FSM Citizens Urged to Keep Legal Documentation on their Persons

So as not to get swept up in the new US administration’s mass deportation scheme

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THINGS YOU NEED TO HAVE ON YOUR PERSON AT ALL TIMES:

1. Your copy of your updated passport

2. Your copy of your updated I-94

3. The contacts for your Embassy in D.C., or Consulate office of your respective places.

4. Stay out of trouble. Be cautious, avoid conflicts, and protect your status.

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The FSM Embassy in Washington D.C. shared this update on January 27 through the FSM President’s Facebook page, a reminder for FSM citizens in the United States and its territories in light of the changes in policy under the new U.S. Administration: “We will continue to track these changes in the new U.S. Administration that may affect citizens. 

“Many of you are feeling anxious due to the recent mass deportation events happening in America. It’s important to note that not all U.S. states and officials are fully aware of the Compact of Free Association (COFA) and the rights it grants us. In their efforts to identify and remove ‘illegal’ immigrants, some may wrongfully target us simply because we ‘look out of place.’

“Stay informed and vigilant. Unfortunately, there is a lack of education among some officers and officials about what COFA is and what it means for us. While the Compact allows us to live, work, and study in the U.S. without a visa, this does not mean we are completely immune to legal issues. If you get into trouble, it could lead to deportation—even under COFA.

“Until an official notice is released from Washington regarding COFA changes, please try not to live in fear. The relationship between the U.S. and Micronesia has been strong for decades, and I don’t foresee drastic changes happening. I pray this continues to be the case.

“Finally, share this information. It’s crucial that more people understand what COFA is and how it protects us. Stay smart, stay safe, and support one another.”

The FSM Consulate in Portland also confirmed with Chikin Melele that the recommendation is to keep your copy of your passport and i94 information with you at all times. (The RMI Consulate advised RMI citizens to secure their documents at home and to provide their state-issued ID if questioned outside the home.) Contact your closest Consulate, if your passport is expired.

Citizens of the Federated States of Micronesia, Republic of Palau and Republic of the Marshall Islands are entitled under their respective Compacts to travel and apply for admission to the United States as nonimmigrants without visas. The United States has the right to set terms and conditions on the nonimmigrant stay of FSM and RMI citizens, however currently they are granted an unlimited length of stay. To emphasize the FSM presidential statement, the Compact of Free Assocation between the United States and Micronesia is not likely to change.

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To get your most recent I-94, visit: https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov/home

For FSM Passport Application: https://fsmembassy.fm/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/FSM_Passport_Form_Fee_Inst-Rev-6.5.15.pdf

For Palau Passport Application: http://www.palauembassy.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/Passport-Application-Form-Fillable-1.pdf

For RMI Passport Application: https://www.rmiembassyus.comcastbiz.net/indez.php/consular/consularpassport

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Read more about the response of Micronesians in the FSM: Micronesians Respond to U.S. Mass Deportation Scheme