Samoa

The Land of Harmony
and Heritage

Flag of Samoa

Samoa, a tropical island nation in the South Pacific, is celebrated for its lush landscapes, vibrant coral reefs, and rich Polynesian culture. The main islands, Upolu and Savai'i, offer stunning beaches, waterfalls, and traditional villages. Samoan culture, known as fa'a Samoa, emphasizes family, respect, and community, showcased in ceremonies, tattooing, dance, and storytelling.

The cuisine features dishes like palusami (taro leaves in coconut cream) and fresh seafood. Known for its warm hospitality and natural beauty, Samoa offers an authentic Polynesian experience with a strong connection to tradition and nature.

Travel Documents

Documents

Toll

Driving

Currency

Laws

Legal

Safety

Flights

Travel Documents

Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

  • Non-Samoan citizens: A valid passport is generally required for entry into Samoa.
  • Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay in Samoa.

Visa Requirements

  • Visa-exempt countries: Citizens from nations such as Australia, New Zealand, the US, UK, Canada, and EU countries can enter Samoa with a valid passport and stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa (visitor permit issued on arrival).
  • Visa-required countries: Travelers from nations not on the visa-exempt list must possess a valid passport and obtain a visa prior to entering Samoa.
  • Special Entry Provisions:
    • Holders of valid, multiple-entry visas from Australia, New Zealand, or the US (previously used in the issuing country) do not receive automatic exemptions but may use these to support visa applications.
    • No automatic entry provisions exist for Schengen or UK visa/residence permit holders unless specified by bilateral agreements.

ID Card Entry

  • No countries are permitted to enter Samoa using only a national ID card; a valid passport is mandatory for all.

Visa Types

  • Visitor Permit: Allows entry and stay for 90 days within 180 days. Issued on arrival for visa-exempt countries, single-entry.
  • Long-Term Visa: For stays longer than 90 days (e.g., work or residency). Valid for one year with a 90-day stay period, allowing application for a residence permit.

Important Links

Additional Considerations

  • Length of stay: Visa-free stays are typically limited to 90 days within a 180-day period.
  • Purpose of visit: Different rules apply for work, study, or long-term stays; a pre-arranged visa is required.
  • COVID-19 measures: Always check for current health-related entry requirements or restrictions at https://www.health.gov.ws/.
Toll

Driving in Samoa

Current Toll Roads

  • As of 2025, there are no toll roads in Samoa; roads are publicly funded and free to use.

Toll Rates and Payment

  • Not applicable; no tolls exist. For road updates, visit the Samoa Land Transport Authority: https://www.lta.gov.ws/.
  • Payment Methods: Not applicable.

Driving in Samoa

  • Drive on the left side of the road (switched from right in 2009).
  • Seat belts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants.
  • Speed limits:
    • Urban areas: 40 km/h
    • Rural roads: 56 km/h (35 mph)
    • Highways: 80 km/h (limited highways exist)
  • Road conditions vary; exercise caution on rural roads, which may be narrow, unpaved, or affected by weather.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your national driver’s license; short-term visitors can use a valid foreign license for up to 90 days with a temporary permit from the Land Transport Authority.

Important Considerations

  • Vignette System: Samoa has no vignette or toll system; check road conditions at https://www.lta.gov.ws/.
  • Road Safety: Driving standards are improving; remain vigilant for pedestrians, livestock, and wet conditions.
  • GPS and Maps: GPS is unreliable outside Apia; keep an updated physical map as a backup.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 999 for emergencies.

Useful Links

Samoa Currency

The official currency of Samoa is the Samoan Tālā (WST).

Key Information

  • Banknotes: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 WST
  • Coins: 10, 20, 50 sene; 1, 2 WST (100 sene = 1 tālā)
  • Symbol: $ (sometimes written as WS$ or T)

Currency Exchange

  • Exchange services available at banks (e.g., ANZ, BSP), airports (Faleolo International), and major hotels.
  • ATMs available in Apia for direct WST withdrawals; scarce in rural areas.

Payment Methods

  • Cash is preferred, especially in rural areas and small businesses.
  • Credit/debit cards accepted in Apia, hotels, and larger establishments.

Travel Tips

  • Inform your bank of travel plans.
  • Carry some cash for small purchases and rural areas.
  • Check for currency conversion fees when using cards.
  • For current exchange rates, visit the Central Bank of Samoa website: https://www.cbs.gov.ws/.
Laws

Legal Essentials for Traveling in Samoa

Understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit. Below are key legal considerations for travelers in Samoa, updated as of 2025.

Local Laws & Restrictions

  • Drugs: Strict penalties for possession or trafficking, including lengthy prison sentences. Even small quantities can lead to charges.
  • Alcohol & Smoking:
    • Public intoxication is frowned upon and may lead to fines.
    • Smoking banned in some public spaces (e.g., government buildings).
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Respect Samoan customs (e.g., dress modestly, remove shoes in homes, avoid Sundays for loud activities).
  • LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships are illegal; public displays of affection can lead to legal issues and social disapproval.
  • Photography: Restricted near government or military sites; ask permission for portraits of locals, especially in villages.

Duty-Free Limits

  • Alcohol: 1L of spirits | Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars.
  • Cash: Declare amounts over 10,000 WST (or equivalent).

Prohibited Items

  • Narcotics, weapons, endangered species products (e.g., turtle shells).
  • Counterfeit goods (may face fines or confiscation).

Luggage Issues

  • Report lost/damaged luggage within 21 days via a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) at the airport.

Complaints

Beach Access

  • Public beaches must allow free access within 2.5 meters of the shoreline; village ownership may restrict some areas.

Key Resources

Samoa Travel Safety

Samoa is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a reputation for hospitality. However, travelers should remain aware of health precautions, road safety, and emergency protocols. Below is a concise guide to staying safe and healthy in Samoa.

Safety Overview

  • Crime: Petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing) is rare but possible in crowded areas like Apia markets. Violent crime against tourists is extremely uncommon.
  • Solo/Female Travelers: Samoa is considered safe, with locals often welcoming; avoid isolated areas at night.
  • Road Safety:
    • Driving can be challenging due to narrow roads and wet conditions.
    • Avoid night driving outside Apia.
    • Seat belts and helmets (for motorbikes) are mandatory.

Health Risks

  • Food/Water Safety:
    • Tap water is safe in Apia; use bottled water in rural areas.
    • Practice safe eating habits to prevent travelers’ diarrhea.
  • Vaccinations:
    • Recommended: Hepatitis A, tetanus, COVID-19, typhoid.
    • Yellow Fever: Required only if arriving from a risk country.
  • Insect-Borne Diseases: Use repellent for dengue and Zika (prevalent in wet seasons).
  • Altitude Sickness: Not applicable; Samoa’s highest point is 1,857 meters (Mount Silisili), with minimal risk.

Medical Facilities

  • Hospitals: Tupua Tamasese Meaole Hospital in Apia offers basic care; rural areas lack advanced facilities.
  • Pharmacies: Available in Apia; carry essential medications for remote areas.
  • Insurance: Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation, especially for outer islands.

Emergency Contacts

  • General Emergency: 999 (works for police, ambulance, and fire).
  • Ambulance: 998 | Fire: 994 | Police: 999.
  • Tourist Assistance: Contact local police or Samoa Tourism: +685 63500.

Travel Tips

  • Roads: Rent a 4x4 for rural/mountainous areas; check insurance coverage.
  • Hiking: Use guides for trails (e.g., Mount Vaea).
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Respect fa’a Samoa (Samoan way); avoid disrupting village life on Sundays.
  • Air Quality: Generally good; monitor cyclone season (Nov-Apr) updates.

Key Links

Flying to Samoa

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