Non-citizens traveling to Palau intending to establish residency in the island nation will have to report their intent to the chief executive officer of the state.
The proposal was included in President Surangel Whipps Jr.’s proposed budget bill for Financial Year 2026.
The proposed policy change mandates that any person who is not a citizen of a Republic and who enters the Republic with the intent to establish residency “shall on or before 90 days after clearance by the Director of the Bureau of Customs and Protection report his intent to the chief executive officer of the state in which he intends to reside.”
IN December last year, President Whipps signed Presidential Directive No. 24-65, instituting immigration controls for 90 days to combat criminal activity linked to foreign nationals.
The directive came amid recent high-profile cases of criminal activity involving foreign nationals, including a murder, immigration fraud, and drug trafficking. Past instances of illegal gambling operations and related crimes further highlight systemic vulnerabilities in visa and work permit processes.
The directive has assigned the National Security Coordinator to make approvals for tourist visa extensions and investor visa renewals, reviews of work permit applications submitted by individuals currently on tourist visas, and screening applications under the Foreign Investment Board’s review process.
The directive also assigned the coordinator to review new and renewed visas in 10 categories—including business, work, and resident visas who may recommend revocation if warranted. (By: Bernadette Carreon)