Starting November 30, 2024, registration for the Guam-CNMI Electronic Travel Authorization (Guam-CNMI ETA) will be required for entry into Guam if you are a national of Korea, Japan, Singapore, Australia, or other participating countries and do not possess a U.S. visa or an ESTA.

Previously, the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program could be submitted in paper format as “I-736.” However, from 12:00 AM on November 30, 2024 (Guam local time), paper-based “I-736” will no longer be valid for entry into Guam. Instead, registration for the Guam-CNMI ETA, which can only be issued online, is required. This application is free, digital, and once approved, valid for up to two years without the need for reapplication, making it very convenient.

Below is an excerpt from the Guam Visitors Bureau website for your reference:

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About the Guam-Northern Mariana Islands Visa Waiver Program and the Electronic Travel Authorization “Guam-CNMI ETA”

Travelers from certain participating countries, including South Korea and Japan (Note 1), can enter Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands under the Guam-Northern Mariana Islands Visa Waiver Program without a U.S. visa or ESTA. Instead, they can use the free “G-CNMI ETA” program. This application is only available online; paper applications are not accepted. If traveling to Guam with a valid U.S. visa or ESTA, you do not need to apply. Note that “G-CNMI ETA” is not a visa and does not legally replace a U.S. visa if a visa is required. Furthermore, even if the “G-CNMI ETA” is approved, entry into Guam is not guaranteed.

 

Link To Apply for “Guam-CNMI ETA”

 

Overview of the “G-CNMI ETA”

• Application Deadline: It is recommended to apply after booking your trip and no later than 7 days before boarding the aircraft, with a minimum of 5 days before travel.
• Validity: The authorization is valid for 2 years or until the passport expiration date, whichever comes first. Multiple entries are allowed without reapplying during this period (Note 2).
• Stay Duration: You can stay for up to 45 days per visit under the G-CNMI ETA. No specific requirements or waiting period applies between visits.
• Airlines: Commercial airlines must be part of the Guam-Northern Mariana Islands Visa Waiver Program. United Airlines and Japan Airlines are currently members (as of October 2024). For other airlines, refer to the list of program member airlines. If using a non-member airline or ship, you will need a U.S. visa or ESTA.

 

Note 1: Participating Countries in the Guam-Northern Mariana Islands Visa Waiver Program (as of October 2024, 12 countries): Australia, Brunei, Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, Nauru, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, South Korea, Singapore, Taiwan (only for direct flights from Taiwan to Guam), United Kingdom

Note 2: A new application is required if:

• A new passport is issued
• Your name (first and/or last) changes
• Gender changes
• Nationality changes
• Other conditions change (e.g., if convicted of a crime involving moral turpitude or infected with a contagious disease, you may need a visa to enter Guam or the Northern Mariana Islands).

 

[FAQs] Frequently Asked Questions about “G-CNMI ETA”

Q: How much does it cost to apply? A: There is no cost. You will need your passport information for the application, so have it ready.

Q: Do I need a printed copy of my G-CNMI ETA for entry into Guam? A: It’s not required to present a copy at immigration since officials can access the information electronically. However, we recommend having a printed copy for your records.

Q: What if I plan to travel to Guam after November 30, 2024, without a U.S. visa, ESTA, or G-CNMI ETA? Is there a solution for entry on the day? A: Without one of these, you will be denied entry and returned to your home country or a third country on your return ticket. Traditional paper applications will not be available.

Q: What if an applicant under the Guam-Northern Mariana Islands Visa Waiver Program is denied entry? A: If denied entry under the Guam-Northern Mariana Islands Visa Waiver Program, the traveler will be returned to their home country or a third country on their return ticket.

Q: What should dual citizens or those with multiple passports do? A: U.S. citizens who are also citizens of a G-CNMI participating country should not apply for a G-CNMI ETA. U.S. citizens must travel using their U.S. passport.

Q: Do I need to apply for a G-CNMI ETA on behalf of my child? A: Yes, regardless of accompaniment, minors from G-CNMI visa waiver countries must have their own G-CNMI ETA approval before traveling to the U.S. (Guam or Northern Mariana Islands).