Palau’s President Surangel Whipps Jr. is reportedly considering a draft agreement with the United States that would allow Palau to accept third‑country nationals (TCNs) currently residing in the US.
The proposal remains in its early stages and would be entirely discretionary under Palau’s jurisdiction.
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“All actions would be consistent with our constitution and laws,” Mr Whipps said in a letter to the council.
“The United States strongly supports this proposal and has asked us to consider it.”
Palau, an island country located about 2,200 kilometres north of Australia, is a key US partner through the Compact of Free Association(COFA).
It is one of three Pacific nations with a COFA deal, receiving billions in US funding in return for allowing American military access to its territory.
However, the plan has sparked concern, with fears Palau’s small population of 20,000 may struggle to cope with an influx of arrivals.
Under current regulations, almost all visitors, excluding Bangladeshi and Myanmar nationals, can obtain a Palauan visa on arrival, and must sign an environmental pledge upon entry.
Introducing TCNs under US visas would need new legal frameworks, and may alter this established policy.
If enacted, the deal could enhance Palau’s strategic alliance with the US, providing opportunities for skilled migration and economic opportunities.
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