Micronesia
Oceania • FSM
Last updated: October 1, 2026
The Federated States of Micronesia is a breathtaking archipelago in the Western Pacific known for its pristine marine life, lush tropical islands, and significant World War II historical sites. It offers an off-the-beaten-path experience ideal for divers, history buffs, and those seeking serene natural beauty away from mass tourism.
Visa Requirements
Citizens of the United States, Palau, and the Marshall Islands can enter visa-free indefinitely. Most other nationalities, including those from EU countries, Australia, and Canada, are granted a 30-day entry permit upon arrival, which can be extended.
Typically Required Documents
- Passport valid for at least 120 days beyond the date of entry
- Proof of onward or return travel ticket
- Completed entry form provided by the airline or immigration
- Proof of sufficient funds for the duration of the stay
Popular Attractions
Nan Madol, the ancient ruined city built of basalt logs on the island of Pohnpei, is often called the Venice of the Pacific.
Chuuk Lagoon serves as a world-renowned destination for wreck diving, featuring dozens of sunken Japanese ships from World War II.
Yap offers unique cultural experiences, most notably the sight of massive stone money discs still used in traditional exchanges today.
Kosrae provides stunning hiking opportunities through tropical rainforests that lead to hidden waterfalls and ancient ruins like Lelu.
Palikir, the capital, offers visitors a glimpse into the political heart of the islands surrounded by beautiful lush hills and coastal scenery.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Dress modestly, especially when away from the beach, as the local culture is conservative and values covering shoulders and knees.
Always ask for permission before taking photographs of locals or private property to show respect for individual privacy.
Remove your shoes before entering a private residence or certain community meeting houses as a sign of respect.
Understand that island time is the standard; patience is highly valued, and rushing locals is considered impolite.
Avoid public displays of affection as the local society is generally traditional and conservative regarding intimacy.
Participate in local customs with humility and grace if invited to ceremonies, as hospitality is a cornerstone of Micronesian life.
Safety Tips
Practice caution when swimming in open water due to unpredictable currents and tides that can change rapidly.
Ensure you stay hydrated and use sun protection, as the tropical sun is extremely intense near the equator.
Keep your belongings secure and avoid walking alone in poorly lit or isolated areas late at night.
Be aware of local medical limitations, as specialized healthcare facilities are extremely scarce and often require evacuation.
Listen to local authorities regarding weather warnings, particularly during typhoon season, and have an evacuation plan ready.
Only drink bottled or treated water to avoid waterborne illnesses that can occur in some rural island areas.
AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.
Hepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to the Federated States of Micronesia.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to the Federated States of Micronesia. Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.
View sourceMeasles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)
Source: CDC
All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the MMR vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel.
View sourcePolio
Source: Canada_Travel
Verify that your polio vaccination is current prior to travel.
View sourceZika virus
Source: UK_FCDO
No specific vaccine required for entry; recommended due to risk of Zika virus in the region.
View sourceDengue
Source: UK_FCDO
No specific vaccine required for entry; recommended due to risk of dengue in the region.
View sourceYellow fever
Source: ECDC
Required for travelers arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.
View sourceCore Vaccines
Routine Vaccines (MMR, Tdap, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure you are up to date on routine vaccines before every trip.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, Varicella, Polio, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure you are up to date on routine vaccines before every trip.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTaP, Polio, etc.)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, etc.)
Source: CDC
Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date before travel.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers to Micronesia due to potential exposure through food and water.
View sourceTdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
Source: CDC
Routine vaccination recommended for all travelers, especially those without recent boosters.
View sourceMMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
Source: CDC
Routine vaccination recommended for all travelers.
View sourceRoutine vaccines
Source: CDC
Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip.
Some of these vaccines include Chickenpox (Varicella), Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis (DTaP, Tdap, or Td), Flu (influenza), Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR), Polio, and Shingles.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccine
Source: CDC
All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines.
Please see Your COVID-19 Vaccination for more information.
View sourceChikungunya Prevention
Source: Canada_Travel
Prevent mosquito bites at all times to reduce the risk of chikungunya infection.
Chikungunya is a disease spread to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito, causing fever and joint pain. A vaccine for the prevention of chikungunya is approved in Canada.
View sourceDengue Fever Prevention
Source: Canada_Travel
Protect yourself from mosquito bites, particularly around sunrise and sunset, to prevent dengue fever.
Dengue is a disease spread to humans by mosquito bites, causing severe flu-like symptoms. There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue fever.
View sourcePolio
Source: Canada_Travel
Before traveling to Micronesia, verify that your polio vaccination is current to prevent polio infection.
Polio is a highly contagious disease caused by the poliovirus. In severe cases, polio can damage a person's nervous system, leading to weakness or paralysis.
View sourceVaccinations
Source: UK_FCDO
At least 8 weeks before travel
Check the latest vaccine recommendations for the Federated States of Micronesia.
View sourceTravel health insurance
Source: UK_FCDO
Before travel
Ensure you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation.
View sourceMosquito bite prevention measures
Source: ECDC
Recommended year-round to prevent mosquito-borne diseases such as Zika virus, dengue, and chikungunya.
Use insect repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and sleep under mosquito nets.
View sourceSeasonal Influenza
Source: WHO
Recommended for all travelers to FSM to prevent seasonal influenza, which can occur year-round in tropical climates.
View sourceTetanus-Diphtheria-Pertussis (Tdap)
Source: WHO
Recommended for all travelers to FSM to prevent tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis infections, especially for those who have not received a booster dose in the past 10 years.
View sourceInsect Bite Prevention measures (e.g., DEET)
Source: CDC
To prevent mosquito-borne diseases, especially in rural areas.
View sourceFor Most Travelers
Food and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
To prevent gastrointestinal illness; consume only safe food and beverages.
Eat food that is cooked and served hot; drink boiled or bottled water.
View sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
Use insect repellent and wear protective clothing to prevent mosquito-borne diseases.
Use EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or IR3535.
View sourceFood and water safety
Source: CDC
Practice safe eating and drinking habits to prevent travelers' diarrhea and other foodborne illnesses.
Drink only bottled, sealed, or treated water; avoid undercooked food.
View sourceMalaria prevention (if applicable)
Source: CDC
Consider if traveling to areas with malaria risk.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers due to potential exposure through contaminated food or water.
View sourceFood and Water Safety Precautions
Source: CDC
Travelers should take precautions to avoid food and waterborne illnesses.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Considered for travelers who might have sexual contact with a new partner, get a tattoo, or have medical procedures.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
Recommended to be fully vaccinated before travel to reduce risk of infection.
View sourceItinerary-Specific
Hepatitis B
Source: CDC
Consider if you might have sexual contact, get a tattoo, or receive a medical procedure.
View sourceMalaria medication if traveling to high-risk areas
Source: CDC
Consider depending on the specific itinerary and activities.
View source