When you plan a trip to Palau, understanding its entry rules is crucial. In this guide, you’ll learn who can enter without a visa, how visa-on-arrival works, the special privileges under the Compacts of Free Association, the latest COVID-19 entry updates, and how Palau’s reciprocal policies affect you or your Palauan friends visiting the U.S.
Visa-Free and Visa-on-Arrival Policies
Palau keeps entry simple for most travelers, but details vary by nationality.
Most nationals of the following enjoy visa-free entry for tourism up to 90 days{:target=”_blank” rel=”noopener noreferrer”}:
– Citizens of the USA, Australia, EU member states and 90 others
– Passport valid at least six months beyond arrival date
– Proof of onward or return ticket
– Sufficient funds for your stay
If your country isn’t on the visa-free list, you can obtain a visa on arrival (VOA){:target=”_blank” rel=”noopener noreferrer”} valid for 30 days at Palau’s airport or seaport. Extensions up to 90 days total are possible by applying at the Bureau of Immigration and paying the applicable fees.
Extending Your Stay
To extend a VOA beyond the initial 30 days:
1. Visit the Bureau of Immigration office in Koror
2. Show your passport and VOA stamp
3. Pay the weekly extension fee
4. Demonstrate ongoing financial means
Free-Association Agreements: Special Privileges
Palau’s Compacts of Free Association{:target=”_blank” rel=”noopener noreferrer”} grant unique rights:
- Citizens of the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and the United States may enter, live, work, and study in Palau indefinitely without a visa.
- All arrivals must complete a QR Code Arrival Declaration Form{:target=”_blank” rel=”noopener noreferrer”} within 24 hours before flight.
- Holders of diplomatic passports or Palau work permits bypass the onward/return-ticket requirement.
“Our goal is to make travel to Palau as seamless as possible, especially for neighbors under the Free Association agreements.”
— Palau Bureau of Immigration Official
Reciprocity and Palauan Citizens Abroad
Palau’s visa policy largely mirrors what other nations require of Palauan citizens:
- If Country X grants Palauan passport holders visa-free access, Palau reciprocates for X’s citizens as well, as detailed in Visa policy of Palau{:target=”_blank” rel=”noopener noreferrer”}.
- Palauan citizens enjoy special U.S. entry privileges under the Compact of Free Association: indefinite stays, work and study rights without a U.S. visa.
Latest Entry Updates: COVID-19 and Beyond
Palau lifted most pandemic-era restrictions as of April 25, 2023:
- No COVID-19 vaccination or testing required for entry, according to the CDC’s travel notice for Palau{:target=”_blank” rel=”noopener noreferrer”}
- QR Code Arrival Form remains mandatory
Staying informed matters. Entry rules can shift, so check the Bureau of Immigration site before you book.
Charting Your Course to Palau
Your next steps:
1. Confirm whether you qualify for visa-free entry or VOA.
2. Ensure your passport is valid for six months.
3. Book onward/return travel or verify your exemption.
4. Complete the QR Code Arrival Form within 24 hours of departure.
5. Keep proof of funds on hand and monitor Palau’s official immigration updates.
With this knowledge, you’re ready to embrace Palau’s turquoise waters, vibrant culture, and welcoming hospitality—no surprises at immigration. Safe travels!