Planning a trip to Micronesia? I’ll walk you through everything—from visa exemptions to departure taxes—so you can island-hop without surprises. By the end, you’ll know exactly what documents to pack, which flights to book and the little-known rules few guides mention.
Who Needs a Tourist Visa—and Who Doesn’t
Most visitors can stay up to 30 days without a prior visa.
– Citizens of countries on Micronesia’s visa-exemption list enter freely for 30 days (Visa policy of Micronesia on Wikipedia).
– If you’re eligible, you can also obtain a visa on arrival—it’s free and stamped into your passport at the airport.
– Anyone not covered by these rules must secure a visa before departure.
Eligible Countries at a Glance
- Australia, Canada, EU nations
- Japan, South Korea, New Zealand
- Others listed here: U.S. Department of State country information for Micronesia
Special Privileges for U.S. Citizens
Under the Compact of Free Association, U.S. passport holders can live, work or study in Micronesia indefinitely—no visa, no extra registration. That makes FSM one of the few Pacific nations offering truly permanent access to Americans.
Must-Have Documents Before You Fly
Before you board, make sure you’ve gathered:
1. A passport valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date, with two blank pages (United Airlines international travel document requirements).
2. Proof of onward or return travel plus evidence of sufficient funds (FSM Embassy in Japan entry visa requirements).
3. A completed FSM Immigration Arrival & Departure Record and Customs Form—this is handed out by your airline before landing (TravelFish guide to FSM immigration and customs procedures).
Departure Tax: Cash Is King
Every time you leave an island, you’ll pay a departure tax of US $17.50 in cash. Credit cards and ATMs aren’t available at Pohnpei (PNI), Chuuk (TKK), Kosrae (KSA) or Yap (YAP) airports, so stash enough bills before you touch down (World Travel Guide: FSM departure tax and currency).
Flights, Connections and Transit Visas
United Airlines is the only U.S. carrier serving Micronesia. Routes run from Honolulu or Guam to each main island—PNI, TKK, KSA and YAP (United Airlines new routes announcement).
Keep in mind:
– If your itinerary routes through a country that demands a transit visa—like the U.S. or Japan—you must hold the appropriate permit even if you never leave the airport (U.S. CBP guidance for transit passengers).
Currency and Health Essentials
- Currency: The U.S. dollar is Micronesia’s official money, so spending is straightforward for Americans (CIA World Factbook: FSM overview).
- Vaccinations: No immunizations are required for entry, though you should review any health advisories before you depart (CDC travel health information for FSM).
Limits, Extensions and Diplomatic Ties
- Although most travelers get 30 days, anyone planning to stay longer must apply for a visa in advance.
- Nationals of countries without formal diplomatic relations with Micronesia face stricter entry rules—contact the nearest FSM embassy for details (FSM Embassy in the U.S. visa information).
Ready, Set, Island Time
With your passport stamped, departure tax paid and documents in order, you’re all set to explore Micronesia’s emerald lagoons, ancient ruins and lush jungles. Keep these rules in mind, and your trip will flow as smoothly as the turquoise waters you’ll soon swim in. Safe travels!