GENVISEC
Protecting People and Profit
Micronesia
Overall country Risk Rating:
AA -stable regulated state, there is a low/medium HSE risk.
Genvisec advises that all business and leisure travel should be allowed to
Micronesia.
Crime
Crime levels are low. However, there are regular reports of petty crime against foreigners, including break-ins and non-violent theft. Take sensible precautions to protect your belongings.
In November 2010 there was an attempted sexual assault in Pohnpei against two western women during a morning jog. A similar incident happened in November 2009 in Yap when a woman was attacked and killed while jogging in the early morning. Women should take care if alone in secluded areas and be aware that standards of dress are more conservative in Micronesia than in many western countries.
Local Travel
There are treacherous channel currents and rogue waves in parts of the islands. You should wear appropriate safety equipment and take local advice at all times if you are taking part in adventure sports.
Mobile telephones
International roaming isn’t available in the Federated States of Micronesia. This means that your UK mobile phone will not be usable.
Health
There has been an increase in reported measles cases in Micronesia. Make sure your vaccinations are up to date.
Medical facilities in Micronesia are adequate for uncomplicated treatment. For more serious or complicated problems, medical evacuation (to Guam or Australia) may be needed. 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.
If you need emergency medical assistance during your trip, dial 330 2444 for Chuuk, 3703012 for Kosrae, 320 2213 for Pohnpei or 350 3446 for Yap and ask for an ambulance. You should contact your insurance/medical assistance company promptly if you are referred to a medical facility for treatment.
Local laws and customs
There are heavy penalties for drug offences.
Homosexuality is illegal in the Federated States of Micronesia. Open displays of affection between same-sex partners may offend.
Entry Requirements
Tourist/visitor visas are issued on arrival and the duration of stay is authorised for the number of days requested. You may extend your visa by up to 30 days. Subsequent extensions may be granted for another 30 days but the total time of stay shall not exceed 90 days. There is no fee charged for an extension of stay. Visa extensions are available from: Chief Immigration Officer, Palikir, Pohnpei. Telephone: + (691) 320 5844 / 320 2605, fax; +(691) 320 7250 / 6240.
Passport validity
Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 120 days from the date of exit from Micronesia.
Natural disasters
The Islands of Micronesia are vulnerable to natural disasters, including tropical cyclones, floods and severe droughts. Monitor local and international weather updates from the World Meteorological Organisation carefully and follow any instructions issued by the local authorities.
See our Tropical cyclones page for information and advice about what to do if you’re caught up in a storm
Consular assistance
UK Citizens
There is no British Embassy in Micronesia. The UK is currently represented in Micronesia through the British High Commission in Suva Fiji.
British High Commission Suva
British High Commission Suva
47 Gladstone Road
Suva
Fiji
Fiji
Telephone
+679 3229 100
Fax
+679 3229 132
Office hours:
Monday to Thursday: 8am to 12:40pm / 1pm to 4pm
Friday: 8am to 1pm
Opening hours for visas, consular and immigration:
Monday to Thursday: 10am to 12pm
US citizens
No representation, nearest representation is in Hawai:
1725 N Street, N.W.
20036
Washington
United States
Phone
+1-202-223-4383
Fax
+1-202-223-4391
+1-202-223-4394
firstsecretary@fsmembassydc.org
Micronesia Consulate United States
3049 Ualena Street, Suite 908
96819
Honolulu
Hawaii
United States
Phone
+1-808-836-4775
Fax
+1-808-836-6896
Australian Citizens
Australian Embassy
PO Box S
Kolonia, Pohnpei FSM 96941
Telephone No: (691) 320-5448
Fax No: (691) 320-5449
E-mail: phpi.mail@dfat.gov.au