Planning a trip to the Marshall Islands? By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly if you need a visa, how to apply, what documents to prepare, and extra tips on health, currency, and transit requirements to make your journey smooth.
Who Enters Without a Visa?
Citizens of:
– United States (including territories and possessions)
– Federated States of Micronesia
– Palau
– Republic of the Marshall Islands
can stay up to 30 days visa-free, as detailed by the U.S. Department of State’s entry requirements for the Marshall Islands. Extensions up to 90 days total are possible by applying with the Office of the Chief Secretary in Majuro.
How to Extend Your Stay
- Download and complete the extension form from the Office of the Chief Secretary.
- Submit it with your passport copy and proof of funds.
- Pay the extension fee (usually prorated).
When You Do Need a Visa
If you’re from any other country:
– Obtain a Tourist Visa before arrival.
– Fill out the IATA Travel Centre’s visa requirements for the Marshall Islands.
– Mail it along with:
– Your valid passport
– One passport photo
– Proof of sufficient funds
– Confirmed onward/return ticket
– Visa fee: US $25 (single entry) or US $50 (multiple entry)
Processing can take several weeks, so apply at least 30 days before departure.
Passport Validity & Entry Documents
Before you pack:
– Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date, in line with IATA’s travel document requirements.
– Carry proof of onward travel.
– Show evidence of adequate funds for your stay.
Health & Vaccination Requirements
- No routine vaccines are mandated unless you arrive from a yellow fever risk country. In that case, present a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate, according to the WHO’s yellow fever guidelines.
- Recommended immunizations: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, routine childhood shots—refer to the CDC’s recommendations for travelers to the Marshall Islands.
- COVID-19 restrictions may apply. Check the latest updates on the Marshall Islands’ official site before you go.
Navigating Transit Visa Rules
Even if the Marshall Islands itself doesn’t require you to have a visa, your layover country might:
– Transiting through the United States often requires an ESTA, available via U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s ESTA portal.
– Many European airports need a Schengen transit visa if you leave the international zone.
Always confirm transit requirements with each airline and embassy involved.
Money Matters at Customs
- The official currency is the US dollar.
- You must declare currency or monetary instruments totaling over US $10,000 on entry or exit, as required by U.S. Customs and Border Protection currency reporting rules.
- ATMs are scarce outside Majuro and Ebeye. Bring cash or consider a travel-friendly debit card.
Consular Assistance & Embassy Coverage
The Marshall Islands maintains few embassies abroad. If you need urgent visa support or in-country help:
– Primary consular office: Office of the Chief Secretary in Majuro.
– Nearest Marshall Islands embassy: Suva, Fiji for Pacific travelers (Foreign relations of the Marshall Islands on Wikipedia).
– Allow extra time for document processing and inquiries.
Final Boarding Call
By now, you’ve learned who needs a visa, how to get one, and all the extras—from health checks to transit visas. This preparation ensures you won’t face unwelcome surprises at the airport or upon arrival. Enjoy your tropical journey to the Marshall Islands!