Samoa Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Samoa (officially the Independent State of Samoa) welcomes international visitors with a relatively straightforward entry process. The country operates a generous visa policy, allowing citizens of most countries to enter visa-free for tourist purposes. Faleolo International Airport (APW) near Apia is the main point of entry for international travelers, though some visitors may also arrive by sea at Apia's port. The immigration process in Samoa is generally efficient and friendly, reflecting the warm Samoan hospitality. Travelers should be prepared to show proof of onward or return travel, sufficient funds for their stay, and accommodation details. Entry requirements focus on ensuring visitors have genuine tourist intentions and the means to support themselves during their visit. The standard tourist entry permit allows stays of up to 60 days, which can be extended if needed. Before traveling to Samoa, visitors should ensure their passport is valid for at least six months beyond their intended departure date. It's also important to check current health requirements, particularly vaccination requirements, as these can change. Samoa takes biosecurity seriously due to its island environment, so expect thorough customs and quarantine procedures, especially regarding food items and agricultural products.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Samoa offers visa-free entry to citizens of most countries for tourist visits. Visitors are typically granted an entry permit on arrival, valid for up to 60 days, provided they meet basic entry requirements including proof of onward travel and sufficient funds.

Visa-Free Entry

60 days (extendable up to 12 months)

Citizens of most countries can enter Samoa without a visa and receive an entry permit on arrival

Includes

United States United Kingdom Canada Australia New Zealand All European Union countries Japan South Korea Singapore Malaysia Fiji Tonga Most Pacific Island nations Most Commonwealth countries

Entry permit is granted free of charge on arrival. Visitors must have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay, confirmed onward/return ticket, and proof of sufficient funds (approximately WST $1,000 or equivalent per person). The initial 60-day permit can be extended at the Immigration Office in Apia.

Visa Required

Varies by visa type, typically up to 60 days for tourist visas

A small number of countries require advance visa application

How to Apply: Applications must be submitted to the nearest Samoan diplomatic mission or the Immigration Division in Apia prior to travel. Processing typically takes 2-4 weeks. Required documents include completed application form, passport photos, passport copy, proof of accommodation, return ticket, and financial evidence.

Countries not listed under visa-free entry should contact the Samoan Immigration Division or nearest Samoan embassy to confirm requirements. Business visas and work permits require separate applications with additional documentation.

Arrival Process

Upon arrival at Faleolo International Airport or Apia port, travelers will proceed through immigration and customs. The process is typically straightforward, though it may take longer during peak arrival times when multiple flights arrive simultaneously.

Health and Quarantine Check

First checkpoint where health declarations may be collected and any required health documents verified. Temperature checks may be conducted if health protocols are in effect.

Immigration Control

Present your passport, completed arrival card, and supporting documents (return ticket, accommodation details). Immigration officers will stamp your passport with an entry permit, typically valid for 60 days. Be prepared to answer questions about your visit.

Baggage Claim

Collect your checked luggage from the carousel. Report any missing or damaged baggage to airline staff immediately.

Customs and Biosecurity

Declare any items that exceed duty-free allowances or require declaration. All luggage may be screened or inspected. Biosecurity officers pay particular attention to food, plant, and animal products due to Samoa's strict quarantine regulations.

Exit to Arrivals Hall

Once cleared, proceed to the arrivals hall where you can arrange transportation, exchange currency, or meet your host/tour operator.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date from Samoa. Should have at least one blank page for entry stamp.

Arrival/Departure Card

Completed immigration card (usually distributed on the aircraft or available at immigration). Includes personal details, flight information, and accommodation address.

Proof of Onward/Return Travel

Confirmed airline ticket or itinerary showing departure from Samoa within the permitted stay period. This is strictly enforced.

Accommodation Details

Hotel reservation, resort booking confirmation, or letter of invitation from host in Samoa with contact details and address.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Evidence of financial means to support yourself during your stay (approximately WST $1,000 or equivalent per person). Bank statements, credit cards, or traveler's checks may be requested.

Health Documentation

Vaccination certificates if required, particularly yellow fever certificate if arriving from endemic areas. Check current requirements for other vaccinations.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Have all required documents easily accessible in your carry-on luggage, not packed in checked bags. Print copies of your return ticket and accommodation bookings.

Be honest and polite when answering immigration questions. Inconsistent answers or evasiveness may lead to additional questioning or entry denial.

Declare all food items, plants, and animal products on your customs form. Samoa has strict biosecurity laws, and undeclared items can result in fines or prosecution.

Keep some local currency (Samoan Tala) or US dollars for immediate expenses. Currency exchange is available at the airport but may have limited hours.

If extending your stay beyond 60 days, visit the Immigration Office in Apia well before your initial permit expires. Extensions are granted at the discretion of immigration officials.

Take note of your accommodation address and contact number before arrival, as you'll need to provide this information on your arrival card.

Customs & Duty-Free

Samoa Customs and the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries (Quarantine Division) work together to protect the country's biosecurity while facilitating legitimate travel. All arriving passengers must complete a customs declaration form and may be subject to baggage inspection. Samoa has strict quarantine regulations due to its vulnerable island ecosystem.

Alcohol

2.25 liters of spirits or wine, or 4.5 liters of beer

Only for persons 21 years of age and older. Alcohol in excess of this allowance is subject to duty.

Tobacco

200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250 grams of tobacco

Only for persons 21 years of age and older. Exceeding this allowance requires duty payment.

Currency

No limit on currency import/export

Amounts exceeding WST $20,000 (or foreign currency equivalent) must be declared on arrival and departure. Failure to declare may result in seizure.

Gifts/Goods

Personal effects and goods up to WST $1,000 value

Goods must be for personal use and not for commercial purposes. Items exceeding this value are subject to duty and taxes.

Perfume

50 grams of perfume or 250ml of eau de toilette

For personal use only.

Prohibited Items

Illegal drugs and narcotics - severe penalties including imprisonment
Firearms, ammunition, and weapons - unless prior authorization obtained from police
Pornographic materials - strictly prohibited
Counterfeit goods - including fake designer items
Fresh fruits and vegetables - biosecurity risk
Fresh or frozen meat and poultry products - except from approved countries with permits
Live animals and birds - without import permits and quarantine clearance
Plants, seeds, and soil - biosecurity risk without permits
Endangered species products - CITES restrictions apply
Explosives and fireworks - prohibited without special authorization

Restricted Items

Prescription medications - must be in original containers with prescriptions; bring only quantities needed for your stay
Processed/packaged food items - must be declared; may be inspected and confiscated if deemed a biosecurity risk
Honey and bee products - require import permits and inspection
Dairy products - restricted; most require permits
Fishing equipment - must be clean and declared; may be inspected for biosecurity compliance
Camping and hiking gear - must be clean and free from soil; subject to inspection
Pet food - must be commercially packaged and declared
Traditional medicines and herbal products - must be declared; may require inspection

Health Requirements

Samoa has specific health entry requirements designed to protect public health. Vaccination requirements may change based on global health situations and disease outbreaks, so always check current requirements before travel.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever - certificate required if arriving from or transiting through yellow fever endemic countries (valid 10 days after vaccination and for life). This includes most countries in Africa and South America.
Measles - Following the 2019 measles outbreak, Samoa may require proof of measles immunity (vaccination or antibody test) for travelers from countries with active outbreaks. Check current requirements before travel.

Recommended Vaccinations

Routine vaccinations - ensure up-to-date on routine vaccines including MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), DTP (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis), polio, and influenza
Hepatitis A - recommended for all travelers due to potential exposure through food or water
Hepatitis B - recommended for travelers who may have contact with blood or body fluids
Typhoid - recommended for travelers eating outside major hotels and resorts
COVID-19 - vaccination recommended; check current entry requirements regarding COVID-19

Health Insurance

While not mandatory for entry, comprehensive travel health insurance with medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended. Medical facilities in Samoa are limited, and serious conditions may require medical evacuation to New Zealand or Australia, which can be extremely expensive without insurance. Ensure your policy covers activities you plan to undertake (diving, water sports, etc.).

Current Health Requirements: Health entry requirements can change rapidly, particularly regarding COVID-19 and other infectious diseases. Check with the Samoa Ministry of Health and your country's travel health advisory at least 2-4 weeks before departure. Requirements may include pre-departure testing, vaccination certificates, health declarations, or quarantine measures. Visit the official Samoa government website or contact the Samoan embassy for the most current health requirements.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Embassy/Consulate

Contact your country's embassy or high commission in Samoa (most are located in Apia) or the nearest Samoan diplomatic mission in your country

Check your government's travel advisory website for Samoa-specific warnings and registration programs for citizens abroad

Immigration Division

Samoa Immigration Office, Level 3, ACC Building, Apia. Phone: +685 34332/34333. Email: immigration@samoaimmigration.gov.ws

For visa extensions, permit inquiries, and official immigration information. Office hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Emergency Services

Emergency number: 911 (Police, Fire, Ambulance)

Also: Police 995, Fire 994, Ambulance 996. National Hospital Apia: +685 21212

Customs and Quarantine

Ministry of Customs and Revenue: +685 68100. Quarantine Division: +685 22561

For questions about prohibited items, duty payments, and biosecurity requirements

Tourism Authority

Samoa Tourism Authority, Beach Road, Apia. Phone: +685 63500. Email: info@samoa.travel

For general travel information, accommodation assistance, and tourist inquiries

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children must have their own passport (included on parent's passport is not acceptable). Minors (under 18) traveling without both parents should carry a notarized letter of consent from the non-accompanying parent(s) authorizing travel, including contact details and a copy of the parent's ID. This may be requested at immigration. Children traveling alone or with adults who are not their legal guardians should have additional documentation including contact information for parents/guardians and proof of relationship or guardianship. Same entry requirements apply to children (proof of onward travel, etc.).

Traveling with Pets

Samoa has strict pet importation requirements. Dogs and cats require an import permit from the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, obtained well in advance (at least 60 days before travel). Pets must be microchipped, vaccinated against rabies (at least 30 days but not more than 12 months before arrival), and have a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 7 days of travel. Pets from certain countries must undergo quarantine (up to 30 days) at the owner's expense. Some breeds may be prohibited. Birds, reptiles, and other animals have additional restrictions and may not be permitted. Contact the Quarantine Division (+685 22561) early in your planning process. Pet importation is complex and expensive; many travelers choose not to bring pets.

Extended Stays

The initial tourist entry permit allows 60 days. Extensions can be requested at the Immigration Office in Apia before your current permit expires. Extensions are granted in increments (typically 30-60 days) up to a maximum of 12 months total. Each extension requires a fee (approximately WST $100-200), proof of sufficient funds, valid passport, and justification for extended stay. For stays beyond tourist purposes (work, business, residency), you must apply for appropriate permits or visas. Working on a tourist permit is illegal. Long-term residents must apply for residence permits through Immigration. Business activities require work permits obtained through sponsoring employers. Student visas are available for those enrolled in educational institutions. Overstaying your permit can result in fines, detention, deportation, and future entry bans.

Business Travelers

Business visitors conducting short-term business activities (meetings, conferences, negotiations) can usually enter on the standard tourist entry permit, but should clearly state business purpose to immigration. For work assignments, employment, or conducting business for profit in Samoa, a work permit is required before arrival. Work permits are employer-sponsored and require Ministry of Commerce approval. Processing takes several weeks to months. Business visitors should carry invitation letters from Samoan companies, conference registration, or other documentation supporting their business purpose.

Cruise Ship Passengers

Cruise passengers on shore excursions typically receive temporary landing permits valid for the duration of the ship's port call (usually 8-12 hours). Passengers must remain with approved tour groups or return to the ship by departure time. Standard entry requirements may be relaxed for cruise passengers who don't leave the port area, but passport is still required. Those wishing to stay in Samoa after the cruise departs must have met standard entry requirements (return ticket, accommodation, etc.) and should inform immigration upon arrival.