Visas for Guam & Saipan (CNMI): Requirements & Application Guide

Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI, capital Saipan) are U.S. territories with a **joint visa regime** distinct from the 50 states. The **Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program (VWP)** allows visa-free entry for certain nationals; others need a U.S. visa.

Who Needs a Visa?

• Visa Waiver (up to 45 days, no extension): Citizens of VWP countries (e.g., Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, UK, Australia, NZ, Singapore, Brunei, Hong Kong SAR, plus Russia & China *only for Guam/CNMI*—not valid for US mainland).
• U.S. Visa Required: All other nationalities (including Philippines, India, Vietnam, etc.) must obtain a U.S. B-1/B-2 visa (or other appropriate class) at a U.S. embassy/consulate.
• U.S. Citizens/LPRs: No visa needed; government-issued photo ID sufficient.

Standard Requirements (Visa Applicants)

1. Valid Passport: 6+ months beyond stay.
2. DS-160 Confirmation: Online nonimmigrant visa application.
3. Visa Fee: $185 (B-1/B-2) paid per embassy instructions.
4. Photo: 2x2 inches, US visa spec.
5. Proof of Ties/Intent: Employment, property, family, finances showing return.
6. Itinerary: Round-trip ticket, hotel/accommodation proof.
7. Financial Proof: Bank statements, sponsor letter, credit cards.

Where & How to Apply

1. Locate Nearest U.S. Embassy/Consulate: usembassy.gov.
2. Schedule Interview: Via cgifederal.secure.force.com (or local provider).
3. Attend Interview: Bring all documents. Officer assesses eligibility.
4. Processing: Typically 3–10 business days post-approval; administrative processing can add weeks/months.

Critical Notes

• Guam/CNMI VWP ≠ US Mainland VWP. ESTA not used. Paper I-736 (Guam-CNMI) or I-94W at entry.
• No "Guam-only" visa. A U.S. visa admits to all U.S. jurisdictions (unless annotated otherwise).
• Chinese/Russian Nationals: Eligible for Guam/CNMI VWP *only* (not US mainland). Must have EVUS (China) or meet other conditions.
• Apply Early: 3+ months before travel recommended.

Always verify current rules at travel.state.gov and the specific embassy website.