By Sam Barron | Wednesday, December 24, 2025
Palau, an island nation in the Pacific, has agreed to accept up to 75 “third country nationals” from the U.S., according to the country’s president.
Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr. stated that the migrants cannot be returned to their home nations.
The agreement with the Trump administration will deliver $7.5 million and other aid to Palau.
Whipps’ office said the arrangement will help address local labor shortages in needed occupations.
Whipps noted that the migrants being sent to Palau have never been charged with a crime.
The Trump administration has been actively working to deport illegal immigrants elsewhere, with Department of Homeland Security attorneys recently moving to close nearly 5,000 asylum cases by requesting courts to terminate proceedings so applicants would pursue alternative protections.
Agreements similar to this one have already been reached with countries like Honduras and Uganda.
Initially hesitant due to concerns about the country lacking a refugee policy or resettlement program, Palau’s leadership has now agreed to the deal.
The agreement will assist Palau in meeting public service and infrastructure needs, including enhancing healthcare, security, pension systems, and disaster resilience.
“Palau and the United States also reaffirmed a shared commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific that protects both nations’ prosperity and security,” Whipps’ office stated in a recent declaration.
The U.S. pledged $26 million to help Palau prevent the collapse of its civil service pension system, while also committing to build a new national hospital.
This planned hospital will serve veterans, U.S. military personnel, visitors, and citizens from Palau and the Federated States of Micronesia, which Whipps referred to as another demonstration of their relationship.
The Palauan president indicated that U.S. support will aid in cracking down on organized crime and strengthening customs and police forces.
Additionally, the United States reiterated its commitment to improving Palau’s capacity for disaster preparedness and response, with further initiatives currently under discussion between the governments.
Prospective arrivals will undergo screening before admission, and Palau retains the right to refuse any individual.
