Marshall Islands tourist visa: visa on arrival and V-1

Visa on arrival or visa waiver applies to citizens of countries with diplomatic relations with the RMI; the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade publishes the list. Nationals not on the list must obtain a V-1 visa from the Division of Immigration while still outside the RMI. The V-1 covers tourism, family visits, short stays, research and volunteer work. The division's seasonal notice adds that visitors who want to stay beyond the initial 30-day period must apply for an extension at the Majuro office before their visa expires.

At arrival, officers ask for a passport valid at least six months beyond the date of entry, physical proof of a confirmed return or onward ticket and evidence of sufficient funds. A V-1 application adds the application form, two passport photos, an itinerary, a letter stating the purpose and duration, a hotel booking or host's contact details, a police clearance record, a health certificate, proof of funds and proof of fee payment. Researchers add proof of qualifications, and volunteers a signed Memorandum of Agreement.

The V-1 fee is 100 US dollars and is not refunded. It is waived for visitors who qualify for a visa on arrival.

Check the visa-on-arrival list, gather the documents and submit them in person, by mail or by email as scans. Processing begins only when every document has arrived. The file is reviewed by a processing officer, then the deputy director, then the director or a delegate. On arrival, present the visa and documents to the immigration officer at the port of entry.

Extensions are requested from the Division of Immigration in Majuro before the permitted stay ends. Staying with an expired visa breaches the Immigration Act and can result in fines, detention or removal.

A refused applicant receives the reasons in writing. The division's visa pages state that the decision can be appealed under section 170 of the Immigration Act 2006.