Tourists are not required to have travel permits for stays shorter than 30 days. Any traveler staying for more than this length of time will need to apply for a travel permit prior to embarking on their journey to Western Samoa.
U.S. nationasl based in American Samoa must apply for single or multiple entry permits. This needs to be done prior to traveling and can be done directly through Immigration at Apia or in the consulate at Pago Pago. A fee is payable for this permit. Allow at least 72 hours for processing.
Applications for tourist permits exceeding 30 days can be made through Samoan Consulate, High Commission and Embassies in the following countries: USA, New Zealand, Australia and Belgium.
You must be able to show that Samoa is not your final destination. By ensuring you have onward travel arrangements, such as a return ticket, you can avoid unnecessary travel delays or -- worse still -- the risk of being turned away. Always make sure that you have the appropriate visas in place for the journey from Samoa.
Samoan officials require that all visitors' passports remain valid for at least six months after departing the islands. So, if you're leaving in June, make certain that your passport doesn't expire until after December.
Visitors must show their self-sufficiency to gain entry. In your hand luggage keep details of your accommodation arrangements (including names and addresses) and a photo copy of a recent bank statement.
As an island nation, passport control must do its best to keep the borders free from health risks. Be aware that you may be refused entry if you have any health problems which pose a threat to the island's inhabitants.
Any visitor whose name appears on a warning list or who has a criminal record with any charge resulting a sentence greater than 12 months will automatically be refused entry.
