Key Points:
- Starting November 30, 2024, travelers entering Guam under the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program will be required to obtain the Guam-CNMI Electronic Travel Authorization (G-CNMI ETA) online prior to travel.
- Until November 29, 2024, travelers can choose between obtaining the G-CNMI ETA online or submitting the “I-736” form in paper at immigration. However, the “I-736” form will no longer be accepted for flights arriving on or after November 30, 2024, at 12:00 AM (Guam time). It is recommended that travelers planning to enter Guam around November 29 avoid using the “I-736” and instead obtain either an ESTA or a G-CNMI ETA in advance.
- Travelers are advised to apply for the G-CNMI ETA at least seven days before boarding their flight and no later than five days before departure.
- Travelers with a valid U.S. visa (including green card holders) or an approved ESTA under the U.S. Visa Waiver Program are not required to obtain the G-CNMI ETA or submit the “I-736” form.
Details:
- Requirements for Japanese Nationals:
Japanese passport holders entering Guam must have their passport, a customs declaration form (including the electronic version, EDF), and one of the following:- (1) A U.S. visa
- (2) An ESTA under the U.S. Visa Waiver Program
- (3) A G-CNMI ETA
- Eligibility for the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program:
Japanese nationals are eligible for this program and can travel to Guam or the Northern Mariana Islands for short-term business or tourism without a U.S. visa or ESTA for stays of up to 45 days. This requires obtaining the free G-CNMI ETA online if traveling with a participating airline (e.g., JAL, United Airlines). - Transition Period for the “I-736” Form:
- Until November 29, 2024, travelers can either obtain the G-CNMI ETA online or submit the “I-736” form upon arrival.
- Starting November 30, 2024, at 12:00 AM (Guam time), the “I-736” form will no longer be valid, and only the G-CNMI ETA obtained online will be accepted.
- Travelers entering Guam on November 29 or later are advised to avoid relying on the “I-736” form, as flight delays or cancellations may lead to entry denial if the form becomes invalid.
- Guidance from the Guam Visitors Bureau:
- After November 30, 2024, travelers without a U.S. visa, ESTA, or G-CNMI ETA will be denied entry and sent back to their country of origin.
- It is recommended to apply for the G-CNMI ETA at least seven days before boarding, and no later than five days prior.
- No G-CNMI ETA Required for U.S. Visa/ESTA Holders:
Travelers with a valid U.S. visa (including green card holders) or an approved ESTA under the U.S. Visa Waiver Program do not need to obtain the G-CNMI ETA or submit the “I-736” form. - Additional Notes:
- Approval of the G-CNMI ETA does not guarantee entry into Guam.
G-CNMI ETA Application Website:
https://g-cnmi-eta.cbp.dhs.gov/
For further details, please visit the Guam Visitors Bureau website:
https://www.visitguam.jp/planning/immigration-to-guam/
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