services
- Wise (TransferWise)
- Pros: Competitive rates, transparent fees
- Limitations: May not support direct FJD transfers
- Best for: Clients in countries where Wise operates
- MoneyGram
- Pros: Good agent network in Pacific region
- Services: Bank deposits and cash pickup
- Best for: Regular client payments from specific regions
Cryptocurrency Considerations
- Legal status: Cryptocurrencies Are Not Legal Tender (The RBF has repeatedly made clear that digital assets like Bitcoin, Ethereum, stablecoins, NFTs etc., are not legal tender in Fiji. Only the Fijian dollar is legal tender. Using or promoting crypto as a payment method is not allowed.)
- Banking challenges: No Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) Yet (Prior to the ban, RBF had considered digital currencies more generally (including CBDCs), but had taken a cautious stance and had not decided to issue one. Instead, the focus was on modernizing Fiji’s existing National Payments System)
- Tax implications: Cryptocurrency gains may be taxable
- Proceed with caution: Regulatory landscape may change
Invoicing
As a registered business, issue professional invoices. Your invoice should include:
- Your business name, address, and TIN.
- Client's name and address.
- Invoice number and date.
- Description of services and amount due (including VAT where applicable)
- Payment terms and methods.
Step 6: Finding Clients and Building Business
International Client Acquisition
Global Freelance Platforms
- Upwork
- Fiji advantage: Lower cost of living enables competitive pricing
- Strong sectors: Virtual assistance, writing, web development
- Strategy: Highlight time zone advantages for Australian/NZ clients
- Freelancer.com
- Project-based work: Good for defined scope projects
- Competitive bidding: Requires strategic pricing approach
- Fiji edge: Cultural diversity and English proficiency
- Fiverr
- Service packages: Create specific service offerings
- Tourism focus: Leverage Fiji's tourism expertise
- Creative services: Photography, video, graphic design
- 99designs
- Creative focus: Graphic design, web design contests
- Portfolio building: Good for establishing design reputation
- Fiji inspiration: Use tropical/island themes as selling points
Specialized Industry Platforms
- Truelancer: Curated freelance marketplace of Fiji talents
- Toptal: High-end software development and consulting
- Contently: Content marketing and writing
- Behance: Creative portfolio showcase
- LinkedIn ProFinder: Professional services networking
Top Freelance Platforms in Fiji
| Platform | Focus | Fees | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Upwork | Global, all fields | 20% (sliding) | upwork.com |
| Fiverr | Micro-gigs | 20% | fiverr.com |
| Freelancer.com | Diverse projects | 10% | freelancer.com |
Local Market Development
Tourism Industry Opportunities
- Resort partnerships: Marketing, photography, content creation services
- Tour operators: Website development, booking systems, marketing
- Travel agents: Digital marketing, social media management
- Hotels: Professional photography, video content, web services
Local Business Services
- Small business support: Web development, digital marketing, bookkeeping
- Government contracts: Digital services, consulting, training
- NGO sector: Development organizations, environmental groups
- Education sector: Training, content development, digital services
Networking and Community Building
Professional Organizations
- Fiji Chamber of Commerce and Industry
- Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association
- Young Entrepreneurs Council Fiji
- Pacific Islands Private Sector Organisation (PIPSO)
Digital Communities
- Fiji Business Network (Facebook groups)
- Expat communities in Fiji
- Industry-specific groups
- Regional Pacific business networks
Networking Events
- Chamber of Commerce events
- Industry conferences and trade shows
- Startup meetups and pitch events
- Cultural and social events
Marketing Strategies Specific to Fiji
Leverage Fiji's Brand
- Paradise marketing: Use Fiji's positive global image
- Sustainability focus: Environmental and social responsibility
- Cultural authenticity: Traditional Fijian values and practices
- Quality of life: Work-life balance messaging
Time Zone Advantages
- Australia/New Zealand market: Similar time zones, cultural understanding
- Pacific region expertise: Regional knowledge and connections
- Early morning coverage: US West Coast early hours coverage
- Continuous service: 24-hour coverage with international teams
Step 7: Health Insurance and Healthcare
Healthcare System Overview
Public Healthcare
- Ministry of Health: Provides basic healthcare services
- Coverage: Free or low-cost healthcare for residents
- Limitations: Limited specialist services, equipment constraints
- Wait times: Can be lengthy for non-emergency procedures
Private Healthcare
- Private hospitals: Aspen Medical, Suva Private Hospital
- Specialist services: Limited but growing private sector
- Medical tourism: Some travel to Australia/NZ for complex procedures
- Insurance: Private health insurance recommended
Health Insurance Options
Local Insurance Providers
- Sun Insurance Fiji
- Health plans: Individual and family coverage
- Benefits: Hospital, medical, and surgical coverage
- Network: Local hospitals and clinics
- FijiCare Insurance
- Comprehensive coverage: Medical, dental, optical
- Group plans: Available for businesses
- Claims process: Local claims handling
International Health Insurance
- Cigna Global
- Worldwide coverage: Including medical evacuation
- Comprehensive benefits: Inpatient, outpatient, emergency
- Premium service: Access to international medical networks
- Allianz Care
- Regional expertise: Strong Asia-Pacific presence
- Flexible plans: Various coverage levels available
- Emergency assistance: 24/7 global assistance services
Recommendations for Freelancers
- Basic local coverage: For routine healthcare needs
- International insurance: For serious medical conditions
- Medical evacuation: Essential given limited local facilities
- Preventive care: Focus on maintaining good health
Mandatory Social Security
Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF)
As a self-employed person, you should make voluntary contributions (at least 8% of your earnings) to this compulsory superannuation scheme for your retirement.
- Mandatory contributions: Employers and employees contribute
- Self-employed rates: Voluntary contributions available
- Benefits: Retirement, housing loans, medical assistance
- Withdrawal conditions: Specific criteria for early withdrawal
Step 8: Legal Compliance and Business Protection
Contract Law and Business Agreements
Fiji Contract Law
- English common law basis: Similar to other Commonwealth countries
- Written contracts: Recommended for all business relationships
- Key elements: Offer, acceptance, consideration, legal capacity
- Dispute resolution: Courts, arbitration, or mediation options
Essential Contract Clauses
- Scope of work: Detailed description of services/deliverables
- Payment terms: Amount, schedule, currency, late payment penalties
- Intellectual property: Ownership and usage rights
- Termination conditions: Notice periods, cancellation terms
- Governing law: Fiji law or client's jurisdiction
- Force majeure: Natural disasters, political events (important in Pacific)
Intellectual Property Protection
Copyright Protection
- Automatic protection: Original works protected upon creation
- Registration: Available through Attorney General's office
- Duration: Life of author plus 50 years
- International treaties: Member of Berne Convention
Trademark Protection
- Fiji Intellectual Property Office: Handles trademark applications
- Registration process: Search, application, examination, registration
- Duration: 10 years, renewable indefinitely
- Madrid Protocol: International registration possible
Business Insurance and Risk Management
Professional Indemnity Insurance
- Coverage: Professional mistakes, omissions, negligence claims
- Important sectors: Consulting, design, technical services
- Local providers: Limited options, may need international coverage
- Annual premiums: Varies by profession and coverage amount
General Business Insurance
- Public liability: Third-party injury or property damage
- Equipment insurance: Computers, cameras, technical equipment
- Business interruption: Lost income due to unforeseen circumstances
- Cyber liability: Data breaches, cyber attacks
Natural Disaster Considerations
- Cyclone season: November to April, significant business risk
- Earthquake risk: Pacific Ring of Fire location
- Flooding: Seasonal flooding in some areas
- Business continuity planning: Essential for all businesses
Step 9: Cost Estimation and Budgeting
Initial Investment Requirements
Investor Permit Pathway
- 7-year permit investment: FJ$500,000 ($222,000 USD)
- 3-year permit investment: FJ$300,000 ($133,000 USD)
- Legal and professional fees: FJ$15,000-30,000 ($6,600-13,300 USD)
- FTIB application fees: FJ$2,000-5,000 ($890-2,220 USD)
- Immigration permit fees: FJ$1,000-2,000 ($440-890 USD)
Business Setup Costs (Non-Investment)
- Business registration: FJ$200-500 ($90-220 USD)
- Professional services: FJ$2,000-5,000 ($890-2,220 USD)
- Office setup/equipment: FJ$10,000-25,000 ($4,440-11,100 USD)
- Initial marketing: FJ$2,000-5,000 ($890-2,220 USD)
- Working capital: FJ$10,000-30,000 ($4,440-13,300 USD)
Monthly Living Expenses
Suva (Capital City - Premium)
- Rent (2BR apartment): FJ$1,200-2,500 ($530-1,110 USD)
- Utilities: FJ$200-400 ($90-180 USD)
- Internet: FJ$100-200 ($45-90 USD)
- Food/groceries: FJ$800-1,200 ($355-530 USD)
- Transportation: FJ$200-400 ($90-180 USD)
- Total Suva: FJ$2,500-4,700 ($1,110-2,090 USD)
Nadi (Tourist Area - Moderate)
- Rent (2BR apartment): FJ$800-1,800 ($355-800 USD)
- Utilities: FJ$180-350 ($80-155 USD)
- Internet: FJ$100-180 ($45-80 USD)
- Food/groceries: FJ$700-1,000 ($310-445 USD)
- Transportation: FJ$150-300 ($65-135 USD)
- Total Nadi: FJ$1,930-3,630 ($855-1,615 USD)
Outer Islands/Rural (Budget)
- Rent (house/bure): FJ$400-1,000 ($180-445 USD)
- Utilities: FJ$100-250 ($45-110 USD)
- Internet: FJ$80-150 ($35-65 USD)
- Food/groceries: FJ$500-800 ($220-355 USD)
- Transportation: FJ$100-200 ($45-90 USD)
- Total Rural: FJ$1,180-2,400 ($525-1,065 USD)
Business Operating Expenses (Monthly)
Basic Operating Costs
- Office/co-working space: FJ$300-800 ($135-355 USD)
- Internet/phone: FJ$150-250 ($65-110 USD)
- Software subscriptions: FJ$200-500 ($90-220 USD)
- Insurance: FJ$300-600 ($135-265 USD)
- Professional services: FJ$500-1,000 ($220-445 USD)
- Marketing/networking: FJ$200-500 ($90-220 USD)
- Total operating: FJ$1,650-3,650 ($735-1,615 USD)
Income Expectations by Sector
Tourism Industry Services
- Travel photography: FJ$200-800 per day ($90-355 USD)
- Content creation: FJ$50-150 per article ($20-65 USD)
- Tour guide services: FJ$150-400 per day ($65-180 USD)
- Resort consulting: FJ$100-300 per hour ($45-135 USD)
- Monthly potential: FJ$4,000-15,000 ($1,780-6,650 USD)
Technology Services
- Web development: FJ$30-80 per hour ($15-35 USD)
- Digital marketing: FJ$40-100 per hour ($20-45 USD)
- Software consulting: FJ$80-200 per hour ($35-90 USD)
- E-commerce development: FJ$2,000-10,000 per project ($890-4,440 USD)
- Monthly potential: FJ$6,000-25,000 ($2,665-11,100 USD)
Creative Services
- Graphic design: FJ$25-75 per hour ($11-33 USD)
- Video production: FJ$500-2,000 per day ($220-890 USD)
- Photography sessions: FJ$300-1,200 per session ($135-535 USD)
- Content writing: FJ$20-60 per 1000 words ($9-27 USD)
- Monthly potential: FJ$3,000-12,000 ($1,335-5,330 USD)
Consulting Services
- Business consulting: FJ$100-250 per hour ($45-110 USD)
- Environmental consulting: FJ$150-400 per hour ($65-180 USD)
- Training services: FJ$200-600 per day ($90-265 USD)
- Strategic planning: FJ$2,000-8,000 per project ($890-3,550 USD)
- Monthly potential: FJ$8,000-30,000 ($3,550-13,300 USD)
Step 10: Lifestyle and Cultural Integration
Living in Fiji as a Freelancer
Advantages
- Natural beauty: Pristine environment, tropical climate
- Friendly culture: Warm, welcoming Fijian hospitality (Bula spirit)
- English language: Widely spoken, easy communication
- Time zone: Good for Australia/NZ/Pacific clients
- Low crime rates: Generally safe living environment
- Outdoor lifestyle: Year-round outdoor activities
Challenges
- Internet connectivity: Can be unreliable, especially during storms
- Cost of imports: Many goods are expensive due to import costs
- Limited services: Fewer professional services than developed countries
- Natural disasters: Cyclones, earthquakes, flooding risks
- Medical facilities: Limited specialist healthcare
- Professional isolation: Smaller business community
Cultural Considerations
Fijian Business Culture
- Relationship-based: Personal relationships important in business
- Respectful communication: Polite, indirect communication style
- Community focus: Collective decision-making common
- Time flexibility: "Fiji time" - more relaxed approach to punctuality
- Hierarchy respect: Age and position command respect
Social Integration Tips
- Learn basic Fijian phrases: "Bula" (hello), "Vinaka" (thank you)
- Participate in community events: Kava ceremonies, church activities
- Respect traditional customs: Dress codes, cultural protocols
- Support local businesses: Build relationships with local suppliers
- Environmental consciousness: Respect for nature highly valued
Networking and Professional Development
Local Professional Development
- University of the South Pacific: Continuing education programs
- Fiji Institute of Technology: Technical and vocational training
- Chamber of Commerce: Business development workshops
- Industry associations: Sector-specific training and networking
Regional Opportunities
- Pacific Island forums: Regional business conferences
- Australia/New Zealand connections: Professional exchanges
- International development: Work with NGOs and government agencies
- Online learning: Supplement with international online courses
Final Success Checklist
Legal and Immigration Setup
- [ ] Investment funding secured (if pursuing investor permit)
- [ ] FTIB investment approval obtained
- [ ] Foreign Investment Certificate received
- [ ] Immigration permit application submitted
- [ ] Medical examinations completed
- [ ] Police clearances from all relevant countries
- [ ] Entry visa obtained and entry completed
Business Registration and Compliance
- [ ] Business name registered (if applicable)
- [ ] TIN obtained from FRCS
- [ ] VAT registration completed (if required)
- [ ] Business bank account opened
- [ ] Insurance policies purchased
- [ ] Legal contracts and templates prepared
Operational Setup
- [ ] Office space/home office established
- [ ] Internet and telecommunications set up
- [ ] Computer equipment and software installed
- [ ] Website and online presence created
- [ ] Marketing materials developed
- [ ] Client acquisition strategy implemented
Financial Management
- [ ] Banking relationships established
- [ ] International payment methods set up
- [ ] Accounting system implemented
- [ ] Tax compliance procedures established
- [ ] Emergency fund established
- [ ] Investment funds properly deployed (if investor permit)
Personal Settlement
- [ ] Accommodation secured
- [ ] Health insurance arranged
- [ ] Local contacts and networks established
- [ ] Cultural orientation completed
- [ ] Emergency procedures and contacts established
- [ ] Professional development plan created
Useful Official Resources
Government Departments
- Fiji Companies Registry: www.fiji.gov.fj (Search for "Companies Registry")
- Ministry of Immigration: https://www.immigration.gov.fj/
- Fiji Trade and Investment Bureau (FTIB): https://www.investfiji.org.fj/
- Ministry of Industry, Trade and Tourism: https://www.mitt.gov.fj/
- Fiji Revenue and Customs Service: https://frcs.org.fj/
- Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF): www.fnpf.com.fj
Business Support
- BusinessNOW Fiji: https://www.businessnow.gov.fj/
- Registrar of Companies: https://roc.digital.gov.fj/
- Fiji Chamber of Commerce: https://www.fijichamber.com.fj/
- Reserve Bank of Fiji: https://www.rbf.gov.fj/
- Business Assistance Fiji (BAF): https://businessassistancefiji.com/
Professional Services
- Fiji Law Society: https://www.fijilawsociety.org/
- Fiji Institute of Accountants: https://www.fia.org.fj/
- Fiji Association of Software Developers: (Local contacts)
- Young Entrepreneurs Council Fiji: https://yecfiji.com/
Other Resources
- BSP Business Accounts — example bank account details and minimums. (Fiji)
- Westpac Fiji — business account requirements. (westpac.com.fj)
Common Challenges and Solutions
Challenge 1: Internet Connectivity Issues
Solutions:
- Multiple internet providers (Digicel, Vodafone, Connect)
- Backup connection methods (mobile hotspot, satellite)
- UPS systems for power outages
- Schedule critical work during peak connectivity hours
- Consider co-working spaces with reliable connections
Challenge 2: Geographic Isolation
Solutions:
- Strong online presence and digital communication
- Regular travel to Australia/NZ for business meetings
- Video conferencing for client relationships
- Partner with local businesses for market access
- Join regional business networks
Challenge 3: Limited Local Market
Solutions:
- Focus on international client base
- Develop tourism industry specialization
- Partner with regional businesses
- Create unique Fiji-based value propositions
- Leverage time zone advantages
Challenge 4: Natural Disaster Risks
Solutions:
- Comprehensive insurance coverage
- Emergency business continuity plans
- Multiple backup systems for data and equipment
- Flexible working arrangements during cyclone season
- Build strong local support networks
- Have a disaster recovery plan (backup documents, cloud storage, insurance).
Challenge 5: High Cost of Living/Imports
Solutions:
- Local sourcing when possible
- Bulk purchasing during sales
- Regional buying trips to Australia/NZ
- Focus on high-value services to offset costs
- Embrace local lifestyle to reduce expenses
Useful Tips for Success in Fiji
Business Development
- Relationship Investment: Fijian business culture heavily emphasizes personal relationships - invest time in building trust
- Tourism Industry Focus: Leverage Fiji's primary industry for consistent opportunities
- Regional Positioning: Position yourself as the Pacific region expert for international clients
- Seasonal Planning: Plan business activities around cyclone season (November-April)
- Cultural Sensitivity: Show respect for Fijian traditions and incorporate local values
Operational Excellence
- Multiple Connectivity: Have backup internet solutions - connectivity issues are common
- Local Partnerships: Partner with established local businesses for credibility and market access
- Flexible Scheduling: Adapt to "Fiji time" while maintaining international professional standards
- Disaster Preparedness: Always have contingency plans for natural disasters
- Equipment Redundancy: Keep backup equipment - repairs and replacements take longer
Financial Management
- Currency Hedging: Consider currency fluctuation impacts on international contracts
- Local Banking: Build strong relationships with local banks for better services
- Tax Optimization: Use the FJ$30,000 tax-free threshold strategically
- Investment Compliance: Strictly adhere to investment permit requirements if applicable
- Emergency Reserves: Maintain larger cash reserves due to isolation and disaster risks
Personal Success
- Community Integration: Actively participate in local community activities
- Health Maintenance: Prioritize preventive healthcare given limited specialist services
- Work-Life Balance: Take advantage of Fiji's lifestyle to maintain good balance
- Continuous Learning: Stay updated with international trends through online education
- Network Building: Build both local and international professional networks
