Guam (US Territory) Citizenship & Second Passport Guide
🛂 Passport Rank: #6
✈️ Visa-Free Countries: 186
💰 Tax System: varies
🗺️ Pathways: 1
Overview
Guam is an unincorporated territory of the United States in the Pacific, meaning individuals born there are US citizens by birth and hold a US passport. While residents cannot vote in US federal elections, they benefit from US citizenship and a unique territorial tax system. Guam is strategically located in the Pacific and has a significant US military presence.
Citizenship Pathways
US Citizenship via Guam (Birthright)
Cost: No additional cost (US citizens)
Timeline: 0.0 years
Presence Required: Bona fide residence
Guam is a US territory in the Pacific — residents are US citizens. Guam offers a strategic Pacific location, US legal system, and access to US military bases. Like Puerto Rico, it has some local tax advantages.
Step-by-Step Process
Citizenship by Birth
Step 1: Birth in Guam: Be born in Guam on or after December 24, 1952.
— At birth — N/A
Step 2: Obtain US Passport: Apply for a US passport through standard procedures.
— Varies (weeks to months) — Passport application fees
Pros & Cons
Advantages
US citizenship by birth for those born on Guam
US passport with extensive visa-free travel (186 countries)
Access to US federal programmes and protections
Tropical island lifestyle and culture
Strategic location in the Pacific
No US federal income tax filing requirement for Guam residents
Challenges
Residents cannot vote in US federal elections
Limited political representation in the US Congress
Local tax system can be complex
Geographic isolation from the mainland US
Economy heavily reliant on tourism and military spending
Requirements
Birth in Guam — Individuals born in Guam on or after December 24, 1952, are US citizens at birth.
Tax System
System: varies
Guam has its own territorial income tax system, largely mirroring the US Internal Revenue Code, but bona fide residents generally file only with Guam. Resident individuals are taxed on worldwide income with progressive rates up to 50%, and a 4% gross receipts tax applies to businesses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are people born in Guam US citizens?
Yes, individuals born in Guam on or after December 24, 1952, are US citizens by birth.
Do Guam residents pay US federal income tax?
Bona fide residents of Guam generally file their income tax returns with the Government of Guam, not the US federal government, under a mirror tax system.
Can Guam residents vote in US presidential elections?
Residents of Guam cannot vote in US federal elections, including for president, unless they establish residency in one of the 50 US states or Washington, D.C.