Check your passport-specific visa exception
Most RMI citizens qualify for visa-free travel under the Compact, but eligibility depends on how citizenship was acquired, family relationship and travel purpose. Adoption-related travel and citizenship or an RMI passport obtained through an investment or passport-sale program do not qualify; some naturalized citizens need specific residence and certification. If you do not meet a Compact category, you need a U.S. visa. Confirm your category before travel.
Check whether your passport meets the exception
Most RMI citizens qualify for visa-free travel under the Compact, but eligibility depends on how citizenship was acquired, family relationship and travel purpose. Adoption-related travel and citizenship or an RMI passport obtained through an investment or passport-sale program do not qualify; some naturalized citizens need specific residence and certification. If you do not meet a Compact category, you need a U.S. visa. Confirm your category before travel.
If your passport does not qualify, confirm the visa route before travel
Check the destination’s current official visa instructions for your place of residence.
Check the stay and entry conditions
A visa or visa waiver does not guarantee admission. Follow the dates and conditions set by the destination’s immigration authority.
What to prepare for your trip
Check each item as you prepare it. Labels show which documents are required, conditional, or recommended.
Your circumstances may require additional documents. Ticks track preparation, not eligibility or admission.
Details that can change your plans
Compact eligibility depends on your citizenship history
The Federated States of Micronesia, Republic of the Marshall Islands and Palau have separate Compact travel rights, rather than ordinary tourist-visa waivers. Eligibility and exceptions differ by country; check the country-specific guidance below. Alien spouses and children do not automatically share a citizen's Compact privilege.
Official guidanceCheck that you qualify for Marshall Islands Compact travel
Most RMI citizens qualify for visa-free travel under the Compact, but eligibility depends on how citizenship was acquired, family relationship and travel purpose. Adoption-related travel and citizenship or an RMI passport obtained through an investment or passport-sale program do not qualify; some naturalized citizens need specific residence and certification. If you do not meet a Compact category, you need a U.S. visa. Confirm your category before travel.
Official guidanceUnited States at a glance
- Capital
- Washington, D.C.
- Currency
- USD
- Calling code
- +1
Questions for this route
Do travelers with an ordinary passport from Marshall Islands need a visa for the United States?
Check that you qualify for Marshall Islands Compact travel. Most RMI citizens qualify for visa-free travel under the Compact, but eligibility depends on how citizenship was acquired, family relationship and travel purpose. Adoption-related travel and citizenship or an RMI passport obtained through an investment or passport-sale program do not qualify; some naturalized citizens need specific residence and certification. If you do not meet a Compact category, you need a U.S. visa. Confirm your category before travel.
How long can I stay in United States?
Eligible RMI citizens may live and work in the United States as nonimmigrants without a visa. USCIS says the current stay has no fixed end, but eligibility depends on citizenship history and other Compact conditions. Adoption-related travel and citizenship or passports obtained through investment or passport-sale programs are excluded; those who do not qualify need a U.S. visa. Confirm your category and carry a valid RMI passport before travel.
What if I’m going to work, study or stay longer?
This guide is for a short tourist visit on an ordinary passport. It does not establish eligibility for employment, study or residence. Use the destination’s official guidance for your actual purpose.
Does my country of residence change the answer?
Passport nationality and legal residence are different. This page starts with your passport. Residence can change where you apply and which application channel is available; an existing visa or residence permit may also create an exception. Check the official eligibility guidance for your circumstances.
Official websites
Use these government websites to confirm requirements and complete any application.
Check U.S. visitor visa guidance
Visitor visa categories, application steps and links to the Visa Waiver Program.
Check residence rights
Eligible RMI citizens may live and work in the United States as nonimmigrants without a visa. USCIS says the current stay has no fixed end, but eligibility depends on citizenship history and other Compact conditions. Adoption-related travel and citizenship or passports obtained through investment or passport-sale programs are excluded; those who do not qualify need a U.S. visa. Confirm your category and carry a valid RMI passport before travel.
About this guide
This guide covers short tourist visits on an ordinary passport. Your nationality, residence, travel document and purpose can affect the entry conditions. Check the linked official guidance before travel; the border authority decides admission and your permitted stay.
Suggest a correction