Residence in Marshall Islands: permits and requirements
Living legally in Marshall Islands is possible through 4 permit types: work, investment, family, study. Each program has its own requirements; below are the duration, renewal, costs and documentation according to the country's official sources.
Work Permit
Residence type #1 of 4
Permit for foreigners employed by companies registered in the Republic of the Marshall Islands
Requirements
- Job offer from a company registered in the RMI
- Show that no Marshallese is available
- Approval of the Ministry of Labour
- Relevant qualifications and experience
- Good health and character
Documentation
- In-force passport
- Employment contract
- Letter from the employer
- Degrees and certifications
- Medical certificate
- Criminal record certificate
- Passport-size photographs
Frequently asked questions about residence in Marshall Islands
How many types of residence permits are there in Marshall Islands?
Marshall Islands offers 4 residence permit types, grouped into the categories work, investment, family, study. Each permit has its own requirements, duration and documentation, detailed in this fact sheet according to the country's official sources.
How long do residence permits in Marshall Islands last?
Durations vary by permit type: Length of the employment contract (typically 1 year; 1-year renewals) plus a coextensive E-1 visa — two-track system (Labor Act 2006 + Immigration Act 2006); 1 year (Foreign Investor Permit; requires a valid Foreign Investment Business License); 1 to 2 years; Duration of the academic program. The exact details of each type appear in the corresponding fact sheet.
Can residence permits in Marshall Islands be renewed?
Yes. All residence permit types of Marshall Islands (4 in total) are renewable before their expiration, according to the rules of each program.
What documentation is usually required to reside in Marshall Islands?
Although each permit requires its own file, the most recurrent documents are: In-force passport; Certificado médico; Certificado de antecedentes penales; Passport-size photographs. The complete list by residence type appears in each fact sheet, together with the corresponding official link.
Does residence in Marshall Islands lead to nationality?
Yes, through the Naturalisation by residence pathway, which requires 10 years of residence (with annual quota and exam). The complete requirements are in the nationality fact sheet of Marshall Islands.
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Anything to correct or add about Marshall Islands?
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