Samoa is straightforward for visitors: most travellers, Americans included, receive an entry permit on arrival for a tourist stay, rather than needing a visa in advance. The mission in New York handles enquiries and the categories that do require prior approval.
Quick facts
A genuine quirk worth knowing: Samoa moved to the western side of the international date line in 2011, so it is a day ahead of American Samoa a short flight away. Check the date as well as the time when booking connections.
Fees breakdown
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist entry permit | Usually free on arrival | Confirm for your nationality |
| Extension of stay | Charged in Samoa | Immigration authorities |
| Work or residence permit | Charged in Samoa | Through the employer |
| Transit country requirements | Charged by that country | New Zealand or Fiji |
| Consular visa | Consular tariff | Where a category requires one |
Most routes connect through Auckland, Fiji or Honolulu, and New Zealand in particular has transit requirements of its own. Check them separately from anything Samoa asks.
How to prepare
- Confirm the entry arrangement for your nationality with the mission.
- Check the transit rules for your connecting country.
- Carry proof of onward travel and accommodation.
- For work or residence, deal with the authorities in Apia through your employer.
- Check the date line when planning connections.
- Confirm insurance covering the region and cyclone season.
Required documents
- Passport valid at least six months beyond arrival.
- Return or onward ticket.
- Accommodation details.
- Transit documentation for your connecting country.
- Proof of lawful residence in the United States for third-country nationals.
- Evidence of funds where requested.
Where to apply
At the Permanent Mission in New York, which handles visa and immigration matters for the United States and Canada.
Additional notes
Samoa is not American Samoa
Travel to the American territory follows U.S. rules entirely. They are neighbours, not the same place.
Cyclone season
Roughly November to April. Check your insurance wording before booking in that window.
Samoans need no visa for Samoa
But citizens should keep a current passport. See the passport page.
Verify close to travel
Pacific entry arrangements change. Confirm near the date.