Marianas Tourism Advancement Act of 2026

This bill significantly revises the process for suspending countries from the Guam and Northern Mariana Islands Visa Waiver Program. The Secretary of Homeland Security may suspend a country only upon a written determination of specific issues, such as an unacceptable rate of unlawful presence, unlawful entry into the U.S., or a substantial threat to welfare or security. Before any suspension, the Secretary must consult with relevant federal and local officials, consider less drastic measures like bonding requirements, and conduct an economic impact assessment on Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. Congress must also receive 60 days' notice, including the determination, consultation summary, and economic assessment, though emergency suspensions are permitted for imminent threats. All suspensions must be reviewed periodically to ensure their continued necessity.

Furthermore, the legislation mandates the inclusion of several specific countries into the visa waiver program. These countries are India, the Republic of the Philippines, the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, the Kingdom of Thailand, the Republic of Indonesia, and Mongolia. The Secretary of Homeland Security must include these nations unless it is determined that their inclusion would meet the established criteria for suspension, and is required to issue regulations to facilitate their eligibility.