NOTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS

The Northern Marianas consist of a chain of 14 islands nearly 55 miles in length. Volcanic in origin, they host a variety of scenery including beautiful bays, spectacular cliffs, caves and mountains. Because of their location they played a significant part in World War II, and the many shipwrecks around the coast bear witness to this. These, the numerous coral reefs and the clear water make them particularly good for diving.

CLIMATE IN NOTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS

Tropical climate, tempered by trade winds. The rainy season is July to November.

Required Clothing

Lightweight cottons and linens, with light rainwear advisable all year.

VISA INFORMATION FOR TOURISTS

Passports
Passports valid for at least 60 days after date of entry are required by all nationals of countries except the following:
(a) Nationals of the USA who may use proof of citizenship such as passport, birth certificate or naturalization papers.

Visas
Not required by nationals of countries except the following:
Cyprus, Czech Republic, Estonia, Greece, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland and Slovak Republic who do require a visa as they are not current participants in the US Visa Waiver Program.

Note: All nationals of countries are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements.

Visa Note
(a) Nationals of Australia, Canada, Ireland and the UK are exempt from Visitor Entry Permits into the Northern Mariana Islands, although this may be counteracted by individual circumstances.

(b) Visitors must prove available funds to the equivalent of US$100 for each day of intended stay.

All Visitor Entry Permit applications submitted one week or less prior to arrival will be processed at an emergency administrative fee of US$100.

Types of Visa and Cost:
Decided according to individual cases.

Validity

Visas are generally required for tourist stays of more than 30 days. Stays may be extended by an additional 60 days whilst in the Northern Mariana Islands.

TRAVEL ATTRACTIONS AND THINGS TO DO

Watersports
These are popular, with many suitable diving and snorkeling locations; windsurfing is popular on Saipan. Parasailing is available. Local fishing competitions are held in several places. Those not wishing to dive to see wrecks and underwater scenery can go on submarine cruises.

Other
San Jose has a bowling alley and there are 9- and 18-hole golf courses. Good hiking is available on all three main islands. Hunting, bird- and volcano-watching may also be possible.