Marshall Islands (MH)
A remote Micronesian atoll nation using USD, with English as an official language, a Compact of Free Association relationship with the United States, high imported-goods costs, limited medical capacity, and relocation risks centred on immigration status, housing supply, land tenure, health evacuation, and outer-island logistics.
Capital: Majuro
Region: Oceania
Language: Marshallese
Currency: USD ($)
Cost of living: Moderate (index 58)
Emergency: 911 / 625-8666
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Become a Supporter Time: 4–12 weeks from application to approval · Cost: $200–$500 in government fees (employer typically covers); legal advice: $500–$2,000 if required
Deadline: Must be approved before your first day of work
Risk if missed: Illegal working — removal from RMI and penalties for the employer.
Where to go: RMI Immigration Division, Majuro — employer HR typically initiates the sponsor application; contact an immigration attorney if your situation is complex or the timeline is tight
Documents needed:
- ✓ Signed employment contract
- ✓ Employer sponsorship letter
- ✓ Police clearance (apostilled)
- ✓ Degree/qualification certificates
Tip: RMI work permits are employer-specific — you cannot switch employers without a new permit and cannot work during the transition. Ensure your permit lists the correct job title, work location (Majuro, Kwajalein, or outer island), and all dependants by name. Set a renewal reminder 90 days before expiry — late renewal can cause gaps in legal status. Ask your employer to confirm who is responsible for the renewal process and costs.
Local institution: RMI Immigration Division (Republic of the Marshall Islands Immigration Division)
Time: 1–2 hours to get quotes and purchase · Cost: $300–$1,000+/year depending on vehicle value and coverage level
Deadline: Before driving any vehicle in RMI
Risk if missed: Personal liability after an accident — repair costs and medical bills fall entirely on you.
Where to go: Moylan's Insurance or other Majuro insurance providers — ask employer HR or expat community for recommendations; purchase before driving any vehicle
Documents needed:
- ✓ Driving licence
- ✓ Vehicle registration papers
- ✓ Insurance policy
Tip: Flooding is a real risk for parked vehicles in RMI — check whether your policy covers flood damage and salt-air corrosion. Take dated photos of the vehicle before insuring it to document its pre-insurance condition. Make sure your spouse or any regular driver is named on the policy. Ask Moylan's or your insurer about any discount for paying annually versus monthly.
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 2–4 hours for initial registration; 1–2 days with professional advisor · Cost: Professional tax advisor: $500–$2,000 for setup; self-registration may be possible depending on employment type
Deadline: Before your first income in RMI
Risk if missed: Tax penalties, double-tax exposure, and significant compliance stress.
Where to go: Division of Revenue and Taxation (DRT), downtown Majuro main government building; MISSA for social security registration; employer payroll department for PAYE setup; hire a local accountant for first-time filers
Documents needed:
- ✓ Employment contract or invoices
- ✓ Bank records
- ✓ Home-country tax residency status documents
Tip: Employees have wage tax (8%/12%) and MISSA withheld by employer — verify correct registration via your first payslip. Self-employed and freelancers must register with DRT and MISSA independently and file quarterly. Business owners: gross revenue tax (GRT) applies to local sales. US citizens: FBAR (FinCEN 114) reporting is required for RMI bank accounts exceeding the $10,000 annual threshold — this is filed with the IRS separately from RMI local tax obligations.
Local institution: Division of Revenue and Taxation (DRT) / MISSA (RMI Division of Revenue and Taxation / Marshall Islands Social Security Administration)
Time: 1–6 weeks for renewal depending on home country · Cost: Passport renewal fee varies by nationality ($50–$200 USD equivalent)
Deadline: 18 months before expiry — or before departure from home country
Risk if missed: Missed visa renewal or inability to travel for emergencies.
Where to go: Your home-country passport agency — renew before arriving in RMI; Majuro has no embassy for most nationalities; US Embassy Majuro can assist US citizens for emergency travel documents
Documents needed:
- ✓ Current passport
- ✓ Passport photos
- ✓ Renewal application form
Tip: Renew your passport at home before arriving in RMI. Courier services to/from Majuro are slow and unreliable — allow 2–3 extra weeks on top of your home-country processing time. Some employers include emergency document assistance in relocation packages — negotiate this before signing. Check whether your work permit lists your passport number; if so, a new passport may require a permit amendment.
Time: 1–2 hours to arrange forwarding systems · Cost: US PO Box via employer or forwarder: $200–$500/year; air freight from Hawaii to Majuro: $1–$4/lb; sea container: $2,000–$5,000
Deadline: Before departure to RMI — arrange while still at home
Risk if missed: Lost mail and high storage fees from uncollected freight shipments.
Where to go: Employer HR for US mainland mailing address setup; Majuro Post Office; confirm FedEx/DHL acceptance before booking — direct to Majuro is limited and unreliable
Documents needed:
- ✓ US mainland or Hawaii mailing address from employer
- ✓ Shipping inventory list
Tip: Many RMI employers provide a US mainland or Hawaii mailing address for staff — use this for all mail. Direct shipping to Majuro can be unreliable with very limited carrier options. For personal goods: air freight is fast but expensive ($1–$4/lb); sea freight from Hawaii is cheaper but takes 2–6 weeks. Pack your first sea freight shipment with personal care items, vitamins, specialty foods, and replacement electronics you cannot easily buy in Majuro.
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 4–8 weeks to complete all exit processes properly · Cost: Repatriation flights: $1,000–$5,000 per person; shipping container: $2,000–$5,000; MISSA statement: free
Deadline: 90 days before planned departure date
Risk if missed: Lost deposit refunds, unresolved tax accounts, or missing MISSA records.
Where to go: RMI Immigration for permit cancellation formalities; MISSA for final contribution statement; Division of Revenue and Taxation for tax clearance letter; landlord for deposit return process; employer HR for final payroll reconciliation
Documents needed:
- ✓ Work permit
- ✓ Lease with notice clause
- ✓ Payslips and MISSA statement
- ✓ Tax clearance request
Tip: Start the exit process 90 days before departure. Checklist: give lease notice per contract terms, request final MISSA contribution statement, obtain DRT tax clearance letter, close or transfer local bank account, arrange international shipping or sale of household goods, confirm final employer payroll and any outstanding reimbursements, and collect children's official school leaving certificates. Cancel NTA internet and mobile contracts — both require in-person cancellation and will continue billing if not cancelled properly.
Time: 1–3 business days from document submission · Cost: Free to open; monthly fees may apply depending on account type
Deadline: Within first month of arrival
Risk if missed: Payroll and rent transfer delays; reliance on cash only.
Where to go: Bank of Marshall Islands (BOMI), Delap, Majuro — main branch with ATMs; Bank of Guam, Majuro branch on Delap Road
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ Work permit or immigration status document
- ✓ Employer letter
- ✓ Lease or local address proof
- ✓ Home-country bank statements (3 months)
Tip: Bank of Marshall Islands (BOMI) is the easiest bank for new residents and has the only reliable ATM network in Majuro. Bring your employment letter, permit, passport, and local address on your first visit. Internet banking works but is slower than US mainland — test it before relying on it for time-sensitive rent payments. Bank of Guam is an alternative with US banking infrastructure if your employer has an existing relationship.
Local institution: Bank of Marshall Islands (BOMI) / Bank of Guam
Time: 30 minutes at ATM or bank · Cost: USD $200–$500 recommended buffer at all times
Deadline: Always — ongoing
Risk if missed: Unable to pay basic costs during power outages or connectivity failures.
Where to go: BOMI ATMs in Majuro (Delap, Rita, Uliga areas); Bank of Guam branch; replenish before every outer-island trip
Documents needed:
- ✓ USD cash in small denominations ($1, $5, $10, $20 notes)
Tip: Outer islands have no ATMs whatsoever — take everything you need for your entire stay plus two days buffer. Power outages can take card readers offline for hours or days in Majuro. Replenish your cash buffer after each outer-island trip or major storm. Small bills are essential: many vendors and taxi drivers cannot break $50 or $100 notes.
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 2–4 hours to compile your source-of-funds file · Cost: Free to compile; legal support for complex funds: $500–$2,000
Deadline: Before any transfer over $5,000 USD
Risk if missed: Frozen or delayed funds — correspondent bank compliance holds can take weeks to resolve.
Where to go: BOMI compliance department; Bank of Guam branch for wire transfers; keep source-of-funds file in your offline document vault and accessible quickly
Documents needed:
- ✓ Employment contract or invoices
- ✓ Payslips or income statements
- ✓ Tax returns
- ✓ Sale agreement if applicable
Tip: Large USD transfers to RMI banks (over $10,000) receive enhanced scrutiny under US correspondent banking requirements. Prepare a source-of-funds file for any transfer over $5,000: employment contract, payslips, sale agreement, or tax return demonstrating legitimate origin. BOMI may request this documentation retroactively — having it pre-prepared prevents frozen funds. Keep all transfer records for at least 5 years.
Time: 30–60 minutes at NTA office · Cost: $10–$30 for SIM and initial credit; data plans $20–$80/month
Deadline: First 48 hours of arrival
Risk if missed: Unable to coordinate daily life — housing, work, schools all rely on WhatsApp.
Where to go: NTA (National Telecommunications Authority) office, Uliga, Majuro — the only mobile network operator in RMI
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ Local Majuro address
Tip: NTA is the only mobile and internet provider in RMI — there is no competition or alternative network. Get your SIM on day one or two. WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger are the universal communication tools in RMI for coordinating with landlords, employers, taxi drivers, and schools. Signal is limited or absent on outer atolls — plan offline communication for field trips. International roaming is expensive; use Wi-Fi calling via WhatsApp where possible.
Local institution: NTA (National Telecommunications Authority) (National Telecommunications Authority — sole mobile and internet provider in RMI)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 1–2 days to fully test and configure backup systems · Cost: Home NTA internet: $80–$200/month; mobile hotspot data: $50–$150/month; VPN: $5–$15/month
Deadline: Before your first remote-work week
Risk if missed: Missed work deliverables and income risk from connectivity failures.
Where to go: NTA offices, Uliga, Majuro for home internet plans and mobile data packs; employer IT team for office network access as backup; test speeds at 8–10 AM Majuro time
Documents needed:
- ✓ Lease (for home internet setup)
- ✓ Employer IT policy
- ✓ Router and SIM card
Tip: NTA is the sole internet provider and residential speeds are significantly slower than US mainland — typical 5–25 Mbps, worse at peak hours (8–10 AM). For remote workers, have three connectivity layers: home NTA internet, NTA mobile hotspot, and employer office as final backup. Download large files overnight when speeds are best. Test video conferencing quality at your actual working hours before your first client call. Inform clients and employers that occasional connectivity issues are a known reality in RMI.
Local institution: NTA (National Telecommunications Authority)
Time: 2–3 hours to prepare kit per trip · Cost: $50–$200 for trip supplies; inter-atoll flight $100–$500 depending on destination
Deadline: Before every outer-island trip
Risk if missed: Stranded without essential supplies — no pharmacy, ATM, or reliable food source on outer atolls.
Where to go: Our Airline (formerly Air Marshall Islands) for inter-atoll flights — book early; field trip office for government workers; Majuro Hospital for any pre-travel health queries
Documents needed:
- ✓ Travel itinerary
- ✓ Full medical kit
- ✓ USD cash (all denominations)
- ✓ Satellite messenger or PLB if working alone
Tip: Outer atolls have no ATMs, no pharmacies, limited or no reliable water, and minimal food supply. Pack for your entire planned stay plus two days buffer — Our Airline cancellations and delays are frequent. Take: all medications, water purification tablets or filter, USD cash in small notes, first aid kit, waterproof document pouch, offline maps and contacts, and additional food. A personal locator beacon (PLB) is advisable for remote fieldwork.
Time: 2–3 hours to assemble and check; 30 minutes every 6 months to refresh · Cost: $100–$300 for a complete 7–14 day household kit
Deadline: Before wet season (August–November) and review every 6 months
Risk if missed: Unprepared for typhoon, king tide, extended drought, or multi-day power outage.
Where to go: Payless Supermarket and K&K Island Pride for supplies; review NDMO (RMI National Disaster Management Office) guidance for RMI-specific hazards
Documents needed:
- ✓ Emergency kit inventory checklist
Tip: RMI is acutely vulnerable to typhoons, king tides, droughts, and flooding of low-lying atoll land. Assemble your kit before wet season: 15+ litres of water per person, shelf-stable food, all medications, battery power banks, hand-crank radio, USD cash, and waterproof copies of key documents. Refresh every 6 months — rotate food and water to keep it current. Include insect repellent and mosquito nets for post-storm conditions when standing water breeds mosquitoes.
Time: 1–2 hours for orientation conversation; ongoing learning throughout your stay · Cost: Free
Deadline: First month of arrival — ongoing
Risk if missed: Damaged relationships with Marshallese community members that are very difficult to repair.
Where to go: Ask a Marshallese colleague for orientation; churches (UCC, Assembly of God, Catholic are the main denominations); community elders if your work touches land or outer-atoll communities
Documents needed:
- ✓ Local mentor contact or employer cultural liaison
Tip: All land in RMI is owned — and land ownership is deeply important to Marshallese identity and community. Always ask explicit permission before entering private land or beaches. Photography of people, especially children, requires clear consent. Sunday is a significant day of rest for most Marshallese families — plan accordingly. Dress modestly when visiting churches or community gatherings. Kemem (first-birthday) celebrations and other community events are important social opportunities — participating when invited builds genuine relationships.
Time: 1 hour to plan; ongoing replenishment as part of routine shopping · Cost: $100–$500 for initial 2–4 week pantry buffer
Deadline: Always — maintain as ongoing habit
Risk if missed: Expensive emergency shopping or genuine food shortages during supply disruptions.
Where to go: Payless Supermarket, Majuro (main grocery); K&K Island Pride; Formosa Supermarket; bulk freight orders via Honolulu freight service for high-volume staples
Documents needed:
- ✓ Pantry inventory list
Tip: Ship supply disruptions happen more often than newcomers expect in RMI — weather, logistics delays, and seasonal variation all cause stock shortages. Keep 2–4 weeks of household pantry staples. Baby formula, specialty dietary items, allergen-free foods, pet food, and prescription supplements should always be stocked at the maximum practical quantity. Price-watch at Payless — some basics are affordable; imported specialty items are very expensive.
Time: 2–3 hours to scan, organise, and set up · Cost: Free; optional encrypted USB drive: $20–$40
Deadline: Before departure from home country
Risk if missed: No access to critical documents during power outages, internet failures, or evacuation.
Where to go: Self-setup; cloud backup via Google Drive or iCloud; encrypted USB drive for physical offline copy; print emergency contacts sheet before any outer-island travel
Documents needed:
- ✓ Scanned copies of all key documents
- ✓ Printed emergency folder
- ✓ Encrypted USB or cloud storage
Tip: Power outages and internet failures are frequent in RMI — offline document access is not optional, it is essential. Save: permits, passports, insurance policy, lease, school records, MISSA card, employment contract, and emergency contacts. Keep one digital copy in cloud storage and one on an encrypted USB. Print a one-page emergency contacts sheet (insurer evacuation line, hospital, employer, embassy) and keep it in your wallet at all times.
Time: 1–2 hours to set up all tools · Cost: Free (Google Authenticator, Bitwarden); $30–$60/year for premium password manager; VPN: $5–$12/month
Deadline: Before your first online banking session in RMI
Risk if missed: Account takeover — recovering a compromised account from Majuro is extremely difficult.
Where to go: Self-setup on your own devices; use a reputable VPN for public Wi-Fi at NTA hotspots or hotels; download apps before leaving home for best download speeds
Documents needed:
- ✓ Password manager app
- ✓ Authenticator app (Google Authenticator or Authy)
Tip: Public Wi-Fi in Majuro (hotels, NTA hotspots) is shared and unencrypted — always use a VPN for any banking or work session. Enable two-factor authentication on all financial accounts, email, and work systems before you arrive. RMI has very limited cybercrime investigation capacity — there is no effective recourse after an account is compromised. Use a password manager and unique passwords for every service.
Time: 30 minutes to install and configure all alerts · Cost: Free (apps); battery-powered weather radio: $30–$60 recommended
Deadline: Before arrival — download on fast home Wi-Fi
Risk if missed: No warning before king tides, typhoons, or flight cancellations.
Where to go: Download before arrival: NOAA Weather App, NWS Pacific Basin Forecast, Our Airline app; US citizens: FEMA emergency alerts; save NDMO (RMI National Disaster Management Office) contact
Documents needed:
- ✓ Smartphone with storage for apps
- ✓ Airline booking reference numbers
Tip: King tides (most severe January–March) can flood roads and vehicles with little warning — NOAA alerts are essential. Tropical storm season peaks August–November. Our Airline (formerly Air Marshall Islands) flight changes and cancellations are very common — set email and SMS alerts for all bookings. Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank weather radio for extended power outage emergencies. Download everything before arriving — app downloads in RMI are slow.
Time: 2–4 weeks of research and school visits · Cost: Free to research; public school fees minimal; private/mission school fees $1,000–$6,000+/year
Deadline: 2–4 months before intended school start date
Risk if missed: No suitable school place or housing too far from the right school.
Where to go: RMI Public School System (PSS) Office, Majuro; Marshall Islands Christian School; Assumption School (Catholic, Majuro); College of the Marshall Islands (CMI) for post-secondary; contact each school directly
Documents needed:
- ✓ Child's school records
- ✓ Birth certificate
- ✓ Vaccination record
- ✓ Budget for school fees
Tip: Start school research 3–4 months before your planned start date — waitlists exist at better schools. Public schools in RMI are free but resource-limited. Mission schools (Christian, Catholic) offer more structured environments and are the preference of most expat families. College of the Marshall Islands (CMI) is the only local higher education institution. Ask schools whether their curriculum is recognised if your child will return to your home education system later.
Time: 2–4 weeks to collect all records before departure · Cost: $20–$100 for certified copies from current school
Deadline: Before departure from home country
Risk if missed: Placement delay or inability to access appropriate year group.
Where to go: Current school administration for certified copies; bring originals and apostilled copies if possible; deliver to enrolled school before start date
Documents needed:
- ✓ School transcripts (certified)
- ✓ IEP or 504 plan if applicable
- ✓ Full vaccination record
- ✓ Teacher recommendations
- ✓ Custody documents if applicable
Tip: Bring multiple certified copies of all school records — originals can get lost in transit or damaged in RMI's humidity. Include: transcripts, immunisation records, any special education plans, standardised test scores, and teacher recommendations. Schools in RMI have very limited capacity for special educational needs — be fully transparent with the school administration about your child's requirements well in advance of the start date.
Time: 30 minutes per month · Cost: Free
Deadline: Each pay cycle — ongoing
Risk if missed: Incorrect tax records or missing MISSA benefit credits that are difficult to recover after departure.
Where to go: Employer payroll office or HR for payslip queries; MISSA offices, Majuro, for statement requests and contribution verification
Documents needed:
- ✓ Monthly payslips
- ✓ MISSA registration number
Tip: RMI wage tax rates (2026): 8% on the first $10,400/year and 12% on income above that threshold. MISSA contributions: 8% employee + 8% employer for retirement; 3.5% employee + 3.5% employer for the Health Fund. Cross-check your payslip against these rates every month. Employer MISSA reporting errors are common — request a MISSA statement annually to confirm all contributions are correctly recorded.
Local institution: MISSA (Marshall Islands Social Security Administration) (Marshall Islands Social Security Administration)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 3–5 hours to review independently; 1–2 days with legal or HR advisor · Cost: Legal review: $500–$1,500; professional HR consultant: $200–$500
Deadline: Before signing the employment contract
Risk if missed: Large unexpected costs after arrival — housing shortfall, uncovered school fees, or unplanned repatriation expense.
Where to go: Employment lawyer in Majuro for review; your home-country professional body or union for international posting guidance; employer HR for official package documentation
Documents needed:
- ✓ Job offer letter
- ✓ Full benefit schedule
- ✓ Immigration permit plan from employer
Tip: Key RMI contract points to negotiate in writing: housing allowance (or company housing with generator), utility cap or responsibility, annual economy/business class home flights, school fees (capped or uncapped per child), full-family health insurance and evacuation, tax gross-up, 90-day termination grace period to close down, and employer-paid repatriation flights. Verbal promises from employers in RMI are unenforceable — every benefit must be in the written contract.
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 3–4 hours to draft your plan; review annually · Cost: Free to plan; emergency fund target: 3–6 months of total family expenses offshore
Deadline: Before arrival and review annually
Risk if missed: Rushed departure and financial loss if the job ends unexpectedly.
Where to go: RMI Immigration for permit departure requirements; employer HR for termination clause review; MISSA for contribution statement; your bank for account closure procedures
Documents needed:
- ✓ Employment contract
- ✓ Lease with early exit clause
- ✓ Work permit conditions
- ✓ Emergency fund access details
Tip: In RMI, your work permit, housing, children's school enrolment, and immigration status are typically all tied to your employer. If your job ends suddenly, you may have as little as 30 days to settle and depart. Know in advance: your exact legal days-to-depart after permit cancellation, who funds repatriation flights under your contract, and how mid-year school exits are handled with your fees. Maintain your emergency fund offshore — a local bank account alone is not accessible fast enough in a crisis.
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 1–6 months depending on the profession and completeness of documents · Cost: $200–$1,500 in application fees; document legalisation: $100–$500
Deadline: Before accepting any regulated professional role — confirm timeline before agreeing a start date
Risk if missed: Unable to legally perform your job — potentially voids the employment contract.
Where to go: Ministry of Health for healthcare workers; Ministry of Education for teachers; Maritime Authority for maritime professionals; Ministry of Public Works for engineers; MISSA/employer for auditors and accountants
Documents needed:
- ✓ Home-country degree certificate (apostilled)
- ✓ Current professional licence from home country
- ✓ Good-standing letter from home regulator
- ✓ Employer offer letter
Tip: Your home-country licence is the required starting point but you need formal recognition from the relevant RMI ministry before practising. Allow a minimum of 2–3 months for recognition processing — many applicants underestimate this timeline and create conflict with their employer start date. Request a written timeline estimate from the ministry before agreeing a specific contract start date. Bring extra certified document copies — ministries sometimes require multiple sets.
Time: 2–4 weeks to gather documents and complete applications · Cost: $100–$500 per dependant for immigration fees; document legalisation additional
Deadline: Before any dependant travels to RMI
Risk if missed: Dependant status problem — family member may be unable to enter or stay legally.
Where to go: RMI Immigration Division, Majuro — bring main worker permit and dependant documents; employer HR may handle sponsorship paperwork for listed dependants
Documents needed:
- ✓ Marriage certificate (apostilled)
- ✓ Birth certificates for children (apostilled)
- ✓ Dependant insurance documents
- ✓ School records
Tip: Verify with RMI Immigration whether your work permit automatically covers dependants or whether separate applications are required — the answer varies by permit type and employer. Keep dependant permit renewal dates synchronised with your own — a permit renewal that inadvertently omits a dependant creates serious legal complications. Marriage and birth certificates must be apostilled or officially notarised.
Local institution: RMI Immigration Division
Time: 2–4 weeks to find and vet suitable options · Cost: $200–$800/month for private caregiver; community arrangements may be informal and lower cost
Deadline: Before your work start date
Risk if missed: Work disruption when primary childcare fails — as it inevitably does at some point.
Where to go: Ask employer HR and expat community for caregiver recommendations; no formal registered childcare directory in RMI; community-based childcare through churches is common in Majuro
Documents needed:
- ✓ References for any caregiver
- ✓ Emergency contact list
Tip: Most expat families in Majuro use private caregivers — often Marshallese women or Filipino expat caregivers. Get at least two references and meet candidates at home before committing. Build a backup plan: a trusted neighbour, school contact, or co-worker who can cover childcare at short notice. School holidays, flight disruptions, illness, and family emergencies will all test your childcare arrangements at some point.
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 2–4 weeks from birth to complete all registrations · Cost: RMI birth certificate: $50–$200; home-country citizenship registration: $50–$300; maternity insurance coverage: confirm pre-birth
Deadline: Plan from early pregnancy; register birth within 60–90 days (home-country deadline varies)
Risk if missed: Child citizenship complications or delays in obtaining home-country passport.
Where to go: Majuro Hospital maternity department for local delivery planning; RMI Vital Statistics office for birth certificate; US Embassy Majuro for US citizen birth abroad registration; home-country embassy in Honolulu for most other nationalities
Documents needed:
- ✓ Medical records
- ✓ Marriage certificate
- ✓ Both parents' passports
- ✓ Insurance maternity policy details
Tip: Confirm with your insurer before delivery that maternity complications requiring specialist care are covered for evacuation to Honolulu — not all policies include this. A child born in RMI does not automatically receive RMI citizenship — check the current RMI nationality law. Register the birth with your home-country embassy promptly (typically 60–90 day deadline) to secure home-country citizenship and passport. US Embassy Majuro can process Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) for US citizens.
Time: 1–2 hours to build a realistic initial budget · Cost: Free to plan; real grocery and goods costs 30–80% above US mainland
Deadline: Before accepting any employment offer
Risk if missed: Salary shortfall — effective pay is much lower than the headline figure once import costs are absorbed.
Where to go: Payless Supermarket, Majuro (main grocery store); K&K Island Pride; Formosa Supermarket; bulk orders via freight from Honolulu for regular high-volume items
Documents needed:
- ✓ Budget spreadsheet
Tip: Payless Supermarket in Majuro is the main food store — some basic items are reasonably priced, others extremely expensive. Electronics and appliances can be $500–$2,000 more than US retail pricing. Vehicle parts may be only available to order from Hawaii with 2–4 week delivery. Get a copy of the actual grocery price list from an expat in Majuro before accepting a job offer — it is a reality check most people need.
Time: 1–2 hours to compare options and set up · Cost: Wise: 0.5–1.5% of transfer amount; bank wire: $20–$50 flat plus correspondent fees of $10–$30
Deadline: Before your first international transfer
Risk if missed: High fees and unpredictable delays on every monthly transfer.
Where to go: Wise (wise.com) or Revolut for international transfers; BOMI wire transfer counter in Majuro; confirm your receiving account is a USD account
Documents needed:
- ✓ Bank account details (BOMI or Bank of Guam)
- ✓ Transfer records for KYC purposes
Tip: RMI uses USD — no exchange rate risk for USD earners. For non-USD income, Wise typically has the lowest fees for international transfers to USD accounts. Correspondent bank fees on US dollar wires can be unpredictable — request a "SHA" (shared) fee arrangement and keep $30–$50 buffer for unexpected correspondent charges. Save all transfer records for MISSA and tax documentation purposes.
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 1–2 hours to calculate and set up automatic transfers · Cost: Private school fees: $1,000–$6,000+/year; annual family flights: $2,000–$8,000; insurance deductibles: $500–$5,000 per incident
Deadline: Before school year starts — set up immediately on arrival
Risk if missed: Missed school fee deadlines, debt, or having to withdraw a child mid-year.
Where to go: Offshore or home-country savings account — separate sub-account dedicated to these predictable large costs; check employer contract for school fee allowance coverage and any caps
Documents needed:
- ✓ School fee invoice or estimate
- ✓ Annual flight cost estimate
- ✓ Insurance deductible details
Tip: The three predictable large expenses for families in RMI are school fees, annual flights home, and medical evacuation deductibles. Calculate the combined annual total and divide by 12 to determine your monthly savings target. Set this money aside in a dedicated account before it gets absorbed into daily spending. If your employer provides a school fee allowance, confirm the exact cap per child and what happens when fees exceed it — surprises here are common.
Time: 2–4 hours to research and purchase · Cost: $1,500–$4,000+/year individual; $4,000–$10,000+/year family; evacuation coverage is non-negotiable
Deadline: Before departure from home country
Risk if missed: Medical evacuation bills exceed $50,000–$150,000 USD uninsured.
Where to go: International health insurance brokers online; employer HR for group policy; confirm Cigna Global, Allianz Care, AXA, or Pacific Cross cover RMI and evacuation to approved destinations
Documents needed:
- ✓ Insurance policy document
- ✓ Insurer emergency card
- ✓ Medical history summary
Tip: Medical evacuation from Majuro to Honolulu or Manila can cost USD $50,000–$150,000 without insurance. Save your insurer's 24/7 emergency evacuation line in your phone on day one — you must pre-authorise evacuation or the insurer may not cover it. Confirm the policy covers Majuro Hospital and approved evacuation destinations. Employer-provided policies may have gaps for dependants or pre-existing conditions — read the exclusions before signing.
Time: 2–4 weeks to collect all records and stock medicines before departure · Cost: Free to $100 for certified medical record copies; medicines: variable
Deadline: Before departure from home country
Risk if missed: Treatment delays or medicine shortages — alternatives may not exist in Majuro.
Where to go: Your home-country GP or specialist before departure; Majuro Hospital Emergency Dept, Delap (+692-625-3399); private physicians and mission clinics for non-emergency care
Documents needed:
- ✓ Prescriptions for all medications
- ✓ 3–6 month medicine supply
- ✓ Vaccination record
- ✓ Medical history summary (1 page)
Tip: Bring a minimum 3-month supply of any prescription medication, ideally 6 months. Write your blood type, allergies, and emergency contacts on a card in your wallet. Pharmacies in Majuro stock only basic medicines — any specialist drug must be ordered from Honolulu (2–4 weeks delivery). Vaccination records may be required for permit renewals or school enrolment.
Time: 1 hour orientation drive · Cost: Free to map; consultation costs $20–$100+ per visit
Deadline: First week of arrival
Risk if missed: Wasted time navigating during a medical emergency.
Where to go: Majuro Hospital, Delap (main public hospital, 24/7 emergency, +692-625-3399); Ebeye Hospital for Kwajalein Atoll workers; employer clinic if provided
Documents needed:
- ✓ Insurance card with emergency number
- ✓ Local phone with offline contacts
- ✓ Employer emergency contact list
Tip: Drive or walk to Majuro Hospital in Delap in your first week so you know the route cold. Save the hospital number (+692-625-3399) and your insurer's 24/7 evacuation line offline in your phone. Ask your employer about any on-site clinic, company doctor, or preferred hospital arrangement — some large employers (US Army contractors on Kwajalein, UN agencies) have superior medical facilities. After-hours emergency: go directly to Majuro Hospital Emergency Dept.
Time: 2 hours to set up and test your water system · Cost: $30–$150 for water filter; bottled water $1–$3/litre locally
Deadline: First week of arrival
Risk if missed: Gastroenteritis and dehydration — common in visitors adjusting to local water.
Where to go: Payless Supermarket, Majuro for bottled water, filters, and ORS; K&K Island Pride; ask landlord about cistern/tank condition and last cleaning date
Documents needed:
- ✓ Water filter
- ✓ Storage containers (5–20 litre)
- ✓ Oral rehydration salts (ORS)
Tip: Majuro's primary drinking water source is rainwater collected in household cisterns. In drought periods, cisterns run dry and water quality degrades rapidly. Always boil or filter cistern water unless you have a recently serviced filter system. Keep a 3-day supply of bottled water as backup. Ask your landlord the date of the last cistern cleaning — a poorly maintained cistern is a significant health risk.
Time: 4–8 weeks evaluation period · Cost: $50–$150/night for guesthouses; $800–$2,500/month for furnished short-stay rentals
Deadline: Arrival month — before signing any annual lease
Risk if missed: Locked into unsuitable or problem housing for 12 months.
Where to go: RRE Motel or Marshall Islands Resort (Majuro); employer temporary quarters; short-stay furnished rentals via employer relocation contact or expat community referrals
Documents needed:
- ✓ Short-stay booking confirmation
- ✓ Budget for temporary accommodation
Tip: Spend your first 4–6 weeks in temporary accommodation before signing any long-term lease. Test: real flooding risk in wet season, road noise and light, actual internet speed at peak hours, proximity to workplace, generator coverage during outages, and water tank reliability. The cheapest permanent rental is almost never the cheapest option over 12 months if it has hidden problems. Most expats who skip this step regret it.
Time: 1–2 hours on move-in day · Cost: Free
Deadline: Move-in day — same day
Risk if missed: No evidence in deposit dispute — landlord's version wins by default.
Where to go: At your rental property on move-in day; email photos to landlord same day and keep cloud backup
Documents needed:
- ✓ Signed lease
- ✓ Move-in inventory checklist
Tip: Photograph every room: walls, ceilings, floors, windows, screens, appliances, water tanks, AC units, generator condition, and both meter readings (electricity and water). Send all photos to the landlord by WhatsApp or email the same day with timestamp. In RMI, most landlord-tenant deposit disputes are resolved by whoever has better documentation. A timestamped photo set is your strongest protection.
Time: 1–3 business days to set up all services · Cost: Electricity: $80–$400/month depending on AC use; internet: $80–$200/month via NTA; water often included in rent
Deadline: First week of arrival
Risk if missed: Power, water, or internet disruption with no plan to resolve it.
Where to go: Marshalls Energy Company (MEC) for electricity — downtown Majuro; NTA (National Telecommunications Authority) for internet — Uliga, Majuro; clarify with landlord which utilities are included
Documents needed:
- ✓ Signed lease
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ Local phone number
Tip: Electricity in RMI is expensive — air conditioning is the major driver of cost. Confirm generator or inverter responsibility with your landlord in writing before signing. Internet via NTA can slow significantly at peak hours — test speeds at 8–10 AM local time before committing to a full month's payment. Get all utility responsibilities (who pays, who calls for repairs) documented in writing in your lease.
Local institution: MEC (Marshalls Energy Company) / NTA (Marshalls Energy Company / National Telecommunications Authority)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 3–5 hours to review independently; 1–2 days with a lawyer · Cost: Legal review: $300–$800 — invest in this; it can prevent thousands in deposit disputes
Deadline: Before signing any lease
Risk if missed: Deposit loss, unsafe housing, or locked into a lease you legally cannot exit early.
Where to go: Attorney with local real estate experience in Majuro; employer legal team for company-arranged housing; expat community for referrals to property lawyers
Documents needed:
- ✓ Draft lease
- ✓ Move-in inventory checklist
- ✓ Employer housing policy if applicable
Tip: RMI leases must clearly specify: deposit amount and return conditions, who pays for generator fuel and maintenance, AC servicing frequency, early exit clause linked to employer permit cancellation, flood damage responsibility, and water tank maintenance. Never sign a lease without confirming the landlord has the legal right to rent the property — land ownership in RMI is complex and disputes between landowners and tenants are not uncommon.
Time: 30 minutes online research · Cost: Free
Deadline: Before booking flights
Risk if missed: Denied boarding or refused entry at Majuro International Airport.
Where to go: RMI Immigration Division, Majuro; verify at rmiimmigration.org before booking any flights
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ Onward ticket
- ✓ Accommodation address
- ✓ Proof of funds
Tip: US passport holders enter visa-free and may stay up to 30 days as visitors without a visa under the Compact of Free Association. Most other nationalities also enter visa-free for short stays. Always confirm with the airline and RMI Immigration before booking — requirements do change. Book refundable tickets until your entry category is fully confirmed in writing.
Local institution: RMI Immigration Division (Republic of the Marshall Islands Immigration Division)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 3–5 hours for professional consultation and written advice · Cost: $500–$2,000 for combined immigration and tax legal advice
Deadline: Before arrival if planning to work remotely
Risk if missed: Unexpected immigration or tax exposure — potentially retroactive.
Where to go: Immigration attorney with Pacific/RMI experience; cross-border tax advisor; your employer's legal team if applicable — seek written advice, not informal opinions
Documents needed:
- ✓ Remote employment letter
- ✓ Client contracts
- ✓ Tax residency history documentation
Tip: There is no formal digital nomad route in RMI. Staying beyond 30 days as a visitor while working remotely may breach visitor status conditions. US citizens in RMI should be aware that the Compact of Free Association has specific provisions — but these do not create a right to work remotely. Get written legal advice before committing to more than 30 days of remote work in RMI. The cost of legal advice is far lower than the cost of an immigration or tax problem.
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 2–3 hours to value contents and purchase policy · Cost: $300–$800/year for contents cover; shipping replacement costs can be $5,000–$20,000+
Deadline: At or before move-in
Risk if missed: Unrecoverable property loss from storm, flood, or theft with no recourse.
Where to go: Moylan's Insurance or other Majuro insurance providers; international contents insurers; confirm exclusions for mould, flooding, and salt corrosion before committing
Documents needed:
- ✓ Photographic inventory of high-value items
- ✓ Receipts for expensive goods
- ✓ Policy document
Tip: Replacing electronics or appliances in RMI from overseas is expensive (import premium) and slow (2–4 weeks sea freight from Hawaii). Before purchasing contents insurance, confirm coverage for: storm damage, flooding, mould (frequently excluded), salt-air corrosion (frequently excluded), and theft. Create a photographic inventory of all high-value items on arrival day and update it after each significant purchase. Submit the photo inventory to your insurer to anchor the policy value.
Time: 1–2 weeks of daily 20-minute study sessions for basic phrases · Cost: Free (no Duolingo Marshallese course exists; use YouTube and phrase guides)
Deadline: Before arrival or during first month
Risk if missed: Missed integration opportunities and slower relationship-building with Marshallese neighbours and colleagues.
Where to go: Self-study via YouTube or phrase books; College of the Marshall Islands community resources; ask a Marshallese colleague for pronunciation guidance in your first week
Documents needed:
- ✓ Marshallese phrase list or guide
Tip: High-value Marshallese phrases: Iokwe (ee-OHK-way) = "Hello / Love / Peace"; Kommol tata = "Thank you very much"; Yokwe yuk = "Love to you"; Enañin = "Excuse me"; Ñe = "Yes". English is an official language and widely spoken in Majuro, but making the effort with Marshallese — even just a greeting — is genuinely appreciated and opens doors socially and professionally.
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 1–2 days for a structured orientation; ongoing relationship-building throughout your assignment · Cost: Cultural orientation facilitator via NGO: $500–$2,000; some employers include in relocation package
Deadline: Before any fieldwork or community engagement
Risk if missed: Community harm, project failure, or expulsion from the community or atoll.
Where to go: College of the Marshall Islands (CMI) for academic cultural resources; employer-arranged community liaison; Pacific Community (SPC) resources for health and community workers; request introduction to a Marshallese cultural guide through employer
Documents needed:
- ✓ Work plan
- ✓ Local partner or employer liaison contact
Tip: RMI's nuclear legacy (Bikini and Enewetak atolls) means any nuclear-related research or community engagement faces uniquely sensitive cultural and political dimensions. Failure to obtain proper community consent has caused international research projects to be cancelled mid-execution. Work with a Marshallese cultural liaison from the very beginning of any community project — not as an afterthought. The College of the Marshall Islands can advise on appropriate community engagement protocols.
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 1–2 hours to research and make initial contact · Cost: Initial consultation: $150–$300; ongoing per-matter billing varies by complexity
Deadline: Within first 60 days of arrival
Risk if missed: Slow, expensive emergency legal scramble during a dispute or permit crisis.
Where to go: Law firms in Majuro — ask your employer, embassy, or expat community for specific referrals; the RMI Bar Association can provide a list of admitted attorneys; save contact offline
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ Copies of key contracts and lease
Tip: Identify a lawyer in Majuro before you need one — finding counsel in a crisis is slower and more expensive. Priority areas for expats: immigration and permit disputes, landlord-tenant conflicts, employment termination, and land matters (which have unique complexity in RMI). Many lawyers in Majuro handle small, varied practices — test responsiveness with a simple query before a crisis. Get both email and phone contact and confirm they respond within 24 hours.
Local institution: RMI Bar Association / Law offices, Majuro
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 2–4 hours per will; coordinate home-country will separately · Cost: RMI will: $500–$1,500; home-country will: varies by jurisdiction
Deadline: Within first 6 months of arrival; review after any major life event
Risk if missed: Estate delays, family stress, and legal uncertainty if the worst happens abroad.
Where to go: Majuro attorney for RMI-specific will; home-country solicitor or notary for home-country will — coordinate the two documents to avoid conflict
Documents needed:
- ✓ Full asset list (RMI and home country)
- ✓ Family documents
- ✓ Insurance policy beneficiary details
Tip: A will written in your home country may not automatically be valid in RMI — and vice versa. If you own assets in RMI (vehicle, household contents) or have MISSA entitlements, an RMI-specific will is advisable. Ensure the two wills reference each other and do not inadvertently revoke each other. Also designate: emergency guardianship for children, digital account access instructions, and who manages insurance claims if you are incapacitated. Review after marriage, birth, or major asset change.
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 2–6 months to obtain all required approvals depending on project scope · Cost: $500–$3,000 for legal and permit costs; project budget dependent
Deadline: Before any fieldwork, data collection, or community engagement begins
Risk if missed: Project shutdown, reputational harm, or expulsion from RMI.
Where to go: RMI Ministry of Internal Affairs for community-level permissions; Ministry of Education for school-based research; Ministry of Health for medical research; Iroij (chiefs) and landowner groups for atoll-level projects; RMI EPA for environmental research
Documents needed:
- ✓ Detailed project proposal
- ✓ Community consent forms
- ✓ Partner organisation letter
Tip: Nuclear-related research (Bikini Atoll, Enewetak, nuclear testing legacy) faces the most stringent and politically sensitive review process in RMI — allow 6+ months. Any research on traditional land tenure, cultural practices, or traditional ecological knowledge requires direct engagement with Iroij (chiefs) and specific landowner groups, not just a ministry approval letter. File all community consent documentation meticulously — past projects have been cancelled due to inadequate consent records discovered years after starting.
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 2–6 weeks for basic registration; longer if foreign investment approval is needed · Cost: $200–$1,000 for licence fees; $500–$2,000 for legal assistance; foreign business approval: additional cost and time
Deadline: Before any local sale, consulting, or business activity
Risk if missed: Fines, business closure, and risk to your immigration permit.
Where to go: Registrar of Corporations and Business Licenses, Ministry of Finance, Majuro; consult a local attorney for foreign ownership requirements; MISSA for employer registration if hiring Marshallese staff
Documents needed:
- ✓ Business plan
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ Work permit allowing business activity
- ✓ Lease or office address
Tip: Foreign-owned businesses in RMI may require Foreign Investment Board approval before licensing — this can add months and legal costs. Some activities require a Marshallese partner or majority local ownership. Verify your work permit explicitly permits the business activities you plan — selling locally or hiring may breach a permit issued for employment only. Consult a local attorney before spending on premises or equipment. Business licences must be renewed annually.
Local institution: Registrar of Corporations and Business Licenses, Ministry of Finance
Time: 1–2 hours research on arrival · Cost: Vet consultation: $40–$120; emergency evacuation to Honolulu: $2,000–$5,000+
Deadline: First week of arrival
Risk if missed: Pet welfare emergency with no available local treatment.
Where to go: Majuro Veterinary Clinic (limited services — basic vaccinations and wound care); ask expat community for current vet contact; serious health problems may require Honolulu evacuation
Documents needed:
- ✓ Pet vaccination records
- ✓ Prescription medications for the pet
- ✓ Pet insurance documents if applicable
Tip: Majuro has very limited veterinary services — basic vaccinations, minor wound care, and common parasite treatment only. Stock a 3–6 month supply of flea/tick treatment, heartworm prevention, and any prescription medications before arriving. Specialist treatment requires evacuation to Honolulu — factor this into your decision to bring pets. Include your pet in your household emergency plan: a typhoon or evacuation can separate pets from owners unexpectedly.
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 2–4 months of preparation before travel — do not leave this late · Cost: $500–$2,000 for health certificates, vaccinations, crate, and airline cargo fees; quarantine costs if applicable
Deadline: 3–4 months before travel — start immediately
Risk if missed: Denied boarding, pet quarantine, or inability to bring the pet at all.
Where to go: RMI Ministry of Resources and Development for import permit; USDA/APHIS-accredited vet for health certificate (US); equivalent authority for other nationalities; United Airlines cargo office (primary carrier to Majuro)
Documents needed:
- ✓ Microchip record
- ✓ Valid rabies vaccination certificate
- ✓ Accredited vet health certificate
- ✓ RMI import permit
- ✓ Airline cargo acceptance confirmation
Tip: RMI has strict biosecurity requirements — contact the Ministry of Resources and Development at least 3–4 months before travel. Confirm every requirement: microchip, rabies vaccination within the valid window, health certificate from an approved accredited vet, and import permit. United Airlines is the primary and often only viable carrier to Majuro — check the cargo pet acceptance policy for each specific flight route, not just the general airline policy. Verify acceptance before purchasing any non-refundable ticket.
Time: 20 minutes online · Cost: Free
Deadline: First week of arrival
Risk if missed: Delayed government assistance during typhoons, medical emergencies, or evacuations.
Where to go: Your home-country embassy registration portal online — US citizens: step.state.gov; UK citizens: gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice; US Embassy is physically present in Majuro at Mejen Weto, Long Island
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ Local Majuro address
- ✓ Emergency contact details
Tip: The US Embassy is the only major Western embassy physically located in Majuro. For UK, Australian, Canadian, and most EU nationals, your nearest embassy is in Honolulu, Hawaii — save its emergency number offline. Register online and bookmark your home government's travel advisory for RMI. Update your registration if you change address or add dependants.
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 6–12 weeks to collect fully apostilled documents from home country · Cost: $20–$100 per document for apostille/notarisation; $50–$200 per document for certified translation if required
Deadline: 8–12 weeks before departure — start immediately after accepting a job offer
Risk if missed: Work permit, school enrolment, or licence application delayed months.
Where to go: Home-country apostille authority (FCDO for UK; Secretary of State for US; equivalent per country); certified translators for non-English documents; keep originals in a waterproof wallet in RMI
Documents needed:
- ✓ Police clearance certificate
- ✓ Birth and marriage certificates
- ✓ Degree certificates
- ✓ Academic transcripts
- ✓ Medical records
Tip: Police clearances typically have a 3–6 month validity period from issue — time them carefully relative to your departure date. Order 3 certified copies of each document: one for your file, one for the authority, one as a spare. Store originals separately from copies in RMI in case of theft or flooding. Start the apostille process immediately after accepting a job offer — 12 weeks is not excessive for complex document chains.
Time: 30 minutes to request; allow 1–2 weeks for response · Cost: Free
Deadline: Annually and at least 3–6 months before departure from RMI
Risk if missed: Missing benefit credits that cannot be corrected after your employer has closed out your records.
Where to go: MISSA (Marshall Islands Social Security Administration) offices, downtown Majuro — bring MISSA number and photo ID
Documents needed:
- ✓ MISSA registration number
- ✓ Payslips for the period being checked
- ✓ Passport or photo ID
Tip: Request your MISSA contribution statement at least once a year — employer under-reporting and classification errors are not uncommon. Both retirement (8% employee + 8% employer) and Health Fund (3.5% + 3.5%) contributions must be listed correctly. Request the statement 3–6 months before leaving RMI so there is time to dispute and correct any errors while your employer is still in RMI and contactable.
Local institution: MISSA (Marshall Islands Social Security Administration) (Marshall Islands Social Security Administration)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 2–3 hours to set up calendar and tracking system; 1–2 hours per quarter to maintain · Cost: Tax software: free to $100/year; cross-border tax advisor: $500–$2,000/year for complex situations
Deadline: Start of each tax year — set reminders immediately on arrival
Risk if missed: Late filing penalties, missed deductions, or FBAR penalties (up to $10,000+ per missed account for US citizens).
Where to go: Your home-country tax authority (IRS for US citizens, HMRC for UK, CRA for Canada, ATO for Australia); cross-border tax specialist with Pacific region experience for complex situations
Documents needed:
- ✓ Travel log (days in each country)
- ✓ List of all foreign bank accounts
- ✓ Payslips and employer benefit statements
Tip: US citizens must file US taxes regardless of where they live — the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) and Foreign Tax Credit reduce but do not always eliminate US tax obligations. UK citizens: tax residency rules are complex after departing the UK for RMI — get specific HMRC advice before departure. Track every day in every country in a simple spreadsheet. Set calendar reminders 60 days before every home-country filing deadline — you cannot file from an outer atoll.
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 2–4 hours per quarter for filing and reconciliation · Cost: Accountant: $500–$2,000/year; gross revenue tax liability: 3–8% of gross revenue depending on business type
Deadline: Quarterly or monthly as applicable — file before each deadline from day one
Risk if missed: Business fines and risk to your immigration permit.
Where to go: Division of Revenue and Taxation (DRT), Majuro — main government building for registration and filing; MISSA for employer social security obligations if hiring; hire a local accountant for first-time filers
Documents needed:
- ✓ Business licence
- ✓ Sales invoices
- ✓ Payroll records if hiring
- ✓ Bank statements
Tip: RMI businesses pay gross revenue tax (GRT) on local sales — rates vary by business type (typically 3–8%). If you hire Marshallese employees, you must deduct their wage tax and MISSA contributions and remit them to DRT and MISSA monthly. Business licences must be renewed annually. Consult a local accountant before your first quarterly filing — the system has nuances that are not obvious from reading the tax law. Penalties for late filing accumulate quickly.
Local institution: Division of Revenue and Taxation (DRT)
Time: 2–4 weeks of testing before deciding · Cost: Taxi: $2–$5 per trip within Majuro; used car: $3,000–$12,000; fuel approximately $6/gallon (2026)
Deadline: First month — decide before buying
Risk if missed: Overpaying for an unsuitable vehicle or expensive daily taxi dependency.
Where to go: Car dealers along the main Delap-Uliga-Djarrit road, Majuro; taxis are roadside hail only — no apps; ask employer or expat community for trusted mechanics and dealers
Documents needed:
- ✓ Budget
- ✓ Map of commute and key destinations
Tip: Majuro's main road is short — most destinations are within 15 minutes by taxi. Singles and couples in central Majuro often manage without a car for the first months. Families with school-age children or workers with irregular hours almost always need their own vehicle. Outer-atoll workers usually receive employer-provided vehicles. Test the taxi situation thoroughly for 2–4 weeks before buying — it can save thousands.
Time: 1 hour to check requirements; 1–4 weeks to obtain local licence if required · Cost: RMI driving licence: $5–$20; IDP from home country: $20–$40
Deadline: Before driving any vehicle in RMI
Risk if missed: Fine, insurance claim denial, or employment issue.
Where to go: RMI Transportation Authority / Ministry of Public Works, Majuro — for local licence conversion; bring home licence, IDP, and passport
Documents needed:
- ✓ Home-country driving licence
- ✓ International Driving Permit (IDP)
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ Vehicle insurance document
Tip: Most nationalities can drive on their home-country licence for an initial period — confirm the exact duration with the RMI Transportation Authority on arrival. An International Driving Permit (IDP) adds legal clarity. Converting to a local RMI licence typically requires your home licence, passport, and passing an eye test. Driving is on the RIGHT in RMI (same as the US). Never drive without vehicle insurance in place.
Local institution: RMI Transportation Authority
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 2–4 hours for a thorough inspection · Cost: Mechanic inspection: $80–$200; parts import to RMI if needed: 3–6 weeks plus $200–$500
Deadline: Before any payment is made
Risk if missed: Unsafe vehicle with expensive repair bills — parts may take weeks to arrive from Hawaii.
Where to go: Trusted local mechanics in the Delap-Uliga area, Majuro — ask employer or expat community for a specific recommendation; never buy from unfamiliar sellers without independent inspection
Documents needed:
- ✓ Seller ID
- ✓ Vehicle title/registration
- ✓ Bill of sale
Tip: Salt air and flooding cause rapid corrosion of brake lines, electrical wiring, and undercarriage components in RMI. Inspect specifically: rust on brake lines and undercarriage, flood line marks in the engine bay, AC performance (essential in tropical heat), tyre condition, battery health, and electrical connections. Confirm parts availability for the specific make/model before buying — obscure parts can take 4–6 weeks to ship from Hawaii. A $150 mechanic inspection can save $3,000+ in repairs.
Time: 1 hour to research and plan · Cost: Free to research; cost is building your private savings buffer
Deadline: Before arrival — build savings before you leave home
Risk if missed: No financial support available during job loss, illness, or crisis.
Where to go: MISSA offices, Majuro for contribution queries; employer HR for policy details; home-country embassy website for information about benefits available while abroad
Documents needed:
- ✓ Budget and savings plan
- ✓ Insurance policy documents
Tip: RMI has no unemployment benefit for non-citizens, no housing assistance programme, and no general social welfare for foreign residents. MISSA retirement and Health Fund contributions build entitlements over years but provide very limited immediate cash support. Treat your private emergency fund as your primary welfare safety net. Many expats in RMI underestimate how exposed they are until a crisis arrives — plan accordingly from day one.
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 3–6 months to build the fund before arrival is ideal · Cost: Target: USD $15,000–$30,000+ for a family; $8,000–$15,000 for a single person — held offshore
Deadline: Before arrival — build at home before departing
Risk if missed: Unable to fund emergency exit, medical evacuation deductible, or recovery from income shock.
Where to go: Home-country savings or online brokerage account — keep outside RMI for instant global accessibility; Wise or Revolut as a bridge account for fast international access
Documents needed:
- ✓ Offshore savings or brokerage account details
- ✓ Budget estimate of 6 months total family expenses
Tip: Keep your emergency fund in a home-country or internationally accessible online account that you can access within 24 hours from anywhere. An RMI bank account alone is not sufficient — a natural disaster, medical emergency, or sudden job loss may require buying last-minute international flights while local banking is disrupted. USD $15,000–$30,000 is a realistic family emergency fund target given RMI's medical evacuation and repatriation costs.
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 2–4 hours to research and purchase · Cost: $500–$2,000+/year depending on occupation and coverage level
Deadline: Within first 90 days of arrival
Risk if missed: Income collapse after illness or injury — no state backup in RMI for foreign residents.
Where to go: International income protection insurers (Cigna Global, Pacific Cross, Allianz Care, AXA); specialist expat insurance brokers; employer group policy for any existing disability coverage
Documents needed:
- ✓ Policy quotes from international insurers
- ✓ Income proof
- ✓ Home-country sick pay entitlement details
Tip: MISSA disability benefits require qualifying contribution periods and are modest in payout — do not rely on them as meaningful income protection. Freelancers, contractors, and families with one income earner in RMI are particularly exposed because one illness or injury can quickly exhaust savings in a high-cost-of-living, high-evacuation-cost environment. Check whether any home-country employer sick pay or group insurance continues while you are overseas before purchasing additional cover.