FSM Embassy in DC

05/14/2026

05/14/2026

Restored Non-Domiciled CDL Access for FAS Citizens in the United States

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PALIKIR, Pohnpei, May 14, 2026 -- The Office of the President of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) welcomes a significant development regarding access to non-domiciled Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDLs) and Commercial Learner’s Permits (CLPs) for FSM citizens residing in the United States.

In February 2026, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) issued a rule limiting access to non-domiciled CDLs to certain visa holders and noting that FAS citizen eligibility would be addressed through an exemption process. This had an effect of restricting access to CDLs and CLPs by FSM citizens in the United States.

Restoring access has been a key priority of President Simina and his Administration. The President recently held bilateral meetings on the topic with U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau and U.S. Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum, as well as correspondence with U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy.

Today, the FMCSA has issued a national exemption allowing FSM and other FAS citizens who are lawfully present in the United States to obtain non-domiciled CDLs and CLPs without the need for a visa. This action establishes a pathway for FAS citizen access to non-domiciled CDLs in states that issue non-domiciled CDLs and comply with FMCSA regulations.

The FSM Government recognizes and appreciates the collaborative efforts that led to this outcome. The FSM Embassy in Washington, D.C., the U.S. Department of State, the U.S. Department of Interior, all played central roles in advancing this matter. Their sustained engagement, together with support from key members of the U.S. Congress, ensured that the rights of FSM citizens under the Compact of Free Association were appropriately recognized and addressed.

The exemption, effective May 14, 2026, will remain in place through May 14, 2031, and allows eligible FSM citizens to obtain and renew non-domiciled CDLs, subject to annual renewal requirements. To obtain the non-domiciled CDL, applicants must present a valid, unexpired FSM passport and Form I‑94 documentation.

Further information about this exemption will be published in a fact sheet by the FSM Embassy.

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05/10/2026

The Embassy extends its warmest greetings to all on the occasion of FSM Constitution Day, a meaningful celebration of our Constitution and the enduring principles of sovereignty, democracy, and unity that continue to guide and strengthen our nation.

In observance of this holiday, the Embassy will be closed tomorrow and will resume normal operations on Tuesday, May 12, 2026.

As always, continue to utilize the contact methods provided below, and we will respond to your inquiries on the next working day.

-Phone: Call us at (202) 223-4383, and leave a message with a clear contact number for us to return your call.

-Email: Reach us at [email protected]

-Facebook Messenger: Connect with us via our official page. (https://www.facebook.com/fsmembassy.fm)

-Website Contact Form: Leave a message through the contact link on our website. (https://fsmembassy.fm/contact-us/)

We wish everyone a joyful and respectful observance of FSM Constitution Day!

05/10/2026

Across our islands, mothers carry traditions, hold families together through difficult times, and teach us what strength looks like in everyday life.

On this Mother’s Day, the Office of the President honors the women whose care shapes not only our homes, but our nation.

May today bring every mother a moment of rest, laughter, and the reminder that their love is seen, remembered, and deeply valued throughout our islands.

KAMORALE & Happy Mother’s Day!

05/07/2026

Embassy of the Federated States of Micronesia Hosts Close Up Program Participants

Washington, D.C., May 06, 2026 — The Embassy was honored to continue its longstanding tradition of hosting a luncheon for participants of the Close Up Program from the FSM, accompanied by their respective chaperones.

This year’s delegation included twelve students representing each of the four FSM states, along with four chaperones. The group was warmly received by Ambassador Jackson T. Soram and members of the Embassy staff.

In his welcoming remarks, Ambassador Soram expressed his sincere appreciation to the Close Up Foundation for continuing this valued tradition and for facilitating the visit. He also commended the students for their selection to participate in the program, recognizing their hard work, commitment, and academic achievement.

Ambassador Soram provided an overview of the Embassy’s mission, highlighting its important role in representing the Government of the Federated States of Micronesia in Washington, D.C., and in maintaining strong and mutually beneficial relations with the United States.

The program included an engaging question-and-answer session between Embassy staff and the students. Discussions covered a range of topics, including the recently signed Compact agreement, consular services and related matters, as well as the day-to-day functions and responsibilities of the Embassy.

In keeping with tradition, the Embassy also hosted a luncheon for the group, providing an opportunity for all in attendance to engage in informal dialogue and enjoy one another’s company.