As of May 5, 2004, Citizens of the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) need only a valid RMI passport and valid admission documentation as proof of authorization to work in the United States.  This represents a departure from previous requirements set by the U.S.  

The RMI, along with the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) attained independence from the United States in 1986 pursuant to the Compact of Free Association (CFA).  The Republic of Palau also gained independence under a similar compact.  These three island nations are referred to as the “Freely Associated States” (FAS).  Under the compacts, the citizens of all three island nations could enter the U.S. with a passport or birth certificate.  Upon entrance, the FAS citizen had to apply for an EAD by submitting a Form I-765 Application for Employment Authorization.

The requirements for employment authorization have now changed for citizens of the RMI.  Presently, a valid RMI passport is required for entrance to the U.S.  The only additional document required for employment authorization is the unexpired I-94 issued at the port of entry.  These two documents are evidence of both identity and employment eligibility for I-9 purposes and should be entered under Section 2 of List A documents.  An EAD is no longer necessary but still may serve as valid work authorization. 

Requirements for citizens of FSM and Palau have not changed.  While Congress has authorized the same changes for the FSM as those that the FMI citizens now enjoy, additional diplomatic agreement is necessary before such changes go into effect for FSM citizens.  Such an agreement is expected sometime later this year.  For the citizens of Palau, no such changes have been negotiated or agreed upon by Congress at this time.