Immigration Law at Palau
Here’s a clear and structured overview of immigration law in Palau, covering visas, work permits, residency options, and nationality rules:
1. Entry & Visa Policy for Visitors
Visa on Arrival: Most travelers (excluding citizens of Bangladesh and Myanmar) can obtain a 30-day visa on arrival, which can be extended twice—each extension costing US$50, bringing the maximum stay to 90 days.
Visa Requirements:
A passport valid for at least 6 months
Proof of onward or return travel
Evidence of sufficient funds (typically around US$200 per week)
All visitors must sign the Palau Pledge—a promise to act responsibly and protect the environment during their stay
Visa-Exempt Arrangements:
Nationals of the U.S., Marshall Islands, and Micronesia receive a 1-year visa on arrival
Citizens from Schengen/EU countries, Israel, Taiwan may stay up to 90 days within a 180-day period, per reciprocity agreements
2. Work Permits & Employment of Nonresident Workers
Employer-Sponsored Permits:
Employers must obtain work permits for nonresident workers, proving the job couldn’t be filled locally and publicly posting the vacancy for 30 days
Required Documentation:
Employment contract
Health certificate and police clearance
Passport copy
Proof of employer’s business registration
Job announcement record
Employer Obligations:
Provide safe working conditions, housing, food, and return transportation
Abide by minimum wage (US$3.50/hour) and housing deduction limits (max 25%)
Non-compliance can lead to penalties and deportation
Temporary Work:
Temporary permits for stays up to 90 days, extendable once (max 180 days).
In exceptional situations, Temporary Placement Permits allow reemployment under certain conditions for up to 12 months
3. Nationality, Residency & Digital Residency
Nationality:
Granted by birth (jus soli or jus sanguinis) if at least one parent has recognized Palauan ancestry
Naturalization is strictly ancestry-based; no residency-based path or marriage-based citizenship exists
Dual nationality is permitted since 2008; citizenship cannot be renounced and may only be revoked in cases of fraud
Digital Residency (2022 Law):
Allows non-residents to obtain a digital ID, but does not confer physical residency, business rights, or citizenship
The ID may aid in digital identity verification (e.g., KYC for crypto platforms), but real-world benefits are limited
Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Visitor Entry | Visa on arrival (30 days, extendable to 90 days); some nationals get 1-year entry |
| Entry Requirements | Passport, onward ticket, funds, Palau Pledge |
| Work Permits | Employer-sponsored; must advertise locally; follows strict documentation and compliance rules |
| Temporary Work | Temporary permits up to 90–180 days available |
| Nationality | By descent; very restrictive naturalization; dual nationality allowed |
| Digital Residency | Provides online ID only—no physical residency or citizenship rights |
Would you like assistance locating the Bureau of Immigration, steps for applying for digital residency, or navigating employer work permit compliance guidelines?
RELATED Blog
0 comments