Washington, D.C: The Embassy of Palau has issued an urgent Notice Alert Bulletin for all Palauan citizens residing in the United States, reminding them to ensure their immigration documents are up to date to avoid potential legal complications. The advisory, dated January 13, 2025, emphasizes the importance of compliance with U.S. immigration laws under the Compact of Free Association (COFA) agreement.
The embassy highlighted key areas of concern, including COFA status verification, document renewal, legal compliance, and travel requirements. Palauan citizens, who are permitted to live, work, and study in the U.S. without a visa, are urged to carry proof of their legal status at all times. This includes a valid Palauan passport and an I-94 Arrival/Departure Record confirming lawful admission under the COFA agreement.
The embassy also reminded citizens to stay informed about their rights and responsibilities under U.S. immigration laws. This includes promptly reporting any changes in address or employment to the appropriate authorities. Additionally, those planning to travel outside the U.S. are advised to verify that their documents are valid for re-entry under COFA.
“It is your responsibility to maintain compliance with U.S. immigration laws to safeguard your legal residency and opportunities in the United States,” wrote Ambassador Hersey Kyota in the notice. “We encourage you to act promptly if you need to update or verify your documentation.”
Palauan citizens in need of guidance or support regarding their immigration status are encouraged to contact the Embassy of Palau in Washington, D.C., or the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for records such as the I-94 form and other immigration-related concerns.
The embassy’s proactive approach underscores the importance of maintaining proper documentation to prevent any disruptions in legal status, travel, or employment for Palauan citizens in the U.S.
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