🇫🇲 Import Customs & Duties: Micronesia
Quick Facts
Duty-free threshold
$50
Packages under $50, duty free
VAT / Sales Tax
15%
No VAT or sales tax. Government revenue from import duties and Compact funding.
Clearance Time
5-14 days
typical processing
Duty Rates by Category
| Category | Duty Rate | HS Chapter |
|---|---|---|
| Electronics | 0-6% | 85 |
| Clothing | 4-6% | 61-62 |
| Footwear | 4-6% | 64 |
| Food & Beverages | 0-6% | 01-24 |
| Machinery | 0-4% | 84 |
| Cosmetics | 4-6% | 33 |
| Books | 0% | 49 |
| Toys & Games | 4-6% | 95 |
Rates shown are for standard goods. Exact rate depends on the HS code of your item.
Customs Clearance Process
FSM Division of Customs and Tax Administration. Each state (Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei, Kosrae) has its own customs office. Low tariff rates (0-6%). Compact of Free Association with US provides economic assistance. US dollar is currency.
What to Actually Expect
EXTREMELY REMOTE, 607 islands spread across the western Pacific. Only accessible by air (United Airlines island hopper) or infrequent cargo ships. Duties are low (0-6%) but logistics costs are enormous. No international courier services to most islands. USPS available to Pohnpei (capital). Cargo ships from Guam serve as main supply. Each state has different regulations. Infrastructure is very basic. Expect 4-8 weeks for deliveries. US dollar currency (no exchange risk). Climate change and rising seas are existential logistics threats.
Required Documents
Commercial Invoice
Item description, quantity, value, sender and receiver details
Packing List
Detailed description of contents in each package
Customs Declaration (CN22/CN23)
Required for postal shipments
Air Waybill (AWB)
Generated by the carrier when booking the shipment
Certificate of Origin
May be required for reduced duties (FTA/preferential rates)
Export/Import License
For restricted goods (electronics, medicines, chemicals)
Import License Requirements
Required for firearms, alcohol, tobacco, and some agricultural products. Quarantine inspection for all food and plant imports. Each state may have additional requirements.
Certificate of Origin
Standard certificate of origin. Limited trade agreements. Compact of Free Association with US provides some trade preferences.
Prohibited & Restricted Items
Prohibited
- xNarcotics and illegal drugs
- xExplosives and flammable materials
- xWeapons and ammunition
- xCounterfeit goods
- xCounterfeit currency and documents
Restricted (permit required)
- !Medicines and pharmaceuticals
- !Food and beverages
- !Plants and seeds
- !Electronics (lithium batteries)
- !Perfumes and cosmetics (volume limits)
Useful Links
Popular routes to Micronesia
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the duty-free threshold for Micronesia?
The duty-free (de minimis) threshold for imports into Micronesia is $50. Goods valued below this amount are exempt from customs duties.
What is the VAT rate on imports to Micronesia?
The VAT/tax rate on imports to Micronesia is 15%. VAT applies to: No VAT or sales tax. Government revenue from import duties and Compact funding.
How long does customs clearance take in Micronesia?
Typical customs clearance in Micronesia takes 5-14 days. Express shipments usually clear faster.
What documents are needed to import into Micronesia?
To import into Micronesia, you typically need: commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading/airway bill, and customs declaration. Some goods may require a certificate of origin or import license.
What items are prohibited from import into Micronesia?
Micronesia prohibits the import of narcotics, weapons, counterfeit goods, certain animal products, and hazardous materials. Restrictions may also apply to alcohol, tobacco, pharmaceuticals, and certain electronics.