Samoa

Professional Immigration Services for Samoa Travel

If you're planning to experience Samoa's pristine beaches, vibrant Polynesian culture, or explore business opportunities in this stunning South Pacific nation, understanding the visa landscape is essential for seamless travel preparation.

Comprehensive Visa Pathway Guidance

Whether you're pursuing tourism adventures across Upolu and Savai'i islands, conducting business in Apia, or seeking educational opportunities, Samoa maintains specific entry requirements that vary significantly based on your nationality and travel purpose.

Our expert team specializes in transforming complex immigration processes into clear, actionable strategies for various traveler categories:

• Tourist Visa Applications - Cultural exploration and leisure travel
• Business Entry Permits - Professional opportunities and investments
• Student Visa Processing - Educational pursuits and academic programs

Navigating Samoa's Immigration Framework

Samoa's relatively welcoming visa policy offers multiple pathways for international visitors, though specific documentation and eligibility criteria must be carefully addressed to ensure compliance with current regulatory standards.

Most visitors to Samoa enjoy visa-free entry for tourism and business purposes, making it one of the Pacific's most accessible destinations. However, entry requirements vary significantly based on your nationality and intended length of stay.

Visa-Free Access to Samoa

Citizens of the following countries can enter Samoa without a visa:

• 60 days: Australia, New Zealand, United Kingdom, United States, Canada, European Union countries, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and Malaysia
• 30 days: Most Pacific Island nations including Fiji, Tonga, Vanuatu, and Cook Islands
• 90 days: Citizens of countries with special diplomatic agreements

Essential Entry Requirements

All travelers must present:

• Passport valid for minimum 6 months from arrival date
• Confirmed onward or return ticket
• Proof of sufficient funds ($200 USD per week)
• At least one blank passport page for entry stamp

Who Needs a Visa?

Visitors from countries not listed above must obtain a visa before travel. This includes most African, Middle Eastern, and some Asian countries. Transit passengers staying longer than 24 hours or leaving the airport also require appropriate documentation.

Special Considerations

Extensions: Visa-free stays can be extended up to 12 months through Samoa Immigration. Business travelers conducting commercial activities beyond meetings may need work permits. Always verify current requirements through official Samoa Immigration channels before departure.

Understanding the correct visa category is essential for successful travel to Samoa. Each visa type serves specific purposes with distinct requirements, validity periods, and application processes designed to accommodate various travel intentions.

Tourist and Visitor Visas

Short-term Tourist Visa allows stays up to 60 days for leisure activities, with single or multiple-entry options available. Long-term Visitor Visa extends up to 12 months for extended holidays or family visits, requiring additional financial documentation and comprehensive travel itineraries.

Business Visa Categories

Business visas cater to commercial activities with varying durations:

• Single-entry Business Visa: 30-90 days for conferences, meetings, or negotiations
• Multiple-entry Business Visa: Up to 12 months for ongoing commercial relationships
• Investment Visa: Extended validity for substantial business investments

Work and Employment Visas

Work Permit Visa requires employer sponsorship and labor market testing, typically valid for contract duration. Skilled Worker Visa targets professionals in shortage occupations, offering longer validity periods and potential extension pathways.

Student and Academic Visas

Student Visa covers full-time education with validity matching course duration plus additional months. Research Visa accommodates academic researchers and visiting scholars, requiring institutional sponsorship and research proposals.

Transit and Special Categories

Transit Visa permits 72-hour stopovers for onward travel. Diplomatic and Official Visas serve government representatives. Family Reunion Visa enables visits to Samoan residents or citizens, requiring relationship documentation and sponsor guarantees.

Processing times vary from 5-15 business days depending on visa complexity and supporting documentation completeness.

Visa Processing Times

Most travelers can visit Samoa visa-free for up to 60 days upon arrival. Extended visitor permits require processing through Samoa Immigration Division with 5-10 business days standard processing. Work permit applications typically take 4-6 weeks, while business visas process within 7-14 business days.

Application Locations & Methods

Applications are submitted directly to:

• Samoa Immigration Division - Level 3, Government Building, Apia
• Online portal: immigration.gov.ws for preliminary applications
• Samoa diplomatic missions in Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji

Fees & Payment Structure

Visitor permit extensions cost WST $100 (≈USD $37) for additional 30 days. Work permits range from WST $500-2,000 depending on duration and category. Business permits cost approximately WST $200-500. Payments accepted via bank transfer or cash at immigration offices.

Essential Documents

• Valid passport with 6+ months validity
• Confirmed return/onward ticket
• Proof of accommodation
• Financial evidence (minimum WST $200/week recommended)
• Employment letter for work permits

Key Contact Information

Samoa Immigration Division: +685 21291 | immigration@gov.ws
Emergency contact: Available 24/7 through Samoa Police +685 22222

Peak Season Considerations

Processing may extend during December-February holiday season and during major cultural events. Apply 2-3 weeks earlier during these periods for optimal processing times.

Step 1: Determine Your Visa Requirements

Identify the appropriate visa category based on your travel purpose and nationality. Tourist visas are valid for up to 60 days, while business visas require additional documentation. Check if your country qualifies for visa-free entry or visa-on-arrival arrangements.

Step 2: Gather Required Documentation

Compile essential documents including:

• Valid passport with minimum 6 months validity
• Completed visa application form
• Recent passport-sized photographs
• Flight itinerary and accommodation bookings
• Financial statements demonstrating sufficient funds

Step 3: Complete Application Forms

Submit applications through the Samoa Immigration online portal or obtain paper forms from designated consulates. Ensure all information matches your supporting documents exactly to avoid processing delays.

Step 4: Schedule and Submit Application

Book an appointment at the nearest Samoan consulate or embassy. Submit your complete application package during your scheduled visit. Arrive punctually with all original documents and copies.

Step 5: Pay Processing Fees

Visa fees vary by nationality and type: tourist visas typically cost $40-80 USD. Payment methods include money orders, bank drafts, or cash depending on the processing location.

Step 6: Track Application Status

Monitor your application progress through the online tracking system using your reference number. Standard processing takes 5-10 business days for most visa categories.

Step 7: Collect Your Visa

Retrieve your processed passport from the submission location or receive it via registered mail if postal service was requested. Verify all visa details before traveling to ensure accuracy.