Get Your Northern Mariana Islands Visa Online
Fast visa processing for this Pacific paradise from Saipan's beaches to historic battlegrounds, your island adventure awaits
TrustpilotHow to Get Your Northern Mariana Islands Visa
Simple 4-step process with most applications approved within 3-5 business days
1
Complete the online application
Fill out our streamlined application form with your personal details, travel dates, and purpose of visit. Our system validates each field in real-time to ensure accuracy before submission to US immigration authorities.
2
Upload your documents
Submit your passport scan showing the bio page with required validity, a recent passport photograph meeting US specifications, proof of accommodation in the CNMI, and flight itinerary. Our experts verify all documents meet immigration requirements.
3
We process your application
Your verified application is processed through official visa channels. We monitor the status continuously and provide updates via email and SMS throughout the processing period, keeping you informed at every stage.
4
Receive your travel authorization
Once approved, you will receive your visa or travel authorization electronically. For Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program eligible travelers, authorization arrives quickly by email. Present your documentation at CNMI immigration upon arrival.
Visa types needed for Northern Mariana Islands
United States ESTA - 2 years, Multiple entry
The Northern Mariana Islands Electronic Travel Authorization provides access to Pacific islands, WWII history, and tropical beauty. Valid for 2 Years with multiple entry, this visa allows stays up to 90 days. Perfect for tourism and business.
Applicants must submit the following documents:
- 🛂 Passport: Valid for at least 6 months with blank pages
- 📸 Digital Photo: Recent passport-style photograph
- ✈️ Travel Details: Confirmed travel itinerary
- 🏨 Accommodation: Hotel or host booking
- 💳 Payment: Credit or debit card for fee
Important to know
- Maximum stay: 90 days per visit
- Print visa for presentation at immigration
Northern Mariana Islands Visa Requirements & Entry Information
US Visa Waiver (ESTA)
Up to 90 days
For citizens of 40 VWP countries with valid ESTA authorization
Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver
Up to 45 days
Special waiver program for eligible Asian nationalities visiting CNMI
B-1/B-2 Tourist Visa
Up to 6 months
US tourist visa for leisure travel and visiting friends or family
Transit Authorization
Up to 29 days
For travelers transiting through CNMI to other Pacific destinations
Essential Requirements
- Passport valid for duration of stay minimum
- Passport photo 51x51mm with white background
- Confirmed round-trip flight to approved carrier
- Hotel booking or accommodation confirmation
- Proof of sufficient funds for your stay
- Completed I-94 or I-736 form as applicable
Visa Policy
The Northern Mariana Islands operates under US immigration law as an American commonwealth territory in the Pacific. Entry requirements mirror those of the United States mainland, with the important addition of the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program that provides simplified access for certain Asian nationalities.
US Visa Waiver Program (ESTA)
Citizens of 40 countries participating in the US Visa Waiver Program can enter the CNMI without a visa for stays up to 90 days. This requires a valid Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), obtainable online. VWP countries include the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and most EU member states. ESTA must be obtained before departure and remains valid for two years.
Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program
Unique to Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands, this special program allows citizens of certain countries to visit for up to 45 days without a US visa. Eligible nationalities include citizens of China, Philippines, South Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, and several other Asian nations. Travelers must complete Form I-736 and arrive on approved carriers.
Work and Business Visas
Business Visitor Entry
Business travelers may enter the CNMI under the same visa categories as the US mainland. The B-1 business visa allows attendance at conferences, business meetings, contract negotiations, and professional consultations. The Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program also permits business activities for eligible nationalities during the 45-day stay period.
Employment in the CNMI
Working in the Northern Mariana Islands requires proper employment authorization. The CNMI has transitioned to the US immigration system, meaning H-1B, H-2B, and other work visa categories apply. The territory previously had its own CW-1 visa category for transitional workers, though this is being phased out. Employers must petition for workers through US Citizenship and Immigration Services.
Investment and Long-term Options
Investors and entrepreneurs interested in the CNMI may pursue E-2 treaty investor visas if from eligible countries. The territory actively welcomes tourism and hospitality investments. Long-term residence pathways follow US immigration law, including family-based and employment-based green card categories.
Requirements and Fees
Document Requirements
All visitors need a machine-readable passport valid for the duration of stay. VWP travelers using ESTA must have an e-passport with electronic chip. The Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program requires completion of Form I-736 before or upon arrival. Additional documents may include proof of onward travel, accommodation bookings, and evidence of financial means.
Visa and Processing Fees
ESTA authorization costs $21 USD and is valid for two years or until passport expiration. The Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program has no fee but requires arrival on participating carriers. US B-1/B-2 tourist visa applications cost $185 USD plus potential reciprocity fees depending on nationality. DoVisa service fees provide expert guidance through the application process.
Special Considerations
The CNMI maintains stricter biosecurity controls than the US mainland. Certain food items, plants, and agricultural products require permits or are prohibited. Travelers should declare all such items on arrival. The territory is also a controlled substance-free zone with strict enforcement.
Travel Tips
Getting to the CNMI
Saipan International Airport serves as the main gateway with flights from Japan, South Korea, China, Guam, and other Pacific destinations. Korean Air, Asiana, Jeju Air, and several charter carriers operate regular services. From the US mainland, connections typically route through Guam or Hawaii. Inter-island flights connect Saipan with Tinian and Rota.
Best Time to Visit
The Northern Mariana Islands enjoy a tropical marine climate with temperatures averaging 27-30 degrees Celsius year-round. The dry season from December to June offers the best weather for beach activities and diving. The wet season brings afternoon showers but rarely disrupts travel plans. Peak tourist season coincides with Asian holidays and school vacations.
Cultural Experiences
The CNMI offers a unique blend of Chamorro and Carolinian indigenous cultures with American, Japanese, and Filipino influences. Visit the historic sites of Saipan's WWII battlefields, explore Tinian's atomic bomb loading pits, or experience traditional village fiestas. The islands are renowned for world-class diving, particularly at sites like the Grotto and Blue Hole. Local cuisine features kelaguen, red rice, and fresh Pacific seafood.
Why Choose DoVisa?
See the difference between applying yourself vs using our expert service
| Feature | Applying Yourself |  With DoVisa |
|---|---|---|
| Application reviewExpert review before submission | ✗No expert check | ✓100% reviewed by experts |
| Document validationCheck documents meet requirements | ✗Risk of rejection | ✓Pre-checked for errors |
| Customer supportHelp when you have questions | ✗Government offices only | ✓24/7 dedicated support |
| Form guidanceAssistance filling out forms | ✗Complex forms alone | ✓Step-by-step guidance |
| Status trackingKnow where your application is | ✗Manual checking | ✓Real-time updates |
| Refund if deniedProtection if visa is rejected | ✗No refund possible | ✓Money-back guarantee |
800+Visas processed
24/7Expert support
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"Applied for ESTA to visit Saipan from Japan. DoVisa made it so simple and fast. Beach vacation was amazing!"
"Great service for our CNMI trip. The team explained the difference between ESTA and Guam-CNMI waiver perfectly. Highly recommend!"
"Used the Guam-CNMI visa waiver program. DoVisa guided me through Form I-736 step by step. Smooth entry at Saipan airport."
"Diving trip to the Grotto was incredible. Thanks DoVisa for handling all the visa paperwork so I could focus on planning the adventure!"
"Family vacation to Saipan. Four visas processed without any issues. The WWII historical sites were fascinating."
"Good experience overall. Had questions about Korean citizen entry and support answered quickly. Would use again."
"Business trip to CNMI went perfectly. DoVisa ensured all documents were in order. Professional service."
"Visited Tinian to see the historical atomic bomb sites. DoVisa made the visa process effortless. Amazing trip!"
"Second time using DoVisa for Pacific island trips. Reliable service with good communication throughout."
"Honeymoon in Saipan was perfect! DoVisa handled our travel authorization quickly. Beautiful beaches and friendly locals."
"Excellent service! The team helped me understand US territory visa requirements. Saipan exceeded expectations."
"Straightforward process for ESTA. Good support team. The Northern Mariana Islands were absolutely stunning."
Northern Mariana Islands Visa FAQs
Do I need a visa to visit the Northern Mariana Islands?
Whether you need a visa depends on your nationality. Citizens of US Visa Waiver Program countries can enter with ESTA authorization for up to 90 days. Additionally, the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program allows citizens of certain Asian countries including China, Philippines, South Korea, and Taiwan to visit for up to 45 days without a US visa. US citizens and permanent residents need no visa or authorization.
What is the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program?
The Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program is a special US immigration program allowing citizens of eligible countries to visit Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands for tourism or business for up to 45 days without obtaining a US visa. Eligible nationalities include China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Philippines, and several others. Travelers must complete Form I-736, arrive on approved carriers, and meet other requirements.
What documents are required for CNMI entry?
Required documents vary by visa type: ESTA travelers need a valid e-passport with electronic chip and approved ESTA; Guam-CNMI waiver visitors need a valid passport, completed Form I-736, round-trip ticket on approved carrier, and proof of accommodation; US visa holders need passport with valid B-1/B-2 visa. All visitors may be asked for proof of sufficient funds and accommodation.
How long can I stay in the Northern Mariana Islands?
Stay duration depends on your entry authorization: US citizens have no limit; ESTA/VWP travelers can stay up to 90 days; Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver allows up to 45 days; US visa holders receive admission stamps typically allowing up to 6 months. The immigration officer determines the actual permitted stay upon arrival.
Can I extend my stay in the CNMI?
Extensions are possible but depend on your status. ESTA and Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver travelers generally cannot extend their stays and must depart before the authorized period ends. B-1/B-2 visa holders may apply for extensions through US Citizenship and Immigration Services by filing Form I-539 before the current authorized stay expires. Extensions are not guaranteed.
Can I work with a tourist visa in the Northern Mariana Islands?
No, tourist visas, ESTA, and the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program strictly prohibit employment. Working illegally can result in deportation and future entry bans. If you wish to work in the CNMI, you must obtain proper employment authorization through an employer petition before arrival. Business activities like meetings and conferences are permitted under visitor status.
Do I need to print my ESTA or travel authorization?
While ESTA and travel authorizations are electronically linked to your passport, we recommend carrying a printed copy as backup. Immigration officers can verify your status electronically, but having physical documentation helps if systems are unavailable. For the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver, keep your completed Form I-736 accessible for presentation.
How long does CNMI visa processing take?
Processing times vary: ESTA applications are typically processed within 72 hours, often within minutes; Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Form I-736 can be completed upon arrival but pre-completion is recommended; US visa applications require embassy appointments with processing taking 1-4 weeks depending on location and season.
What if my visa application is rejected?
If your ESTA is denied, you may need to apply for a regular US visa at an embassy. Guam-CNMI waiver denials at the port of entry can result in return to your origin country. US visa denials can be reapplied for after addressing the reason for refusal. DoVisa offers guidance to minimize rejection risks and provides support if issues arise.
What is the best time to visit the Northern Mariana Islands?
The CNMI enjoys tropical weather year-round with temperatures averaging 27-30 degrees Celsius. The dry season from December to June offers optimal conditions for beach activities, diving, and sightseeing. July to November brings more rainfall but rarely disrupts travel. Peak seasons coincide with Asian holidays including Chinese New Year, Golden Week, and Korean Chuseok.
How do I get to the Northern Mariana Islands?
Saipan International Airport is the main gateway with direct flights from Japan, South Korea, China, and Guam. Major carriers include Korean Air, Asiana, Jeju Air, and United Airlines. From the US mainland, connections typically route through Guam or Hawaii. Inter-island flights operated by Star Marianas Air connect Saipan with Tinian and Rota islands.
Is the CNMI the same as Guam for visa purposes?
While both are US territories and share the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program, they are separate immigration jurisdictions. Travel between Guam and CNMI is considered domestic US travel with no immigration checks for those already admitted. However, initial entry requirements are the same. Citizens of most countries can visit both destinations under the same waiver program.
What currency is used in the Northern Mariana Islands?
The US Dollar (USD) is the official currency. Credit cards are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, and tourist establishments. ATMs are available in Saipan's main areas. Smaller shops and local markets may prefer cash. No currency exchange is needed for visitors from the United States.
Are there any entry restrictions for the CNMI?
Standard US entry restrictions apply. Travelers with certain criminal convictions, previous immigration violations, or those from countries under travel restrictions may face additional scrutiny or denial. The CNMI has strict biosecurity rules prohibiting certain agricultural products. All visitors must clear US Customs and Border Protection upon arrival.
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