Palau's Unique 'No Entry' Rule: Sign Environmental Pledge on Passport or Be Denied

• Palau requires tourists to sign a 'Palau Pledge' directly on their passport upon arrival, an affidavit promising environmental and cultural respect.
• Failure to sign the pledge, which commits visitors to protect Palau's delicate ecosystem, can result in denied entry.
• The initiative, the world's first mandatory agreement of its kind, aims to combat environmental damage caused by rising tourism and promote 'Mindful Travel'.
• Tourists become 'Part-Time Guardians' of Palau's blue seas, coral reefs, and marine life, ensuring preservation for future generations.
• Indian citizens enjoy easy entry with an online/on-arrival permit but must pay a 'Sustainable Development Fee' (SDF) for conservation efforts.

Why It Matters: Palau mandates a passport pledge for tourists, promoting responsible travel and environmental conservation.