Palikir Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Palikir, the capital of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), welcomes international travelers with relatively straightforward entry requirements. Located on the island of Pohnpei, Palikir serves as the administrative center of this Pacific island nation. Most visitors arrive through Pohnpei International Airport, where immigration and customs procedures are conducted. The FSM maintains a visa-friendly policy for many nationalities, particularly those from countries with which it has strong diplomatic ties. The immigration process in Palikir is generally efficient and welcoming, though facilities are modest compared to larger international airports. Travelers should be prepared with all required documentation, including a valid passport, proof of onward travel, and evidence of sufficient funds for their stay. The FSM uses the US dollar as its official currency, which simplifies financial requirements for American visitors. Understanding entry requirements before departure will ensure a smooth arrival experience in this remote but beautiful Pacific destination. Visitors should note that while Palikir is the capital, it is a small administrative center with limited infrastructure. Most tourist facilities are located in nearby Kolonia town. International flights are infrequent, typically connecting through Guam or Hawaii, so careful planning is essential. Travel to the FSM requires flexibility and patience, as weather conditions and logistical challenges can affect schedules.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

The Federated States of Micronesia offers visa-free entry to citizens of many countries for tourism and business purposes. Visitors must have a passport valid for at least 120 days beyond their intended stay.

Visa-Free Entry

Up to 30 days initially, extendable to 90 days

Citizens of these countries can enter the FSM without a visa for tourism or business purposes

Includes

Passport must be valid for at least 120 days beyond intended stay. Proof of onward/return ticket and sufficient funds required. Initial entry is typically granted for 30 days but can be extended at FSM Immigration Office.

Visa on Arrival

Up to 30 days

Some nationalities not on the visa-free list may obtain entry permits on arrival

Includes

Most other nationalities not requiring advance visa

How to Apply: Entry permit issued at port of entry upon presentation of valid passport, onward ticket, and proof of sufficient funds
Cost: Generally no fee for initial 30-day entry permit

Immigration officers have discretion to grant or deny entry. It is recommended to contact FSM embassy or consulate in advance if uncertain about visa requirements.

Visa Required

Varies based on visa type granted

Citizens of certain countries must obtain a visa before travel

How to Apply: Apply at nearest FSM embassy or consulate. In countries without FSM representation, applications may be processed through US embassies or by mail to FSM Department of Foreign Affairs.

Processing time varies. Apply at least 4-6 weeks before intended travel. Countries requiring advance visas are limited but include some nations without diplomatic relations with FSM.

Arrival Process

Upon arrival at Pohnpei International Airport, travelers will proceed through immigration and customs. The process is generally straightforward, though may take longer during peak flight arrivals as there are limited immigration officers on duty.

Disembarkation

Exit the aircraft and proceed to the terminal building. Follow signs to Immigration. There is typically only one international arrival area.

Immigration Control

Present your passport, completed arrival/departure card (usually distributed on the flight), and proof of onward travel. Immigration officer will review documents, may ask questions about your visit, and stamp your passport with entry permit.

Baggage Claim

Collect your checked luggage from the baggage claim area. Flights are infrequent, so your baggage should be clearly identifiable.

Customs Declaration

Complete customs declaration form and proceed through customs inspection. Officers may inspect luggage, particularly for prohibited agricultural products and restricted items.

Exit to Arrivals Area

After clearing customs, exit to the public arrivals area where hotels, tour operators, and taxis await.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Must be valid for at least 120 days (4 months) beyond your intended departure date from FSM. Should have at least two blank pages for stamps.

Arrival/Departure Card

Immigration form distributed on incoming flights or available at immigration. Must be completed before presenting to immigration officer.

Proof of Onward/Return Travel

Confirmed airline ticket showing departure from FSM within authorized stay period. Electronic tickets are acceptable; have confirmation number ready.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Evidence you can support yourself during your stay (credit cards, cash, bank statements). Requirement is not always strictly enforced but may be requested.

Accommodation Details

Hotel reservation or address where you will be staying in FSM. May be requested by immigration officer.

Customs Declaration Form

Form declaring items being brought into FSM, including currency over $5,000 USD and any restricted items.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Have all documents organized and readily accessible before reaching immigration counter to expedite processing.

Dress neatly and be respectful when dealing with immigration and customs officers. First impressions matter in small communities.

Declare all items honestly on customs forms. Agricultural products are particularly scrutinized to protect local ecosystems.

Carry some US dollars in cash as ATMs may be limited and credit card acceptance is not universal outside hotels.

Keep your stamped arrival/departure card safe as you'll need to present it when departing FSM.

If you need to extend your stay beyond 30 days, visit the FSM Immigration Office in Palikir well before your initial entry permit expires.

Be patient during the immigration process, especially if arriving on a full flight. There may be only 1-2 officers processing all passengers.

Customs & Duty-Free

FSM customs regulations are designed to protect the fragile island ecosystem and maintain security. The country is particularly strict about agricultural products and biosecurity. All arriving passengers must complete a customs declaration form.

Alcohol

2 liters of alcoholic beverages per adult

Must be 21 years or older. Alcohol may be subject to local restrictions on certain islands or during specific periods.

Tobacco

200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250 grams of tobacco per adult

Must be 18 years or older. Tobacco products for personal use only.

Currency

Amounts over $5,000 USD (or equivalent) must be declared

Both incoming and outgoing currency. No limit on amount that can be brought in or taken out, but declaration is mandatory above threshold.

Gifts/Goods

Personal effects and goods for personal use are generally duty-free

Commercial quantities or items clearly intended for resale may be subject to duty. Use reasonable judgment for personal items.

Prohibited Items

Illegal drugs and narcotics - strictly prohibited with severe penalties including imprisonment
Firearms and ammunition - require special import permits from FSM government
Explosives and fireworks - prohibited without authorization
Fresh fruits and vegetables - prohibited to prevent introduction of pests and diseases
Live plants and plant materials - prohibited without agricultural permit
Live animals - prohibited without veterinary and agricultural clearance
Soil and sand - prohibited to prevent biosecurity risks
Meat and meat products - generally prohibited without prior authorization
Dairy products - restricted without proper documentation
Pornographic materials - prohibited
Counterfeit goods - prohibited

Restricted Items

Prescription medications - bring only what you need with original packaging and prescription. Carry doctor's letter for controlled substances.
Professional equipment - cameras, diving gear, drones may require declaration. Commercial filming equipment needs permits.
Pets - require import permit, health certificate, and rabies vaccination records. Apply well in advance through Division of Agriculture.
Seeds and propagative plant material - require phytosanitary certificate and import permit from FSM Department of Resources and Development
Fish and seafood products - may be restricted; declare all items
Cultural artifacts and traditional items - export of FSM cultural property is restricted

Health Requirements

The FSM does not currently require specific vaccinations for most travelers, though health precautions are strongly recommended for this tropical Pacific destination.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever vaccination certificate - required only if arriving from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic country within 6 days of arrival

Recommended Vaccinations

Routine vaccinations - ensure up to date on MMR, DPT, polio, and influenza
Hepatitis A - recommended for all travelers
Hepatitis B - recommended for travelers who may have intimate contact with locals or require medical treatment
Typhoid - recommended for travelers eating outside major hotels and restaurants
Japanese Encephalitis - may be recommended for long-term travelers or those visiting rural areas
Dengue Fever prevention - no vaccine widely available; focus on mosquito bite prevention

Health Insurance

Comprehensive travel health insurance with medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended. Medical facilities in FSM are basic, and serious medical conditions require evacuation to Guam, Hawaii, or the Philippines, which is extremely expensive without insurance. Ensure your policy covers Pacific island nations and medical evacuation by air ambulance.

Current Health Requirements: Check current COVID-19 and other health requirements before travel as these can change. Visit the FSM Department of Health and Social Affairs website or contact your nearest FSM embassy for the latest health entry requirements. Some travelers may need to show proof of certain vaccinations or test results depending on current public health situations.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

FSM Embassy/Consulate

Contact your nearest FSM embassy or consulate for visa information and travel advice

FSM has embassies in Washington DC (USA), Tokyo (Japan), Beijing (China), and Suva (Fiji). Check your government's foreign affairs website for contact details.

FSM Department of Foreign Affairs

Official source for visa and immigration information

Located in Palikir. Can assist with visa extensions and immigration matters. Email and phone contact available through FSM government website.

Emergency Services

Police, Fire, and Medical emergencies: 911

Emergency services are limited. Response times may vary. Serious medical emergencies require evacuation.

Pohnpei State Police

Non-emergency police contact: +691 320-2221

For reporting crimes or requesting police assistance

Pohnpei State Hospital

Main hospital in Kolonia: +691 320-2213

Basic medical services available. Serious conditions require evacuation to Guam or Hawaii.

Your Country's Embassy

Contact your own country's embassy in the region (likely in Manila, Tokyo, or Canberra)

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children must have their own passport (any age). If traveling with only one parent or without parents, carry notarized letter of consent from non-accompanying parent(s) or legal guardian authorizing travel. Birth certificates may be requested. Minors are subject to same visa requirements as adults. Some airlines require unaccompanied minor services for children under 12 traveling alone.

Traveling with Pets

Pets require import permit from FSM Department of Resources and Development, Division of Agriculture, obtained well in advance (minimum 30 days). Required documents include: current rabies vaccination certificate (at least 30 days old but not more than 12 months), veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of travel, proof of treatment for internal and external parasites. Dogs and cats must be quarantined for minimum 120 days at owner's expense unless arriving from rabies-free country. Import of birds is heavily restricted. Contact FSM Agriculture Division before making travel plans with pets.

Extended Stays

Tourist entry permits are initially granted for 30 days and can be extended up to 90 days total. To extend, visit FSM Immigration Office in Palikir before your initial permit expires. Bring passport, onward ticket, proof of sufficient funds, and reason for extension. Extensions are generally granted for legitimate tourism or business purposes. For stays beyond 90 days, you must apply for appropriate long-term visa (work permit, student visa, etc.) through FSM Department of Foreign Affairs. Overstaying your permit can result in fines, detention, and future entry bans.

Business Travelers

Business visitors can enter under tourist entry permit for short business activities (meetings, conferences, consultations). For work requiring employment, must obtain work permit from FSM Department of Justice before arrival. Work permits require sponsorship from FSM employer or organization. Bring business invitation letter, company documentation, and proof of purpose. Business equipment may require temporary import documentation.

Students and Researchers

Students attending FSM educational institutions require student visa obtained through sponsoring institution. Researchers conducting studies need research permits from appropriate FSM government agencies. Archaeological or cultural research requires special permits from FSM Historic Preservation Office. Marine research requires permits from FSM Department of Resources and Development. Apply for all permits well in advance (minimum 60-90 days).

Cruise Ship Passengers

Cruise passengers on organized shore excursions typically receive temporary shore passes rather than full entry stamps. Passport still required. If leaving ship independently or staying in FSM after cruise, inform immigration and obtain proper entry permit. Shore pass does not allow overnight stays off the ship.