United States Visa RequirementsFor Micronesia passport holders
Citizens of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) have the right to freely enter, live, work, and study in the United States under the Compact of Free Association. No visa, ESTA, or advance authorization is needed. Present a valid FSM passport at any US port of entry.
Great news! Micronesia passport holders can enter United States without a visa for tourism or business purposes.
No visa, no ESTA, and no advance authorization are required for FSM citizens. Present a valid FSM passport at any US port of entry. CBP processes FSM citizens under the COFA framework. There is no prior application or fee required.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
Yes
Current Travel Situation
Micronesia to United States: What You Need to Know
The Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) consists of four states, Chuuk, Pohnpei, Kosrae, and Yap, spread across the western Pacific Ocean. FSM has been in a Compact of Free Association with the United States since 1986, renewed in 2023 for another 20-year period.
Under the Compact, FSM citizens have the right to freely enter, live, work, and study in the United States and its territories without a visa. This is distinct from a tourist visa or visa waiver; it is a treaty-granted right with no maximum stay period analogous to a tourist visa.
FSM citizens have historically migrated to the US in significant numbers, particularly to Hawaii, Guam, and the CNMI. There are also FSM communities in Portland (Oregon), Honolulu, and other US cities. FSM citizens in the US have access to some, but not all, federal benefit programs.
The COFA does not automatically confer US permanent residence or citizenship. The 2023 Compact renewal provides continued economic assistance to FSM in exchange for the security and defense arrangement.
How to Get There
FSM has airports in Pohnpei (PNI), Chuuk (TKK), Kosrae (KSA), and Yap (YAP). All international connections to the US go through Guam (GUM). United Airlines operates the main route linking FSM islands to Guam and onward to Honolulu and mainland US cities. Travel time from Pohnpei to Los Angeles is approximately 18 to 22 hours with connections through Guam and Honolulu.
Money & Banking
The United States dollar (USD) is the official currency of the Federated States of Micronesia, making the US monetary transition seamless. US bank cards and ATMs work normally throughout the United States. Daily costs vary by city: approximately $100 to $150 in smaller US cities, $200 to $300 in Honolulu, New York, or San Francisco. Tipping 18 to 20 percent in restaurants is standard US practice.
Practical Tips
FSM communities in the US are well established in Hawaii, Guam, and Portland, Oregon. Mainland US healthcare and education access are key reasons many FSM citizens relocate. COFA citizens are eligible for some US federal programs; eligibility varies by program and may require proof of COFA status. Emergency: 911.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Federated States of Micronesia citizens need a US visa?
No. The Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) is a Compact of Free Association nation. FSM citizens have the treaty right to freely enter, live, work, and study in the United States and its territories without a visa or ESTA. Present a valid FSM passport at any US port of entry.
What states are in the Federated States of Micronesia?
The FSM consists of four states: Chuuk (also spelled Truk, known for its famous diving lagoon), Pohnpei (home to the capital Palikir and the ancient ruins of Nan Madol), Kosrae (known for its coral reefs), and Yap (known for its stone money and traditional culture). They are spread across the western Pacific Ocean, north of the equator.
Can FSM citizens work in the United States?
Yes. Under the Compact of Free Association, FSM citizens can work freely in the United States without needing a work visa, work permit, or employer sponsorship. This is a significant benefit that distinguishes COFA citizens from other foreign nationals.
What is the COFA and why does it give FSM citizens free US access?
The Compact of Free Association is a treaty between the US and three Pacific nations (FSM, Marshall Islands, and Palau) that grants freedom of movement to citizens of those nations in exchange for security and defense cooperation. The original Compact was signed in 1986; it was renewed for FSM in 2023 for 20 more years.
Where do most FSM citizens live in the United States?
FSM citizens in the US are concentrated in Hawaii, Guam, the CNMI, and Portland, Oregon. Hawaii has the largest FSM community due to proximity and established migration networks. Portland, Oregon has also become a significant destination. Many FSM citizens migrate to the US for educational, economic, and healthcare opportunities.
Does the 2023 COFA renewal change anything for FSM citizens in the US?
The 2023 renewal extended the Compact for 20 years and included provisions for improved economic assistance to FSM and expanded access to certain US federal programs. Changes in benefit eligibility, particularly Medicaid, were a key part of the renewed agreement. FSM citizens should consult USCIS or community organizations for current details on program eligibility.