Traveling to Northern Mariana Islands: Visa Policy and ESTA
The Northern Mariana Islands is a beautiful US territory situated in the western Pacific Ocean. If you are planning a trip to the Northern Mariana Islands, it's essential to understand the visa policy and Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) requirements to ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.
Visa Policy for Northern Mariana Islands
As Northern Mariana Islands is a US territory, US visa policy applies to it. Therefore, if you're not eligible for visa-free travel to the USA, you need to apply for a US visa to visit the Northern Mariana Islands.
However, if you are eligible for the US Visa Waiver Program (VWP), you can travel to the Northern Mariana Islands without obtaining a visa. VWP nationals must obtain ESTA authorization before boarding a plane or ship to the Northern Mariana Islands.
ESTA for Northern Mariana Islands
ESTA is an Electronic System for Travel Authorization that grants visa-free travel to US territories, including the Northern Mariana Islands, for VWP nationals. ESTA is not a visa, but it's a prerequisite for entering the Northern Mariana Islands by air or sea.
To apply for ESTA, you can visit the official ESTA website and fill out the application form. The ESTA fee is $4, and if your application is approved, you will be charged an additional $10.
Visa Waiver Program for Northern Mariana Islands
The Northern Mariana Islands has additional Visa Waiver Programs for nationals of some countries, allowing them to travel and stay in the Northern Mariana Islands for up to 45 days without obtaining a visa or ESTA.
The countries include Australia, Brunei, China (14 days), Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, Nauru, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, and the United Kingdom. However, these nationals must complete the I-736 Form (available online and on paper) before traveling and possess a non-refundable return ticket to their home country.
Restrictions for Visa Waiver Program for Northern Mariana Islands
Visa Waiver Program nationals are not allowed to travel to other parts of the USA, including the mainland, without obtaining a visa or ESTA. Additionally, they cannot extend their stay beyond 45 days in the Northern Mariana Islands.
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