Visa Waiver Program and Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program

The Visa Waiver Program (VWP under INA § 217) and the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program operate in Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI)

Program Details

• Nonimmigrant visitors may be able to apply for admission to Guam or the CNMI under one or both programs, depending on the nonimmigrant visitors’ nationality or citizenship.
• The permitted length of stay will depend on whether the nonimmigrant visitors are admitted under the VWP (INA § 217) or under the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program (INA § 212(l)).
  • VWP:  admission not to exceed 90 days
  • Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program:  admission not to exceed 45 days
• Nonimmigrant visitors who are not eligible for admission under either the VWP or the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program must possess a valid passport and obtain a visa from a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
• Nonimmigrant visitors to the CNMI no longer will be able to enter using the CNMI Visitor Entry Permit.

Comparison of Programs – Key Differences

Visa Waiver Program (INA § 217):

• 36 participating countries/geographic areas
• Admission not to exceed 90 days
• Admission to the United States, including the 50 states
• ESTA electronic travel authorization required
• Requires completed and signed Form I-94W

Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program (INA § 212(l)):

• 12 participating countries/geographic areas
• Admission not to exceed 45 days
• Admission only to Guam and/or the CNMI
• No electronic travel authorization currently required
• Requires completed and signed Form I-736
• Requires a completed Form I-94