IMMIGRATION

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The Division of Immigration is principally responsible for the administration and enforcement of all immigration laws, controlling the movement of people at the international points of entry through management of passports, visas and travel identity documentation in accordance with the provisions of Title 13 Citizenship and Immigration; the Immigration Regulations (2006); and Executive Order 450.

Travelling to Palau :

The Division of Immigration is strongly committed to the effective management of the movement of people to protect Palau’s interests. All arriving and departing passengers must have a valid passport or travel document. Arriving passengers including foreign nationals and Palauan citizens are required to provide their passport or travel documentation and other required information to the Division of Immigration. If you are a foreign national you must hold a valid visa or work permit when entering Palau, except those nationals from the FSM, RMI and USA. Passengers must submit the Palau Entry Form at most 72 hours before departure at https://www.palautravel.pw/. This will generate a QR code, which must be presented on a mobile device or printed copy during check-in and upon arrival.

Do Palauan citizens need a passport to enter and leave Palau?

  • Palauan citizens should use their Palauan passport to enter and leave Palau. If you have a passport from another country, you can use that after you leave Palau. A passport is the best way to show that you are a Palauan citizen.

Traveling as a dual citizen

  • Since 2008, Palau has allowed dual citizenship.

Palau’s Pristine Paradise Environmental Fee (PPEF)

As of Jan. 1, 2018, every visitor coming to Palau will be assessed a $100 environmental fee. Every international airline is required to include the fee in the price of the ticket into Palau sold on or after January 1, 2018. Individuals traveling with Palauan passports, spouses of Palauan passport holders or Palauan citizens, crew members on official duty, Diplomats / members of diplomatic mission in the course of their official duties recognized by the Ministry of State, transit passengers and those individuals determined by the Minister of Finance are exempt from the $100 PPEF, and are eligible for a cash refund upon arrival by presenting a travel itinerary indicating that the $100 fee was paid and a passport.

Emergency Passport / Travel

Depending on your immigration status and, in case of emergency, the Division of Immigration will grant or allow a foreign national or Palauan citizen to travel on an Emergency passport provided that the applicant provide the necessary documentation issued by their country or consulate office with supporting documents, itinerary or airline ticket and any other document required by the Director.

Visa Waiver between Palau and Other Countries

FSM/RMI/USA Citizens visiting Palau do not need a visa. Palau signed a mutual visa-waiver agreement with the European Union on 7 December 2015. This agreement allows all citizens of states that are contracting parties to the Schengen Agreement to stay without a visa for a maximum period of 90 days in any 180-day period. Palau signed a mutual visa-waiver agreement with the Russia on 28 September 2018 which entered into force on 27 December 2018. This agreement allows citizens of Russia to stay without a visa for a period of 30 days. Effective, December 01, 2018, Palauan and Taiwanese nationals seeking visa-free entry into Taiwan and Palau respectively must hold an ordinary, official or diplomatic passport valid for at least 6 months; not intend to work, study or reside in one another’s country; and hold a return flight ticket and valid visa for an onward destination. For any update, on visa-free agreements please check with the Ministry of State.

Applications can be lodged:

  • At the Division of Immigration Office, located downtown Koror on 2nd floor of the MOJ Building
  • Through the e-lodgment email address: immigration@bcbp.pw
  • NOT AVAILABLE ON ARRIVAL
  • Office hours: 8am – 5pm (Monday – Friday)

You are responsible for ensuring that you have the appropriate visa for the Republic of Palau prior to commencing your travel. There may be adverse consequences if you attempt to enter Republic of Palau without a visa.

To apply for a FG/IOR, Government, Student, Temporary, Missionary, Resident or Dependent Visa, follow these steps:

  • Complete and sign the Visa Application form;
  • Provide the necessary documents;
  • Submit all required documents to the Division of Immigration; and
  • Pay the required visa application fee.

Persons applying for an FG/IOR, Government, Student, Temporary, Missionary, Resident or Dependent Visa shall submit to the Director, in addition to any other documents required by law and these regulations, the following:

  • a police clearance from the Palau Bureau of Public Safety and the place of residence of the foreign national;
  • a sworn statement from the foreign national who the Foreign national has never been convicted of a felony;
  • proof of financial responsibility;
  • a medical examination report stating whether the foreign national has any communicable diseases;
  • a statement of the purpose of the presence of the foreign national in the Republic;
  • two recent photographs of the foreign national; and
  • any other information that the applicant may wish to provide to show that such a Visa will be in the best interest of the Republic.

Upon receipt of your application, it generally takes about 5-10 working days for your visa to be processed.

Tourist Visa

A tourist visa for Palau may be issued upon arrival for those short-term travelers with a genuine intention of visiting the country for tourism, leisure, or social visits and not to perform work. This may include visiting friends or family, attending meetings or conferences, and other short-term visits.

Visa application process

The application process for a Palau visa-on-arrival is simple and quick. Once you arrive, you need to provide Immigration with your valid passport and the rest of the documents listed above in this article. The processing is completed within minutes and you will get your passport back with the visa stamped in it. The application process is different for nationals of Bangladesh and Myanmar, as they need to apply for the visa before they reach Palau, from their country of residence. Nationals of these two countries should contact the Palau diplomatic mission in their country, other representative authorities or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Validity

The tourist visa for Palau is valid for a period of 30 days and may be extended for two additional 30-day periods.

Visa Extension

You must apply at least seven days before the expiration date of your current visa at the Division of Immigration.

Fees

The fee is $50 USD for renewal.

Criteria

To be eligible for a tourist visa to Palau, visitors must meet the following criteria:

  • Passport Validity: Your passport should be valid for at least six months at the time of entry into Palau.
  • Onward Ticket: You must possess a return ticket unless exempt;
  • Purpose of Visit: You should intend to come to Palau for tourism, leisure, or social visits.
  • Financial Means: You should have sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay in Palau.
  • Health Requirements: Effective April 25th, 2023, Palau will no longer require COVID-19 vaccination to enter the country.
  • QR Code Arrival: Passengers must submit the Palau Entry Form at most 72 hours before departure at https://www.palautravel.pw/. This will generate a QR code, which must be presented on a mobile device or printed copy during check-in and upon arrival.
  • Other requirements: Includes other evidence, travel documents or circumstances acceptable to the Director.

Exemptions

The following categories of people are exempt from the return or onward ticket requirement:

  • Diplomats accredited to Palau;
  • persons holding an exemption letter approved by the President, ROP and/or by the Director;
  • persons holding a valid visa or work permit issued by the Bureau of Labor & Human Resource; and
  • citizens of USA, FSM and RMI do not require a visa to travel to and enter Palau, but they are required to complete the QR code arrival declaration form.

Change of Status

The tourist visa strictly prohibits visitors from engaging in commercial, employment, or business activities while in the country. However, if you wish to change your status or work in Palau, you must have a labor permit issued by the Bureau of Labor and Human Resources allowing you to work in Palau. If you fail to meet any of the requirements for the Visa Class, the Director may revoke your visa any time in accordance with 13 PNC § 1006.

Business Visa

A business visa for Palau may be issued upon arrival to those traveling on business-related activities such as attending business meetings or conferences, negotiating contracts, or exploring business opportunities. It does not permit the visa holder to undertake employment in Palau.

Validity

The business visa for Palau is valid for a period of 30 days and may be extended for two additional 30-day periods.

Visa Extension

You must apply at least seven days before the expiration date of your current visa at the Division of Immigration.

Fees

The fee is $50 USD for renewal.

Criteria

To be eligible for a business visa to Palau, visitors must meet the following criteria: 

  • Passport Validity: Your passport should be valid for at least six months at the time of entry into Palau.
  • Onward Ticket: You must possess a return ticket unless exempt;
  • Purpose of Visit: You should intend to come to Palau for legitimate business activities.
  • Financial Means: You should have sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay in Palau.
  • Health Requirements: Effective April 25th, 2023, Palau will no longer require COVID-19 vaccination to enter the country.
  • QR Code Arrival: Every visitor to Palau must fill and submit a completed QR Code Arrival Form upon arrival that is also available online and may be accessed and completed by travelers before arrival into the Republic of Palau.
  • Other requirements: Includes other evidence, travel documents or circumstances acceptable to the Director.

Exemptions

The following categories of people are exempt from the return or onward ticket requirement:

  • Diplomats accredited to Palau;
  • persons holding an exemption letter approved by the President, ROP or signed by the Director;
  • persons holding a valid visa or work permit issued by the Bureau of Labor & Human Resource; and
  • citizens of USA, FSM and RMI do not require a visa to travel to and enter Palau, but they are required to complete the QR Code arrival declaration form.

Change of Status

The business visa strictly prohibits visitors from engaging in commercial, employment, or business activities while in the country. However, if you wish to change your status or work in Palau, you must have a labor permit issued by the Bureau of Labor and Human Resources allowing you to work in Palau. If you fail to meet any of the requirements for the Visa Class, the Director may revoke your visa any time in accordance with 13 PNC § 1006.

Digital Resident Tourist Visa

The Palau Digital Residency Office is responsible for overseeing and managing all activities and services for the Palau Digital Residents and this includes the Digital Residency Identification Card.

Validity

Palau Digital Residents are eligible for up to two consecutive ninety-day (90 day) extension during a calendar year for international travel to the Republic of Palau after the duration of their initial tourist visa expired.

Fees

A fee of $50 extension fee for each month shall be imposed for the issuance of a Dependent Visa.

Visa Renewal

You must apply at least seven days before the expiration date of your current visa at the Division of Immigration.

Criteria

Digital residents must comply with all other immigration regulations, including regulations regarding the procedural requirements for visa renewal. Failure to do so shall render the Digital Resident ineligible for visa renewal.

Digital Residents shall prove their eligibility by presenting their Digital Resident National ID Card to the appropriate immigration officer when applying for the extension. The reviewing immigration officer shall verify the validity of the card through the Digital Residency Office.

The extension is not available to Digital Residents who enter Palau illegally.

Transit Passenger

No transit visa is required for Palau. A transit passenger are those travelers who do not plan to leave the airport terminal or transit area during a layover within Palau and expect to stay for a maximum of 24 hours. A traveler may exit the airport during their transit, but you need to meet all the conditions below.

Validity

There are two types of transit passengers: 

  • A genuine transit passenger to Palau are those travelling for a short duration, remaining within the airport terminal or transit area for up to 24 hours;

Fees

There is no fee.

Criteria

To be eligible, you need to:

  • have a Valid Passport for at least six months at the time of entry into Palau;
  • a confirmed airline ticket for a flight that leaves within 24 hours;
  • you may be allowed to leave the airport during your stopover, but you must depart the Republic of Palau within 24 hours of arrival; and
  • if your flight is cancelled or delayed and your layover is more than 24 hours, you’ll no longer qualify as a transit passenger.

Change of Status

A transit visa is specifically for travellers who do not plan to exit the airport terminal or transit area during their layover in Palau. It does not allow for a change of status or the extension of stay for purposes outside of transit. If a traveller intends to leave the airport or stay longer in Palau, they must apply or change their status for the appropriate visa category, such as a tourist visa, that permits such activities and meet all the criteria or eligibility requirements of such visa or work permit.

Temporary Visa

A Temporary Visa may be issued by the Director when in the best interests of the Republic or for humanitarian reasons, and shall contain such conditions as the Director deems appropriate.

Validity

A Temporary Visa shall be valid for no more than 30 days. Foreign nationals holding a temporary Visa may not work in the Republic, unless expressly exempted in writing by the Director. Foreign nationals holding any other Visa may work in the Republic only in accordance with the purpose for which the Visa was granted.

Fees

No fee shall be assessed for issuance of a Temporary Visa.

Visa Renewal

You must apply at least seven days before the expiration date of your current visa at the Division of Immigration.

Criteria

  • A Carrier entering in distress shall be issued a Temporary Visa, provided that the Carrier and crew/passengers meet applicable health and quarantine requirements.
  • The Entry shall be allowed only to the minimum extent necessary to protect life and property and may be extended only if:
    • the distress has not been refalimedied; and
    • the persons responsible for the Carrier are making a good faith effort to remedy the situation.
  • Disembarkation of foreign nationals from a Carrier arriving without a permit may be allowed for humanitarian reasons or practical considerations by the issuance of a Temporary Visa.
  • Otherwise, disembarkation shall not be allowed for any person arriving on the Carrier until such time as an Entry Permit for the Carrier is issued.
  • In the event that a foreign national has overstayed his/her Visa because the Carrier is not fit for travel, the foreign national shall depart the Republic immediately by other means.
  • In the event the foreign national is the Captain of the Carrier, the foreign national shall, prior to departure, appoint an Agent acceptable to the Director. Such Agent shall be responsible for continuing the repairs, maintenance and security of the Carrier, and for ensuring that the Carrier does not become a hazard to navigation or a public charge. If no Agent is provided prior to departure of the Captain of the Carrier, ownership of the Carrier may be forfeited to the Republic. Such forfeit shall not relieve the Captain or owner of any damages or liabilities incurred.

Crew members: Foreign National on a Commercial Aircraft or Vessel

A Visa shall not be required for officers and crew of Commercial or maritime Carriers for stays in the Republic of forty-eight hours or less.

Crewmembers may be referred to as aircrew, crew, personnel, team, cabin crew, flight attendants, flight crew and flight personnel.

Validity

A Crewmember is a foreign national employed or working on a commercial vessel or aircraft who are travelling for business or pleasure. The crewmembers does not have the right to work in the Republic of Palau but does allow the crewmember to engage in certain activities including crewmember-related tasks such as serving customers or passengers, loading and unloading cargo or supplies, providing maintenance services, and participating in organized entertainment activities.

This includes vessels used for commercial, cargo, transport of paying passengers, vessels owned and operated by foreign governments and public vessels. This includes private or commercial aircrafts that is not scheduled.

This does not include small crafts, private yachts or superyachts, fishing vessels, research vessels that are not owned or operated by a foreign government. To work on a small craft, yacht or vessel that is registered or resides in Palau, you should apply for appropriate visa or work permit.

If the crewmembers are here longer than 48 hours, Immigration will allow the crewmember to temporarily enter the Republic of Palau under a tourist visa or business visa. Otherwise, they will require a work permit issued by labor. This includes crewmembers arriving on small marine craft, private yachts.

The crew of fishing vessels and other small crafts working in the Republic of Palau waters must have a work visa.

Fees

The fee is $50 USD for renewal.

Visa Extension

The tourist or business visa for Palau is valid for a period of 30 days and may be extended for two additional 30-day periods. You must apply at least seven days before the expiration date of your current visa at the Division of Immigration.

Criteria

If the crewmembers are here longer than 48 hours, to be eligible for a tourist or business visa to Palau, visitors must meet the following criteria:

  • Passport Validity: Your passport should be valid for at least six months at the time of entry into Palau.
  • Onward Ticket: You must possess a return ticket unless exempt;
  • Purpose of Visit: You should intend to come to Palau for tourism, leisure, or social visits.
  • Financial Means: You should have sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay in Palau.
  • Health Requirements: Effective April 25th, 2023, Palau will no longer require COVID-19 vaccination to enter the country.
  • QR Code Arrival: Every visitor to Palau must fill and submit a completed QR Code Arrival Form upon arrival that is also available online and may be accessed and completed by travelers before arrival into the Republic of Palau.
  • Other requirements: Includes other evidence, travel documents or circumstances acceptable to the Director.

Dependent Visa

A Dependent Visa may be issued to a dependent of a person lawfully present in the Republic. A “Dependent” refers to a child or spouse who depends upon a person for financial assistance and/or care. To be eligible for a dependent visa, you will typically need to satisfy a strict relationship requirement. In most cases, this means that you must be either the spouse or child under the age of 21 of the principal applicant or primary visa-holder or a foreign national who hold a valid working permit. Palau visa law does not recognize common-law relationships, where you will not be eligible for derivative visa status as a partner or fiancée.

Validity

A Dependent Visa may be issued to a dependent of a person lawfully present in the Republic. An application for a Dependent Visa shall require a sworn statement attesting to dependency. The Visa may be issued for up to five years, but in the case of a Dependent of a non-Palauan, shall expire no later than the date of expiration of the Visa held by the person of whom the person is a dependent. The Dependant Visa is issued to the spouse and children under 21 of a foreign national who hold a valid work permit or other type of visa in the Republic. Immigration will only issue a Dependent Visa in accordance with the labor, foreign investment, tax and any other laws and regulations of the Republic.

What happens if a child is born out of wedlock?

A child born in wedlock to a Palauan citizen or foreign national residing, working or living in Palau must provide evidence under the laws of Palau establishing them as the natural father or natural mother and the child legitimated. The natural father or mother and child must have had a bona-fide parent-child relationship before the child reached the age of 21.

What if you are a parent (if unmarried), or at least one parent (single) and you want to claim your child as a dependent.

  • You must meet certain suitability and eligibility requirements. Provide evidence of legal custody of other requirements as required by the Director.

What if your child is adopted?

You must meet certain suitability and eligibility requirements.

  • The adoptive parent (s) must have evidence of a full and final adoption and satisfy the legal custody requirements before Immigration may consider the child as a dependent.
  • The prospective adoptive parents must demonstrate that they were able to legally adopt the child and capable of providing proper care to a child.
  • Immigration will ask for relevant information about you and, if you are legally married including your spouse. You will need to provide supporting documentation, such as proof of citizenship and proof of marital status (if applicable).

Fees

  • No fee for government employee;
  • No fee for dependent of a government employee;

Visa Renewal

You must apply at least seven days before the expiration date of your current visa at the Division of Immigration.

Criteria

To be eligible for a Dependent visa to Palau, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Legally married;
  • If you are the natural father or mother, a single parent or unmarried and the child has not been legitimized, you must provide legal evidence to support your application;
  • Children birth certificate;
  • Earn a minimum fixed annual salary of $15,000 USD. This may include the combined salary for both spouses;
  • Foreign nationals who are legally married to a Palauan national may obtain a dependant visa; and
  • Other requirements may include other evidence, travel documents or circumstances acceptable to the Director.

Exemptions

The following categories of people are exempt from obtaining a dependent visa:

  • dependent of a Palauan;
  • diplomats and diplomatic missions accredited to Palau;
  • persons holding an exemption letter approved by the President, ROP and/or by the Director; and
  • citizens of USA, FSM and RMI;

FSM/RMI/USA Visa

Any person who is a citizen of the United States, the Federated States of Micronesia, or the Republic of the Marshall Islands shall be allowed to visit, work or reside in the Republic of Palau only in accordance with the laws of the Republic of Palau.

Validity

RPPL 11-26 now exempts FSM/RMI/USA effective Nov. 02, 2022 to visit, work or reside in the Republic of Palau for the duration of their visit.

You do not need a visa.

Fees

Exempt from visa fee

Visa Renewal

Exempt from requirements

Criteria

To be eligible for a FSM/RMI/USA visa to Palau, all visitors arriving into the Republic of Palau must meet the following criteria:

  • Passport Validity: Your passport should be valid for at least six months at the time of entry into Palau.
  • Onward Ticket: Not required
  • Purpose of Visit: Must state the purpose of your visit to Immigration Authorities.
  • Health Requirements: Effective April 25th, 2023, Palau will no longer require COVID-19 vaccination to enter the country.
  • QR Code Arrival: Every visitor to Palau must fill and submit a completed QR Code Arrival Form upon arrival that is also available online and may be accessed and completed by travelers before arrival into the Republic of Palau.
  • Other requirements: Includes other evidence, travel documents or circumstances acceptable to the Director.

USA Military Personnel

U.S. military personnel must present an official government issued photo ID-card, orders or documents certifying their status.

Validity

You do not need a visa.

Fees

Exempt from visa fee

Visa Renewal

Exempt from requirements

Criteria

All visitors arriving into the Republic of Palau must meet the following criteria:

  • Passport Validity: U.S. military personnel must present official government issued photo ID-card, orders or documents certifying their status.
  • Onward Ticket: Not required
  • Purpose of Visit: U.S. military personnel must present official government issued photo ID-card, orders or documents certifying their status.
  • Health Requirements: Effective April 25th, 2023, Palau will no longer require COVID-19 vaccination to enter the country.
  • QR Code Arrival: Every visitor to Palau must fill and submit a completed QR Code Arrival Form upon arrival that is also available online and may be accessed and completed by travelers before arrival into the Republic of Palau.
  • Other requirements: Includes other evidence, travel documents or circumstances acceptable to the Director.

Foreign Government/International Organization Representative Visa (FG/IOR Visa)

A FG/IOR visa may be issued to a foreign national paid by a foreign government or an international organization who is required to reside in the Republic during the term of the program or consultancy.

Validity

The Visa may be issued for a period of up to five years or for the term of the program, whichever is shorter. The FG/IOR visa is meant for foreign governments such as officers or employees who are traveling on behalf of a foreign government or designated international organization on official business associated with the United Nations.

The purpose of the FG/IOR visa is to facilitate the temporary entry of individuals who are traveling to the Republic to engage in official activities on behalf of a foreign government or international organization.

Fees

Exempt from any fees

Visa Renewal

You must apply at least seven days before the expiration date of your current visa at the Division of Immigration.

Criteria

  • To be eligible for a FG/IOR visa to Palau, you must first provide evidence that you are employed by or represent a foreign government or international organization.
  • You should also provide evidence that the purpose of your visit is solely for official government business.
  • In addition, you must be able to demonstrate that you will not remain in the Republic for an extended period of time and that you have the financial support necessary to sustain your stay in the country.
  • Arrangements for UN and other international organizations and their staff vary according to the terms on which the office has been established. In all cases, however, the nomination of staff must be made from headquarters, not by the local office.
  • All foreign officials posted to Palau and their dependants must hold valid visas.
  • The Ministry of State shall promptly notify the Division of Immigration of any changes in status of foreign mission personnel, such as admission into Palau, their status, changes in position, or changes in family (such as the birth or adoption of a child; the arrival of a spouse, parent, or child from abroad; the departure from either the household or country, or death, of any family member; changes in marital status; etc.). This will allow the Division of Immigration to ensure the information is as accurate as possible.

Exemptions

The following categories of people are exempt from the return or onward ticket requirement:

  • Diplomats accredited to Palau / Diplomatic Missions. A Visa shall not be required for members of a diplomatic mission and their families, who have been formally recognized by the Ministry of State; and
  • persons holding an exemption letter approved by the President, ROP or signed by the Director;

Government Employee Visa (GEV)

A Government Employee Visa (GEV) may be issued to a foreign national who is an employee of the national government, a state government, or a public corporation of the Republic.

Validity

The Visa may be issued for a period of up to five years or for the term of the contract plus thirty days, whichever is shorter.

When you apply for a GEV for Palau, you will have to follow the Immigration requirements and submit a GET visa application and supporting documents to the Division of Immigration (DOI).

The GEV visa is meant for foreign nationals employed by the national government, state or public corporation of the Republic who are traveling on behalf of a government, state or public corporation of the Republic on official government business.

Fees

Exempt from any fees

Visa Renewal

You must apply at least seven days before the expiration date of your current visa at the Division of Immigration.

Criteria

  • To be eligible for a GEV visa to Palau, you must first provide evidence that you are employed by the national government, state or public corporation of the Republic.
  • Copy of Employment or Service contract
  • Copy of passport or travel document
  • One recent ID photo (2”x 2”) (6months)
  • Release Letter from Employer

Resident Visa

In simplest terms, an immigrant visa is a visa for a foreign individual who wishes to make the Republic of Palau (ROP) his or her permanent home.

A Resident Visa may be issued to foreign nationals at the discretion of the Director. In granting the Visa, the Director shall consider:

  • the purpose of the presence of the foreign national in the Republic;
  • whether or not the foreign national has Dependents who may lawfully stay in the Republic;
  • the ability of the foreign national to provide support for the foreign national; and
  • other factors relating to the best interests of the Republic.

Validity

The Visa may be issued for up to two years.

Foreign nationals holding a Resident Visa may work or conduct business activities in the Republic only in accordance with the labor, foreign investment, tax and any other laws and regulations of the Republic.

Fees

A fee of $200 shall be imposed for the issuance of a Resident Visa.

Visa Renewal

You must apply at least seven days before the expiration date of your current visa at the Division of Immigration.

Criteria

  • Physical exam report
  • Police clearance from the applicant’s current place of residence
  • Sworn statement that the applicant has never been convicted of a felony (notarized)
  • Statement of purpose of the presence the foreign national in the Republic (Notarized) (New applicants only)
  • Legit Source Income (Bank Statement)
  • Lease Agreement (Notarized)
  • One recent ID size photo (2”x 2”) (6months)
  • Copy of passport or travel document
  • Monthly Income & Expenditure form (Notarized) obtain a copy of this form from our office.
  • Release letter from former employer (Notarized) (New applicants only)
  • Consent letter from employer (New applicants only)
  • Other requirements: Includes other evidence, travel documents or circumstances acceptable to the Director.

Investor Visa

An Investor Visa may be issued to an foreign national who has received a Foreign Investment Approval Certificate and is certified by the Foreign Investment Board as an investor holding at least a 25% equity interest. No more than four Investor Visas shall be issued at the same time for a single Foreign Investment Approval Certificate.

Validity

The Visa may be issued for a period of up to five years, but in no case longer than the term of the Foreign Investment Approval Certificate.

Foreign nationals holding a Investor Visa may work or conduct business activities in the Republic only in accordance with the labor, foreign investment, tax and any other laws and regulations of the Republic.

Fees

A fee of $50 shall be imposed for the issuance of an Investor Visa.

Visa Renewal

You must apply at least seven days before the expiration date of your current visa at the Division of Immigration.

Criteria

  • Immigration Status of the sponsor (provide copy of visa/permit)
  • Physical Exam Report
  • Police clearance from the applicant’s current place of residence
  • Affidavit of support (Notarized)
  • One recent ID photo (2”x 2”) (6months)
  • Wage & Tax (W-2)
  • Statement of purpose of the presence of the foreign national in the Republic (Notarized) (New applicants only)
  • Sworn statement that the applicant has never been convicted of a felony (Notarized)
  • Copy of Passport or travel document
  • If dependent of your spouse provide a copy of valid marriage license (New applicants only)
  • Spouse joint affidavit (Notarized)
  • Copy of Birth Certificate (New applicants only)
  • Notarized consent letter from employer
  • Release Letter from Employer
  • Proof of Sponsor’s financial responsibilities

Missionary Visa

A Missionary Visa may be issued to foreign national affiliated with, and paid primarily by, recognized religious organizations, and who are involved with religious teaching or provide other services to the community.

Validity

The Visa may be issued for a period of up to five years, or for the term of the service, whichever is shorter.

Fees

  • No fee shall be imposed for issuance of a Missionary Visa
  • A fee of $10 shall be imposed for the issuance of a Visa for a Dependent of a Missionary.

Visa Renewal

You must apply at least seven days before the expiration date of your current visa at the Division of Immigration.

Criteria

  • Immigration Status of the sponsor (provide copy of visa/permit)
  • Physical Exam Report
  • Police clearance from the applicant’s current place of residence
  • Affidavit of support (Notarized)
  • One recent ID photo (2”x 2”) (6months)
  • Wage & Tax (W-2)
  • Statement of purpose of the presence of the foreign national in the Republic (Notarized) (New applicants only)
  • Sworn statement that the applicant has never been convicted of a felony (Notarized)
  • Copy of Passport or travel document
  • If dependent of your spouse provide a copy of valid marriage license (New applicants only)
  • Spouse joint affidavit (Notarized)
  • Copy of Birth Certificate (New applicants only)
  • Notarized consent letter from employer
  • Release Letter from Employer
  • Proof of Sponsor’s financial responsibilities

Student Visa

A Student Visa may be issued to an Foreign national who is enrolled as a full-time student at a school in the Republic and who will live in housing maintained by the school. The foreign national shall provide proof of admission and housing, and shall maintain good standing at the school. It shall be the duty of the student to submit proof of continuing enrollment and housing at such school at the beginning of each semester. A Student Visa shall be canceled upon failure to maintain good standing, being terminated by the school, or upon the student failing to enroll.

Validity

A Student Visa shall be valid for no more than one year.

Foreign nationals holding a Student may not work in the Republic, unless expressly exempted in writing by the Director. Foreign nationals holding any other Visa may work in the Republic only in accordance with the purpose for which the Visa was granted.

Fees

No fee shall be assessed for issuance of a Student Visa

Visa Renewal

You must apply at least seven days before the expiration date of your current visa at the Division of Immigration.

Criteria

  • School acceptance letter
  • Class Schedule
  • Copy of Passport
  • One recent ID photo (2”x 2”) (6months)

Work Permit

A Work Permit may be issued to foreign nationals who have been issued a permit from the Bureau of Labor & Human Resources allowing them to work in the Republic.

Such permit may be issued for a term equal to the labor permit issued to the foreign nationals.

Foreign Nationals who have been issued a provisional labor permit may be issued a temporary Visa for the duration of the provisional labor permit.

Validity

Please contact the Bureau of Labor & Human Resources with regards to the labor requirements.

Foreign nationals holding any Visa issued by the Division of Immigration may work or conduct business activities in the Republic only in accordance with the labor, foreign investment, tax and any other laws and regulations of the Republic.

Foreign nationals holding Student, Temporary or Tourist Visas may not work in the Republic, unless expressly exempted in writing by the Director.

Foreign nationals holding any other Visa may work in the Republic only in accordance with the purpose for which the Visa was granted.

Fees

Please contact the Bureau of Labor & Human Resources with regards to the fees.

Visa Renewal

You must apply at least seven days before the expiration date of your current visa or work permit at the Division of Immigration.

Criteria

Please contact the Bureau of Labor & Human Resources with regards to the labor requirements.

Elite Resident Visa

The Elite Resident Visa offers a long-term stay of ten (10) years and valid for unlimited multiple entries into the Republic.

In order for the Division of Immigration to carry out this provision of the law, the Minister of Finance is currently working on regulations as may be appropriate to carry out the purposes of this section.

Validity

An elite resident visa to visit the Republic shall be valid for a period of ten (10) years and valid for unlimited multiple entries into the Republic. The visa shall be renewable at the end of every ten year period upon a showing that the visa holder continues to meet the criteria set forth in subsection (b) of this Section.

Fees

The fee for issuing an initial elite resident visa shall be twenty thousand dollars ($20,000), payable to the National Treasury; the fee is non-refundable. The renewal fee shall be ten thousand dollars ($10,000), payable to the National Treasury; the renewal fee is non-refundable. The number of non-citizens that may hold a current elite resident visa at any time shall be limited to one thousand (1,000).

Dependents of an elite resident visa holder shall be issued elite resident dependent visas that shall expire simultaneously with the corresponding elite resident visa. For each such dependent visa, a non-refundable fee of twenty thousand dollars ($20,000) shall be paid to the National Treasury. For the purposes of this section, dependents shall be limited to spouses and children twenty-one (21) years of age or younger. The twenty thousand dollars ($20,000) non-refundable fee for dependent children may be prorated at two thousand dollars ($2,000) per year for the period, or number of years, less than ten (10) years and more than one (1) year, until each dependent child reaches age twenty-one (21).

Visa Renewal

An elite resident visa to visit the Republic shall be valid for a period of ten (10) years and valid for unlimited multiple entries into the Republic. The visa shall be renewable at the end of every ten year period upon a showing that the visa holder continues to meet the criteria set forth in subsection (b) of this Section.

You must apply at least seven days before the expiration date of your current visa at the Division of Immigration.

Criteria

  • The non-citizen shall have entered into a valid contract with a Palauan citizen, non-governmental entity wholly owned by a Palauan citizen, clan, family, or corporation, or business entity for the purchase or lease of a dwelling for the price of at least two hundred and fifty thousand dollars ($250,000) or more. To qualify under this subsection, the dwelling purchase must be made by cash payments. The non-citizen must pay the contract price in full prior to the issuance of an elite visa under this section;
  • The non-citizen and any dependents who will be living with the non-citizen in Palau shall not have been convicted of a felony or a crime of moral turpitude, and there shall not be any criminal charges of such offense pending against either the non-citizen or any dependents of the non-citizen who will be living with the non-citizen. Any non-citizen applicant for an elite resident visa shall be required to file an affidavit regarding his or her background, including but not limited to: convictions for felonies, convictions for crimes of moral turpitude, and any pending felony charges; and confirmation of applicant’s income, assets, savings, liabilities and obligations. In addition, any applicant for an elite resident visa shall be required to authorize the release of any and all information necessary for a civil and criminal background check that shall be performed by the Minister prior to the issuance of an elite resident visa. The Director shall set a nominal processing fee for this background check in accordance with 6 PNC Chapter 1;
  • The non-citizen shall have major medical health insurance, covering himself or herself, and any dependents who will be living with the non-citizen in Palau, to prevent any medical costs being incurred by the Republic on behalf of the non-citizen or any of his or her dependents residing in the Republic of Palau. The non-citizen applicant must also demonstrate that he, she, or any of his or her dependents living in the Republic of Palau under an elite tourist visa are entirely covered for any and all healthcare expenses, including pre-existing conditions, by his or her medical insurance;
  • Non-citizens holding elite resident visas shall not be permitted any discounted medical services in the Republic of Palau, and shall remain liable for the full cost of any healthcare service incurred by the non-citizen or his or her dependents residing in the Republic on an elite resident visa; and
  • An applicant for an elite resident visa must demonstrate to the Bureau, prior to the issuance of the elite resident visa and thereafter, annually, on the anniversary of such issuance, that he or she has adequate financial means with which to support himself or herself, and any of his or her dependents that shall reside in the Republic of Palau under his or her elite resident visa.
  • In addition to any of the grounds specified in 13 PNC Section 1006, the following shall constitute grounds for revocation of elite resident visas by the order of the President or the Minister of Finance:
  • Conviction of a violation of any applicable laws regarding foreign investments;  Where the purchase of the dwelling as required in § 1013(b)(1) is not finalized, the visa holder no longer lives in the purchased dwelling, or sells or otherwise disposes of the dwelling without purchasing another dwelling of equal or greater value;
  • Where the visa holder no longer meets the requirements of § 1013(b)(1) for any other reasons; and/or
  • Where the visa holder cannot show a source of income adequate for self-support and support of dependents.
  • Before any order of revocation becomes final, the visa holder shall be entitled to a hearing before the Minister of Finance or his or her designee, at which hearing the provisions of Subchapter 3 of 6 PNC, Chapter 1, shall apply.
  • Nothing in this section shall be construed to allow the holder of an elite resident visa to be eligible for any additional right of entry into the Republic of Palau.
  • A non-citizen applying for an elite resident visa may be denied such visa in accordance with the provisions set forth in 13 PNC Section 1005, as amended by RPPL 6-23.
    • Upon the death during the term of his or her elite resident visa, the elite resident visa may be transferred to a designated person for the remainder of the term of the deceased’s elite resident visa, provided that all of the applicable requirements of this section have been fulfilled by the deceased elite resident visa holder and by the transferee. The initial transfer fee for a transferred elite resident visa under this subsection shall be five thousand dollars ($5,000), payable to the National Treasury; this fee is non-refundable. A renewal of a transferred elite resident visa shall be subject to the renewal fees in subsection (d) of this section.
  • Holders of elite resident visas or their dependents shall not be eligible to hold a Labor Permit under Title 30 of the Palau National Code. Nothing herein shall be construed to exempt elite resident visa holders or their dependents from the requirements of Title 28 chapter 1.
  • The Minister of Finance may promulgate regulations as may be appropriate to carry out the purposes of this section.