At a glance
U.S. citizens can use the Compact of Free Association, an agreement between the two countries, to seek entry, live, and take lawful employment in the Marshall Islands. Entry approval and local rules still apply.
- Citizenship requirement
- U.S. citizenship; a green card alone is not enough
- Entry records
- A valid passport and the entry evidence required by Marshall Islands authorities
- Family
- Each person needs their own valid basis to enter and stay
Summary
The Marshall Islands' Compact arrangements give U.S. citizens a distinct basis to seek admission and undertake lawful residence and employment. A U.S. green card does not qualify, and the authorities still apply local entry requirements.
Confirm the procedures for the proposed work or business before travel, including any professional license. Tax and business rules continue to apply, while accompanying relatives need their own valid admission basis. These arrangements do not grant Marshallese citizenship or property rights.
Eligibility
You must be a U.S. citizen. A U.S. green card or other permanent-resident status alone does not qualify.
Prepare the required passport and entry evidence. Ask the destination’s immigration authority which steps apply to your actual work or residence plans before traveling.
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Check citizenship and entry requirements Confirm that the Compact provisions apply to your circumstances.
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Confirm the steps for your plans Ask about registration and any work, business, or professional requirements.
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Enter under the Compact and follow local rules Keep each family member’s immigration position and required approvals in order.
The Compact does not replace local laws or automatically cover relatives with a different nationality.
What This Route Allows
The Compact provides a way to reside and pursue lawful work, beyond an ordinary tourist stay. You must meet the admission requirements and local laws, including any professional or business licensing rules.
What This Route Is Not
This does not grant local citizenship, property rights, or a permanent-residence card. It does not remove tax obligations or replace a business license.
Family members do not automatically receive the same status. Each person needs their own valid reason for admission and stay; non-U.S. relatives cannot rely only on your citizenship.
Next Steps
- Confirm the citizenship requirement and any individual entry restrictions.
- Ask about entry, registration, and the rules for your intended job or business.
- Seek entry under the Compact and follow the local conditions throughout your stay.
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