Palikir Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Palikir is the capital of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), a Pacific island nation in free association with the United States. Entry into Palikir, via Pohnpei International Airport (PNI), is governed by FSM's immigration laws. The entry process is generally straightforward for tourists from visa-exempt countries, but all travelers must present a valid passport, proof of onward/return travel, and sufficient funds for their stay. Immigration officials will issue an entry permit stamp upon arrival, specifying the allowed duration of stay, typically 30 days. Before traveling, visitors should ensure their passport has at least 120 days of validity remaining beyond their intended departure date from FSM. It's important to note that while entry requirements are lenient for many nationalities, the immigration officer has the final authority to grant or deny entry based on the purpose of visit and documentation provided. Travelers should have printed copies of their itinerary, accommodation bookings, and any necessary visas for onward destinations. FSM comprises four states: Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei, and Kosrae. Palikir is located in Pohnpei. While there is no internal border control between states, visitors arriving internationally must clear immigration at their first port of entry, which for Palikir is Pohnpei International Airport.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

The Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) has a relatively open visa policy, offering visa-free entry to citizens of many countries, those with which it has historical ties or agreements. The allowed stay is typically 30 days, but can be extended up to 60 days by application. All visitors must hold a passport valid for at least 120 days beyond their departure date.

Visa-Free Entry

30 days (extendable up to 60 days)

Citizens of listed countries do not require a visa for tourist visits.

Includes

United States Israel United Kingdom Canada Australia New Zealand Japan South Korea Philippines All European Union member states Singapore Malaysia

The 30-day entry permit is issued upon arrival. Travelers must have proof of onward/return travel and sufficient funds. The list is not exhaustive; citizens of many other countries also enjoy visa-free access. Always confirm your specific nationality's status.

Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA/eVisa)

N/A

FSM does not currently offer an Electronic Travel Authorization or eVisa system.

How to Apply: N/A
Cost: N/A

All eligible travelers receive their entry permit stamp upon arrival. Those requiring a visa must obtain one in advance from an FSM diplomatic mission.

Visa Required

Determined by the issuing authority

Citizens of countries not listed for visa-free entry must obtain a visa prior to travel.

How to Apply: Apply at an FSM Embassy or Consulate, or through the FSM Department of Justice, Immigration & Labor. Applications typically require a completed form, passport photos, flight itinerary, proof of accommodation, and financial means. Processing times vary.

Travelers transiting through the U.S. (e.g., Guam, Hawaii) to reach FSM may need a U.S. transit visa in addition to an FSM visa. This is a critical step for many travelers.

Arrival Process

Upon arrival at Pohnpei International Airport (PNI), travelers will proceed through immigration, baggage claim, and customs. The process is usually efficient, but flights can arrive simultaneously, causing short queues.

Health Declaration

You may be asked to complete a health declaration form, if there are active public health concerns.

Immigration Inspection

Present your passport, completed arrival card, and proof of onward travel (return/onward ticket) to the immigration officer. The officer will ask about the purpose and duration of your visit before stamping your passport with an entry permit.

Baggage Claim

Proceed to the baggage claim area to collect your checked luggage.

Customs Inspection

Present your customs declaration form. Your baggage may be scanned or inspected. Declare any items as required.

Documents to Have Ready

Passport

Must be valid for at least 120 days beyond your planned departure date from FSM.

Proof of Onward/Return Travel

A confirmed airline, cruise, or boat ticket showing departure from FSM within the permitted stay period.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Evidence you can support yourself financially during your stay (e.g., bank statements, credit cards).

Accommodation Details

Address of where you will be staying (hotel booking, host's contact information).

Completed Arrival/Departure Card

Provided on the plane or at the airport; must be filled out before reaching the immigration counter.

Completed Customs Declaration Form

Declares items you are bringing into the country.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Have all your documents (passport, tickets, accommodation proof) easily accessible and organized before you approach the immigration counter.

Fill out your arrival card and customs form completely and legibly on the plane to save time.

Answer the immigration officer's questions politely, clearly, and honestly. The purpose is tourism unless you have a specific visa for another reason.

Carry some US dollars in cash. While cards are accepted in some places, cash is king, for taxis and smaller establishments immediately upon arrival.

Check the validity of your passport carefully. The 120-day rule is strictly enforced.

Customs & Duty-Free

FSM customs regulations are designed to protect the local environment, agriculture, and community. The import of certain items is strictly prohibited or restricted. The currency is the US Dollar (USD).

Alcohol

2 liters of alcoholic beverages

Traveler must be 21 years or older.

Tobacco

200 cigarettes OR 50 cigars OR 250 grams of tobacco

Traveler must be 18 years or older.

Currency

USD $10,000 or equivalent

Amounts exceeding USD $10,000 (or foreign equivalent) must be declared upon arrival and departure.

Gifts/Goods

Personal effects and gifts valued up to USD $400

Items must be for personal use and not for resale. Commercial goods are subject to duty.

Prohibited Items

Illegal drugs and narcotics
Pornographic materials
Counterfeit currency and goods
Firearms, ammunition, and explosives without prior authorization
Protected wildlife and products (e.g., coral, turtle shell, certain shells) under CITES
Plants, seeds, soil, and fresh fruits/vegetables without phytosanitary certificates

Restricted Items

Prescription medications - must be in original containers, accompanied by a doctor's prescription or letter.
Pets - require an import permit and valid health/vaccination certificates issued within 10 days of travel. Quarantine may apply.
Radio communication equipment - requires prior approval from the FSM Telecommunications Authority.

Health Requirements

There are minimal mandatory health requirements for entry into FSM, but several health considerations are important for travelers' safety.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever vaccination certificate if arriving from a country with risk of Yellow Fever transmission.

Recommended Vaccinations

Routine vaccinations (MMR, DTP, Polio, Varicella)
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis B
Typhoid
Influenza
COVID-19

Health Insurance

Travel health insurance is highly recommended but not mandatory for entry. Medical facilities in Pohnpei are limited, and serious conditions often require medical evacuation (medevac) to Guam, Hawaii, or the Philippines, which is extremely expensive. Ensure your insurance covers medevac.

Current Health Requirements: As of October 2023, there are no COVID-19 testing, vaccination, or quarantine requirements for entry into FSM. However, this is subject to change. Check the FSM Department of Health & Social Affairs website or your airline for the latest health advisories before travel.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Embassy/Consulate

The FSM has embassies in Washington D.C., USA; Tokyo, Japan; and Suva, Fiji. The U.S. Embassy in Kolonia, Pohnpei provides consular services for U.S. citizens.

Citizens of other countries should contact their nearest embassy or high commission, often located in Fiji, Australia, Japan, or the USA, for assistance.

Immigration Authority

FSM Department of Justice, Immigration & Labor

For official visa information, extension applications, and immigration inquiries. Website: http://www.fsmimmigration.gov.fm/

Emergency

911

Police, ambulance, fire. Service availability and response times may vary, on outer islands.

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Minors (under 18) traveling without both parents/legal guardians should carry a notarized letter of consent from the absent parent(s). The letter should authorize travel, provide contact details, and specify trip dates. This is not an absolute FSM law but is strongly recommended to avoid delays, as immigration may inquire about child safety and custody.

Traveling with Pets

Strict regulations apply. You must obtain an import permit from the FSM Department of Resources & Development prior to travel. Pets require a valid rabies vaccination certificate and a veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of travel. Dogs and cats may be subject to quarantine upon arrival. Certain breeds may be prohibited.

Extended Stays

The standard 30-day entry permit can be extended once for an additional 30 days (total 60 days) by applying at the Immigration Division in Palikir before the initial permit expires. For stays longer than 60 days, or for purposes like work, study, or business, you must apply for the appropriate long-term visa (e.g., business, residency) before traveling or through immigration authorities in FSM.

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