Marshall Islands: Travel Requirements, Health, and Medical Insurance
The Marshall Islands allow visa-free entry for most nationalities for tourist stays of between 30 and 90 days, with the permit granted directly upon arrival. The currency is the US dollar (USD) and the official languages are Marshallese and English.
The country is made up of coral atolls scattered across the central Pacific, including Bikini, known for the nuclear tests carried out there in the 20th century and now a site of diving and historical interest. Basic medical care is available in Majuro, but complex cases are evacuated to Hawaii or the Philippines, which is why travel insurance with evacuation coverage is advisable for any visitor.
Visa and health for travelers
Visa: Most nationalities enter without a visa for tourist stays of 30 to 90 days, with permits granted upon arrival.
Health & travel insurance: Basic medical care is available in Majuro, but complex cases are evacuated to Hawaii or the Philippines; insurance with evacuation coverage is recommended.
Visa and Entry Requirements
Most nationalities receive an entry permit upon arrival, with no prior consular process, for tourist stays of between 30 and 90 days. Travel between atolls depends on infrequent flights, so it's worth planning ahead.
- Passport valid for at least six months.
- Return or onward travel ticket.
- Special permit if you plan to visit remote atolls such as Bikini, arranged through authorized operators.
Health, Hospitals, and Travel Insurance
Majuro has the country's main hospital, with basic capacity. Complex medical cases are usually evacuated to Hawaii or the Philippines, a transfer that depends on the availability of international flights.
Assist-365 covers hospitalization, COVID-19, and 24-hour medical assistance in the Marshall Islands; code MEDALLOADV2023 gives a discount when you get a quote for the plan.
Transportation and Currency
The currency is the US dollar (USD). Transport between atolls is mainly by small aircraft, with limited frequency, or by boat for longer routes.
When to Travel
The dry season, from December to April, offers the most stable weather for exploring the atolls. The wet season, from May to November, brings more rain, although cyclone risk is relatively low in the region.
Travel checklist for Marshall Islands
Quick list based on this guide's real data (not generic) before traveling to Marshall Islands.
- Check the visa requirement for Marshall Islands based on your passport: Most nationalities enter without a visa for tourist stays of 30 to 90 days, with permits granted upon arrival.
- Passport valid for at least 6 months from the entry date
- Travel medical insurance arranged, keeping this in mind: Basic medical care is available in Majuro, but complex cases are evacuated to Hawaii or the Philippines; insurance with evacuation coverage is recommended.
- Save Marshall Islands's emergency number: 911, along with your insurer's contact
- Cash or a no-fee card in Dolar estadounidense (USD)
- Physical and digital copies of passport, insurance and bookings
- Required or recommended vaccines up to date for the region
- eSIM or international data plan active on arrival
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa to travel to the Marshall Islands?
Not for most nationalities: entry permits are granted upon arrival for tourist stays of between 30 and 90 days.
What is the emergency number in the Marshall Islands?
911, the same as in the United States, given the country's close relationship with that system.
Can I visit Bikini Atoll?
Yes, through authorized operators and special permits, mainly for diving the historic wrecks and for historical interest.
What currency should I use in the Marshall Islands?
The US dollar (USD), the country's official currency.
