Last updated: 23 Oct 2025
Federated States of Micronesia
About
| The Federated States of Micronesia boast some of the clearest-blue seas you'll ever encounter, with white, crumbly sand shores. In islands such as Chuuk, are shallow and vast lagoons of incredible beauty, filled with shipwrecks and colourful coral. See the states most important historical sites: The Spanish Wall; the Catholic Bell Tower in Pohnpei; the Japanese Wartime Communication Centre at Xavier High School in Chuuk; the ancient ruins of Nan Madol in Pohnpei; and the ruins of INSARU in Kosrae. Explore Pohnpei's magnificent waterfalls, with pools ideal for bathing. Two of the most beautiful are Kepirohi and Sahwartik. A 20-minute ride out of Kolonia is the Nanpil River and a large natural pool. On the same river are the spectacular Liduduhniap Twin Waterfalls. |
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| Capital: | Palikir (Pohnpei) (PNI) |
| Currency: | US Dollar (USD) |
| Language: | English; Micronesian languages, including Chuukese, Kosrean, Pohnpian and Yapese, are widely spoken. |
| Dialling code from SA: | +691 |
| Time Zones: | UT/ GMT + 10 (8 hours ahead of South Africa) |
| Best Time to go: | Year-round |
| Best For: | Island life |
| Plugs: | 120 volts AC, 60Hz. Plugs are of the flat two-pin type, sometimes with a third grounding pin. |
| Drinking Water: | Mains water in hotels and towns is safe to drink. Outside of the main towns, water may be contaminated. |
| Health: | Doctors may require cash payment regardless of whether you have health insurance. Medical facilities are well-equipped. Note that there are only a few decompression chambers amoung the islands. |
| Customs: | Permission should always be sought before taking photographs. |
| Customs on Yap: | Women should cover their thighs when in public places. Long shorts (down to the knee) or sarongs are fine, as are jeans or slacks. Men should also not wear shorts that are "too short". Swimwear should be reserved for the beach / pool. For women, don’t squat in public as it is considered improper and disrespectful. |
| Local Offences / Laws: | You may need permission before entering islands. |
Issuing Authorities
Public Holidays 2025: Jan 1; Mar 31; May 9, 10; Oct 24; Nov 3, 11, 23-24; Dec 25
Public Holidays 2026: Jan 1; Mar 31; May 10-11; Oct 23-24; Nov 3, 11, 23, 26; Dec 25
Visa Requirements
South African citizens do not require a visa for Micronesia for a tourist visa for a stay of up to 30 days.
Entry Requirements
- Valid passport (valid for 120 days beyond entry date)
- Return / onward travel plans
- Departure tax is payable when leaving Micronesia
Should you be travelling for more than 30 days, or for other purposes, you must apply for an entry permit:
Chief, Division of Immigration & Labor
Department of Justice FSM National Government
PO Box PS-157 Palikir, Pohnpei FM 96941
Tel: +691-320-5844 or 2606
E-mail: passport@gov.fm
For additional information on regulations: visit-micronesia.fm/regulations
SA Representative
Representation accredited from Canberra, Australia
Travel Health
| Compulsory: | None |
| Recommended Travel Vaccines: | Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, Tetanus, Polio |
