Safety and Security

Crime

Most Irish visitors to the FSM stay in resorts and these are generally safe, however, petty crime may still occur.

If you intend to move outside resort areas, be aware of your surroundings and take additional precautions:

• Don’t carry your credit card, travel tickets and money together - leave spare cash and valuables in a safe place. 
• Don’t carry your passport unless absolutely necessary and leave a copy of your passport (and travel and insurance documents) with family or friends at home.
• Lock your luggage as a sensible precaution against luggage tampering, including theft.

Lost or stolen passports

Given that the nearest Irish Embassy is a significant distance away in Manila, Philippines, dealing with a lost or stolen passport can be extremely inconvenient and can take time to resolve.

Reporting crime

If you’re a victim of a crime while in FSM, report it to the local police immediately. You can contact the Irish Embassy in Manila if you need help.

Local Laws and Customs

Remember, the local laws apply to you as a visitor and it is your responsibility to follow them. Be sensitive to local customs, traditions and practices as your behaviour may be seen as improper, hostile or may even be illegal.

Illegal drugs

There are heavy penalties for all drug offences.

LGBT

There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTQI+ events in the FSM, however, homosexuality is not widely accepted in the Federated States of Micronesia.

Natural Disasters and Climate

Cyclones

FSM’s monsoon season is between November and April. You should monitor local and international weather updates from the World Meteorological Organisation and follow any instructions issued by the local authorities.

Flights in and out of affected areas could be delayed or suspended and you should be aware that available flights may fill quickly.

Health

Medical facilities

If you need emergency medical assistance during your trip, dial 911 and ask for assistance. You should contact your insurance/medical assistance company as soon as you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Medical facilities in FSM are limited but adequate for uncomplicated treatment. Serious medical conditions requiring hospitalisation or evacuation may be very expensive. Emergency treatment or treatment for serious conditions is limited and so you may be medically evacuated to another country. This can take time to arrange and costs can escalate quickly, so make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.

Cases of measles have been reported in FSM. Make sure your vaccinations are up to date.

Additional Information

Entry requirements (visa/passport)

Visas

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

E-mail: passport@gov.fm

Passports

Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 120 days from the date of exit from FSM. Passport cards cannot be used.