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World Travel Guide > Guides > Oceania > Pacific Islands Of Micronesia > Federated States Of Micronesia

Federated States Of Micronesia travel guide

About Federated States Of Micronesia

Scattered across the Pacific Ocean, the Federated States of Micronesia is the epitome of paradise – with its powdery shores, crystalline waters and colourful coral reefs – but its lack of connectivity and relative obscurity means few travellers actually make it here.

Comprised of some 607 islands, this archipelago is not the easiest place to get to, but it certainly rewards those who do make the journey. In islands like Chuuk, visitors will find vast lagoons of monumental beauty, filled with shipwrecks, kaleidoscopic corals and sandy beaches. The islands are a dream for divers, and many argue that the area’s diving and snorkelling ranks among the best in the world.

It’s not all about natural beauty, though. The Micronesians themselves combine a profusion of languages, customs and folklore, which are captivating to witness. The archipelago is defiantly archaic too, which is wholly refreshing: on the island of Yap, islanders still trade using an ancient stone currency. Some Micronesians can also be glimpsed wearing traditional garments and throughout the nation you are likely to stumble across snatches of unique island music and witness zesty, time-honoured dances.

Though a sovereign nation now, the archipelago has been dragged from pillar to post by various colonial powers. The Portuguese, Spanish, Germans and Japanese have all laid claim to the territory, followed by the USA, which took over the administration the nation in 1947. However, in 1986, the Federated States signed a Compact of Free Association with the USA, allowing for independence with US defence support.

The islands suffer from remoteness and lack of industry and infrastructure. There is development potential, but as yet Micronesia remains dependent on US aid. Tourism is one industry that could potentially boost the island's fiscal situation. However, even if tourism does take off, with 607 islands to speak of, finding some deserted shores to relax on shouldn't be too hard.

Key facts

Area:

702 sq km (271 sq miles).

Population:

104,966 (UN estimate 2016).

Population density:

149.9 per sq km.

Capital:

Palikir (Pohnpei).

Government:

Federal Republic in free association with the USA.

Head of state:

President Wesley W. Simina since 2023.

Head of government:

President DWesley W. Simina since 2023.

Travel Advice

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide and any specific travel advice that applies to you:

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in the Federated States of Micronesia set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Federated States of Micronesia Immigration Office. You can also check the Federated States of Micronesia’s entry requirements on its tourism website

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering the Federated States of Micronesia.

Passport validity requirements

To enter the Federated States of Micronesia, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 120 days after the date you arrive.

You will need to clear immigration even for a domestic flight, so you will always need your passport when you fly in the FSM.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

You must have a visa to enter the Federated States of Micronesia. If you are visiting for tourism, you will get a visa on arrival.

You may extend your visa without charge by 30 days at a time, up to a maximum of 90 days. To extend your visa, contact the Federated States of Micronesia Immigration Office.

If you are visiting for any other purpose, such as business, you must apply for an entry permit before you travel. See entry requirements for the Federated States of Micronesia.

Checks at border control

At the Federated States of Micronesia’s border control, you may need to show a return or onward ticket.

Airport tax

You must pay a departure tax of 20 US dollars when you leave the Federated States of Micronesia.

Vaccine requirements

For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Micronesia guide.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of the Federated States of Micronesia. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times. 

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in the Federated States of Micronesia

Although there is no recent history of terrorism in the Federated States of Micronesia, attacks cannot be ruled out.

Crime

Crime levels are low. The risk of crime is higher at night, particularly if alcohol is involved. The risk is also higher in the state of Chuuk.

Sexual assault

There have been reported incidents of sexual assault. You should stay aware of your surroundings, especially when alone. The risks are higher in isolated locations after dark or early in the morning.

Laws and cultural differences

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

There are heavy penalties for drug offences. If convicted, you risk a fine and a long prison sentence.

LGBT+ travellers

Same-sex relationships are not widely accepted in the Federated States of Micronesia. Same-sex couples showing affection in public may attract unwanted and negative attention.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism

Water safety

There are dangerous currents and waves in parts of the islands. Wear appropriate safety equipment and always get local advice if you’re taking part in adventure sports.

See water safety on holiday from the Royal Life Saving Society.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

The islands of the Micronesia region are vulnerable to natural disasters, including tropical cyclones, floods and severe droughts. Monitor local news and check World Meteorological Organisation weather reports for Micronesia. Follow any instructions issued by the local authorities.

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.

Mobile phones

Your UK mobile phone will not work in the Federated States of Micronesia because there is no international roaming.

Money

The currency in the Federated States of Micronesia is the US dollar. Most hotels accept credit cards. ATM facilities are limited.

Before you travel check that:

  • your destination can provide the healthcare you may need  
  • you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation.

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Call 911 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

See what health risks you’ll face in the Federated States of Micronesia, including:

  • dengue
  • Zika virus

Medication

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.

The NHS has information on whether you can take your medicine abroad.

Healthcare facilities in the Federated States of Micronesia

Medical facilities in the Federated States of Micronesia are limited but adequate for uncomplicated treatment.

If you have more serious or complicated problems, you may need medical evacuation to Guam or Australia. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation, including medical evacuation by air ambulance.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in the Federated States of Micronesia

Telephone: 911 (ambulance, fire, police)

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans, including:

  • where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
  • how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

Contacting FCDO

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. You can also sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.

You can also contact FCDO online.

Help abroad in an emergency

If you are in the Federated States of Micronesia and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the British High Commission in Suva, Fiji, who provide consular assistance for the Federated States of Micronesia.

FCDO in London

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)

Find out about call charges

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