Vanuatu Vatu
VUV
The money
The official currency of Vanuatu is the vatu and uses the currency code VUV. Interestingly unlike many other currencies, the vatu has no subdivisions, with 1 vatu being the smallest denomination of Vanuatu currency. The vatu was introduced one year into Vanuatu’s independence, in 1981. The vatu replaced the formerly used New Hebrides franc and ended the official circulation of the Australian dollar in Vanuatu. Many communities in Vanuatu continue to conduct business in a ceremonial fashion, paying each other using traditional items of value such as pigs, curved boars’ tusks or long dyed mats.
- Currency
- Vanuatu Vatu
- Code
- VUV
- Symbol
- VT
- One Australian dollar
- 78.8646 VUV
Bank notes
- 100 VT
- 200VT
- 500 VT
- 1000 VT
- 2000 VT
- 5000 VT
- 10000VT
Coins
- 1VT
- 2VT
- 5VT
- 10VT
- 20VT
- 50VT
- 100VT
We supply notes only. Coins are listed so you know what the change in your pocket is worth.
What things cost in Vanuatu
The left column is what the guide records locally. The right column is that same figure through today’s rate — the arithmetic we would do for you at the counter, done here instead.
| Everyday price | VT | Australian dollars |
|---|---|---|
| Three-course meal for two, mid-range restaurant | 6,225 | A$78.93 |
| One-way ticket on local transport | 150 | A$1.90 |
| Bottle of water | 89.5 | A$1.13 |
Converted at 1 AUD = 78.8646 VUV, our online rate as at 7 Sep 2026, 14:28. Local prices are a guide to what you will pay, not a quote.
How much to take
Set the trip and the calculator prices it in VUV, using the same rate as the figures above.