New Caledonia
The practical basics before you go: plugs, emergency numbers, money, tipping and the time.
In brief
About 295 thousand people live in New Caledonia, on 18,576 km². The capital is Nouméa.
- Capital
- Nouméa
- Population
- 295,333
- Area
- 18,576 km²
- Official languages
- French
No land borders
Facts change, so check the important things before you travel.
Population: World Bank, 2025 (CC BY 4.0). Capital, area and languages: Wikidata. Facts fetched October 30, 2026.
Before you go
Which plugs are used in New Caledonia?
Sockets take plug type C/E, at 220 V and 50 Hz.
What is the emergency number in New Caledonia?
Call 17 for the police, 15 for an ambulance and 18 for the fire brigade.
Do you tip in New Caledonia?
Not expected.
Which side of the road do they drive on in New Caledonia?
Traffic drives on the right.
What currency is used in New Caledonia?
Prices are in CFP Franc (XPF).
What language do they speak in New Caledonia?
Official languages: French.
How do I call a number in New Caledonia from abroad?
To call a number there from abroad, start with +687.
Entry rules and travel advice
Visa rules depend on your passport and can change at short notice. Your own government keeps them up to date, so check its advice before you book.
Links checked October 30, 2026.
