The Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) is composed of over 600 islands and atolls spanning one million square miles of the western Pacific Ocean. The FSM isa federation of four semi-autonomous states (Chuuk, Kosrae, Pohnpei, and Yap), each of which retains considerable autonomy overdomestic affairs, including state civil and criminal justice systems.
The federal capital is located at Palikir, on the island of Pohnpei, close to Pohnpei's largest town, Kolonia. The FSM is a constitutional democracy. The United States extends security guarantees and economic assistance to the FSM under the Compact of Free Association. Under the Compact, FSM citizens may enter the U.S. to study and work without visas.
U.S.-MICRONESIA RELATIONS - Following World War II, the islands of what is now the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) became part of the United Nations Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands, administered by the United States. Micronesia became independent in 1986, when it entered into a Compact of Free Association with the United States. An Amended Compact entered into force in 2004. The basic relationship of free association continues indefinitely. The Governments of Micronesia and the United States maintain deep ties and a cooperative relationship. Reflecting a strong legacy of trusteeship cooperation, over 25 U.S. federal agencies operate programs in Micronesia. Under the Compact, the United States has full authority and responsibility for the defense and security of Micronesia.
This security relationship can be changed or terminated by mutual agreement. Also under the Compact, Micronesians can live, work, and study in the United States without a visa. Micronesians volunteer to serve in the U.S. Armed Forces at approximately double the per capita rate as Americans; they are also eligible for admission to U.S. Service Academies. Americans can live and work freely in Micronesia without the need for a visa.
Federated States of Micronesia Travel Guide
Top Destinations in Federated States of Micronesia
Kosrae, Federated States Of Micronesia
Kosrae is one of the four states of the Federated States of Micronesia.
Tafunsak, Federated States Of Micronesia
Tafunsak (formerly transliterated as Tahfuhnsahk) is the largest settlement on the island of Kosrae in the Federated States of Micronesia. Its population was 2,... more
Pohnpei, Federated States Of Micronesia
Pohnpei "upon (pohn) a stone altar (pei)" (formerly known as Ponape) is the name of an island of the Senyavin Islands which are part of the larger Caroline ... more
Kolonia, Federated States Of Micronesia
Kolonia is a city on the island of Pohnpei in the Federated States of Micronesia. The municipality of Kolonia has a population of around 6500 people, but it is ... more
