COVID-19 Precautionary Measures in Samoa (12 April Update)

Can a resident enter the country?

• Yes

• Citizens and permanent residents are allowed to enter.

Can a foreigner enter the country?

• No with exceptions

• Foreigners are not allowed to enter. Only essential workers are allowed to enter Samoa at this time.

Test certificate required?

• Yes

• A COVID-19 negative certificate obtained within 72 hours of travel is required on arrival. All travellers need to present a hard copy of a COVID-19 test and medical report on arrival to health officers.

Is quarantine required on arrival?

• Yes

• Arriving travellers will be required to quarantine for 14 days.

• Based on the above restrictions, all incoming travellers will be subjected to a minimum of 14 days of quarantine.

Entry form required?

• Yes

• Travellers must complete the Medical Clearance form available here.

Vaccination Required

• No

• A vaccination for COVID-19 is not required for entry into the country.

Insurance Required

• No

• Proof of insurance coverage for COVID-19 expenses is not required to enter the country.

Airline Restrictions

• Significant

• There are limited commercial flights to and from the country.

• The Samoan Government has allowed flights between the islands of Savai'i and Upolu only for medical emergencies.

• Very limited cargo and repatriation flights are operating.

Border Restrictions

• Significant

• Samoa’s international borders are currently closed under an ongoing State of Emergency.

• All travellers from outside of New Zealand must spend 28 days in New Zealand before onward travel to Samoa and must comply with all requirements.

• All travellers to Samoa must undergo a medical examination by a registered medical practitioner within three days before arrival.

• Travellers will not be permitted to board the plane if they have a positive COVID-19 test, do not have a negative COVID-19 certificate, or if they are showing symptoms.

• Seaport access to Apia is limited to cargo ships only. Health screening for crew and passengers is mandatory.

• Cargo and transport services are operating between Samoa and American Samoa.

• International cruise ships and yachts will not be granted entry into Samoa.

Curfew Restrictions

• Moderate

• The government has extended the state of emergency until 9 May 2021. This entails restrictions on entry to Samoa and other COVID-19 restrictions.

Social Distancing Restrictions

• Minimal

• Public gatherings are limited to 100 people.

• Family reunions are restricted to five people, as are graveside or committal services for funerals.

• Entertainment venues are operating at reduced capacity and if following social distancing norms.

• A ban on most gatherings and public activities remains in place on Sundays.

Internal Travel Restrictions

• Moderate

• Inter-island travel and public transport have resumed.

• No services will operate on Sundays.

• Masks are not required.

Non-essential shops open?

• Yes

• Most non-essential shops are open.

• Supermarkets are allowed to open.

Accommodations open?

• Yes

• Hotels and private rentals are open.

Restaurants open?

• Yes

• Restaurants and entertainment venues are open.

Bars and cafes open?

• Yes

• Cafes are open.

Beaches open?

• Yes

• Swimming in rivers is permitted, and beaches are open except on Sundays.

Masks required in public?

• No

• Masks are recommended.

The COVID-19 epidemic is constantly changing worldwide. Travel and border restrictions may change with little or no notice. Airlines may have their own requirements for testing, masking, and distancing. It is recommended that travellers carry a supply of face masks since the requirement can vary by location. It is recommended that travellers practice social distancing and maintain a 6-foot distance from other individuals and avoid crowded areas. Check with your airline, booking agent, or country's embassy for information on your specific travel plans.