DHS Halts Visa-Free Entry For Chinese Travelers To Northern Mariana Islands
The Department of Homeland Security announced Monday, October 26, 2026, that it will suspend the Electronic Visa Waiver-Travel Authorization Program (EVS-TAP) for Chinese nationals traveling to the Northern Mariana Islands.[1]
The suspension takes effect at 1 p.m. Central on October 30, 2026, and will apply to new applicants and to previously approved travelers who have not yet entered.[1]
More than 3,000 Chinese nationals used the program in fiscal year 2025 to enter the Northern Mariana Islands without consular visas. DHS cited risks of birth tourism, espionage, illegal onward travel to Guam, and pressure on local medical resources as reasons for the suspension.[1]
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📌 Key Facts
- On October 26, 2026, DHS announced it will suspend the EVS-TAP visa-free travel program for Chinese nationals visiting the Northern Mariana Islands.
- The suspension takes effect at 2 p.m. EDT on October 30, 2026, and will apply to both new applicants and already approved travelers who have not yet entered.
- More than 3,000 Chinese nationals used the program in fiscal year 2025 to enter the Northern Mariana Islands without consular visas.
- DHS cited risks of birth tourism, espionage, and illegal onward travel to Guam, as well as strain on local medical resources, as reasons for the suspension.
- Chinese travelers already present in the territory under EVS-TAP may complete their current stays but must obtain visas for future visits unless otherwise exempt.
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October 27, 2026