You should be aware that vehicle safety regulations are rarely enforced, and traffic violations occur routinely. However this morning he warned it was highly unlikely air travel in and out of the country would be opened soon. All of these efforts ensure we are in a top position to safely open borders to travellers, she said. Email:[email protected] or [email protected]. Financial transactions:Some businesses in Apia, especially those frequented by tourists, do accept credit cards, but many do not, including gas stations. Matafele The Pacific Island nation of Samoa will reopen to travellers in the coming months and is urging Aussie travellers to visit. Find out the entry rules for each country, Popular destinations open to most visitors from the United States. He said he would make a formal announcement about the government's plans "soon.". The last 12 Covid-19 samples from Samoa sent to New Zealand for testing have all returned negative results. Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Cruise ship passengers need not apply. Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine. However, disabled travelers should clarify with the hotel what accommodations are available before they book. Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA In a press release issued this week after the latest Cabinet meeting, Governor Lemanu Peleti Palepoi Sialega Mauga stated that when the public is 95% fully vaccinated, the government will be able to open the borders. The Crimes Ordinance 1961 and the more recent Crimes Act 2013, which came into effect in May 2013, criminalize same-sex acts. At least 48 hours prior to your arrival, you must apply for and receive authorization from the Entry Permit Waiver Program. The COVID-19 pandemic in Samoa is part of the ongoing worldwide pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2).The virus was confirmed to have reached Samoa on 18 November 2020. Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world. International Financial Scams:See theDepartment of Stateand theFBIpages for information. THEREFORE, I, Lolo M. Moliga, Governor of American Samoa, declare a continued public health emergency under ASCA 13.0301 et seq. The Samoan Government has announced it will be reopening its border to international travellers from August/September later this year. The rainy (or monsoon) season in the South Pacific is from November to April, when strong winds, heavy rains, landslides, and disruptions to services could occur. Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation. U.S. citizens have lodged a large number of complaints about unethical business practices. financial planning companies in bangalore Search. Stay Safe. ACC Building, Matafele. You should remain aware of your surroundings, lock your doors at night, and do not leave your belongings unattended. The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) allows citizens of participating countries* to travel to the United States without a visa for stays of 90 days or less, when they meet all requirements. Terms & Conditions | Due to the current outbreak of measles in Samoa, travellers intending to visit American Samoa are now required to demonstrate proof of immunisation at the border before entering the territory. By entering your email address you're giving us permission to send you news and offers. Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter American Samoa. Check with the Samoa Ministry of Customs and Revenue to ensure the medication is legal in Samoa. You can cancel anytime. Parents should be aware that U.S. citizens and non-citizen nationals 16 years of age and older have a right to apply for a U.S. passport and to request repatriation assistance from the U.S. government, both without parental consent. Bottled water and beverages are generally safe, although you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. Some HIV/AIDS entry restrictions exist for visitors to, and foreign residents of, Samoa. Samoa This Polynesian island will reopen in August. Travelers are advised to review their immunity status prior to arrival. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Fiame noted the second dose for paediatric programme will commence this week with more vaccines donated by New Zealand. Enjoy unlimited access to all our articles on any device + free trial to e-Edition. Telephone: +685 21436 / 21631 / 21452 or 22696 Cabinet has commended the vaccination campaign and the continued leadership by the Health and DAC in their perseverance with the program rollout in the community. 2023 The Misfits Media Company Pty Ltd. All Rights Reserved. +(685) 21631 press 0 for the operator or extension 2222. People seeking health care overseas should understand that medical systems operate differently from those in the United States and are not subject to the same rules and regulations. A further 55,000 doses are expected in the country by early June. Vehicles should never enter a stream if the roadbed is not visible or if the waters depth is more than the vehicles clearance. Samoa, one of the most popular Pacific Islands, is set to reopen its borders to travellers very soon. Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata'afa has confirmed the country will welcome arrivals of Samoan citizens and foreign contractors from May, and allow travellers into the country from August/September, subject to Samoa's vaccination progress and the removal of restrictions to facilitate quarantine-free travel. Ph: +684 6335919 We've lowered the travel advice level. Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers. High quality American Samoa Borders Open inspired Coffee Mugs by independent artists and designers from around the world. Flights to Samoa currently operate direct from Auckland with Air New Zealand, Sydney/Brisbane with Qantas, Nadi (Fiji) and Honolulu (Hawaii) with Fiji Airways. Some incidents have involved residential break-ins. Visit theU.S. Department of State COVID-19 Answers Portal. San Francisco, Honolulu, Darwin, Auckland. Samoa will reopen its borders to international travellers from August. In an announcement overnight, Prime Minister Fiam Naomi Mataafa has confirmed Samoa will welcome international travellers into the country from 1 August 2022. One of the major changes is that all incoming travellers will be released to go home if they test negative for Covid upon arrival and quarantine at home while those who are positive will be quarantined for seven days. If you have a COVID-19 related question, call SamoasCOVID-19helplineat8006440. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance. Holidaymakers wanting to travel to Samoa once borders re-open will likely have to wait until 2022. Orders that lifted the ban on mass gatherings. 'I've done it all' - Sir Rod Stewart on getting older and staying fit. From 22 September 2022, Samoa's international borders are open to all following the removal of restrictions. SAVALI ISSUE 08: DATED 03rd March 2023 | SAVALI 08: ASO 03 o Mati 2023; Saunoaga Aut a le Afioga i le Minisit o le Matgaluega o le Soifua Mllina i le "Fa'amanatuina o le Aso Fa'apitoa e Fa'atua ai le Fa'alogo" - (03/03/2023) Thailand and Singaporedropped its testing requirements late last month andFijidropped it early this month. Samoa Airways | Flight Bookings From Samoa to NZ & Australia Critical to this decision are the current rates of our vaccination programme. Visit theUnited States Embassy in Samoawebsitefor updated information. United States Embassy Samoa Visit theSamoa Immigration websitefor Samoas most current visa information. Decorate your laptops, water bottles, notebooks and windows. Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. Tongan borders are closed to entry to all foreign nationals, except if authorisation is granted by the relevant Tongan government authorities. New Caledonia, Tahiti, and Indonesiaall recently removed pre-departure testing requirements. Its just like the TV show Succession, but far less entertaining, raunchy, and everyone gets along. The prime minister said the important positive factor that had emerged from the restrictions was that most families were now worshipping together. Samoas Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa addresses the UN Human Rights Council in a session for her countrys Universal Periodic Review, 4 November, 2021. External links to other Internet sites should not be construed as an endorsement of the views or privacy policies contained therein. Anyone interested in traveling for medical purposes should consult with their local physician before traveling and visit the. Flights to Samoa currently operate direct from Auckland with Air New Zealand, Sydney/Brisbane with Qantas, Nadi (Fiji) and Honolulu (Hawaii) with Fiji Airways. The U.S. territory, 2,600 miles from Hawaii, shut down its borders in March to commercial flights to prevent . Chemoprophylaxis is recommended for all travelers even for short stays. Advice for women travellers. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. No specific groups have been targeted, and there have been no reported racially motivated or hate crimes against U.S. citizens. Samoa is located in an area of high seismic activity called the Ring of Fire and is subject to earthquakes which can trigger a tsunami. Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water. Restaurants in American Samoa are open with restrictions. Measles. Roads in Samoa often traverse small streams. American Samoa is one of the few places in the world with zero reported COVID-19 cases. White or transparent. Prime Minister Fiam Naomi Mata'afa has confirmed the country will welcome arrivals of Samoan citizens and foreign contractors from May, and allow travellers into the country from August/September, subject to Samoa's vaccination progress and the removal of . Due to poor and deteriorating road conditions, night driving on unlit rural roads can be dangerous and should be avoided if possible. Samoa Tourism continues to work towards safe border re-opening July 8, 2021 As it continues to prepare for safe tourism reactivation, Samoa has announced that it will be launching the Samoa Travel Tracer - a contact tracing application made possible through a collaborative partnership between the Samoa Tourism Authority and the Ministry of Health. Faith-Based Travelers: See the following webpages for details: LGBTI Travelers: Same-sex acts are a crime in Samoa, with prison terms of up to seven years. Consider hiring a private nurse or having family spend the night with the patient, especially a minor child. Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to American Samoa. Buses are slow, crowded, uncomfortable, undependable, and rarely used by visitors. Visit Samoan Government and/or Samoa Ministry of Health for the most up-to-date information in Samoa. Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Samoa are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. 11 December 2017, 12:00AM. Email:[email protected], By U.S.Embassy Samoa | 12 September, 2022 | Categories: Alert, Messages for U.S. Citizens, News, U.S. Citizen Services | Tags: Coronavirus, COVID-19, COVID-19 Information, With the COVID-19 pandemic, its a good reminder for U.S. Citizens in New Zealand to register with STEP. Samoa will reopen its borders to international travellers from August. For emergency services in Samoa, dial 911. Consult your airline, cruise line, or other travel operators regarding any updated information about your travel plans and/or restrictions. Prime Minister, Fiame Naomi Mataafa has announced the returning of students to school and the resuming of international flights this month, though restricted to Samoan citizens travelling in for various purposes. Most major roads are tar-sealed, but secondary roads are predominantly dirt and gravel and may be rough and/or overgrown with vegetation. Call us in Washington at 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). Some family-based beach accommodations in the outer villages are also working to provide accessibility for disabled persons. Applications for immigrant visas are not received or processed at the U.S. Embassy Apia. Prime Minister Fiam Naomi Mata'afa confirmed the country would welcome Samoan citizens and foreign contractors starting this month, and allow travellers into the country from August or September. It really is a world cruise and guests get to see an amazing variety of locations. Hepatitis B. Earlier Tuila'epa indicated Cabinet was likely to approve the gradual easing of restrictions imposed under the Covid-19 State of Emergency, which had now been extended for a further four weeks until 7 May. Tuilaepa confirms that Samoa's international borders will remain closed and while the local economy opens up, all are encouraged to uphold social distancing measures and act responsibly at all times. Full travel advice: Local laws. Dosing info - Hep A. For more information visit the Government of Samoa website. The footing around the mouths of most blowholes is very slippery. Copyright 2023 Osini Faleatasi Inc. dba Samoa News | All Rights Reserved, Despite police chiefs claims, ASCO employees not arrested or charged, Fagaitua & Leone High Schools' JROTCs accredited for next three years, Bipartisan Peace Corps Reauthorization Act reintroduced in U.S. House. It was Communion Sunday on February 5, 2023,and the Samoan Congregation at Joint Base Meyer-Henderson Hall hosted a church service and to'ona'i to welcome Governor Lemanu, First Lady Ella Mauga, and the American Samoa delegation to the DMV (DC, Maryland, Virginia) area. There were 19 COVID-19 related deaths to date including 3 new deaths within the past 48 hours. You can opt-out at any time. Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. Are health screening procedures in place at airports and other ports of entry? See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. One of the ferries, a multi-deck, automobile ferry, sometimes transports passengers on its automobile deck. Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. To avoid being swept in, you should not approach too closely and should never stand between the opening of the blowhole and the sea. Rapid antigen tests are readily available at public hospitals and private clinics. All international cruise ships and yachts scheduled to arrive after 19 March 2020 will not be granted entry into Tonga until further notice. Samoa has to overcome New Zealand in their final pool game of the Vancouver 7s in By Shalveen Chand Apia, SAMOA Samoa's Prime Minister says despite the nation still being Covid-19 free, it is highly unlikely the borders will be reopened at this stage, even to those wanting to attend urgent family matters. Health boss Leausa Take Naseri says borders will re-open only when 98 percent of the eligible population has been vaccinated against Covid-19. Monday 2nd May 2022, Apia Samoa. Contact | She said the State of Emergency orders changes also include reopening schools and extending business hours while a nationwide curfew remains from 10pm to 6am every day. Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata'afa. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. Mask usage in American Samoa is recommended in public spaces, enclosed environments and public transportation. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas. Please enable Javascript in current site to keep going. Canadians can visit American Samoa without an entry permit or visa for a period of up to 30 days. Samoa has secured enough vaccines for 40,000 people this year, a considerable shortfall on herd immunity target of 120,000 people. Leausa says despite rigorous border testing, vaccines are the last line of defense against the virus getting a foot-hold in the country. Although there have been no major accidents involving the ferry service linking Upolu and Savaii, vessels are sometimes overloaded. Samoa to reopen borders from August 4:15 pm on 3 May 2022 Samoa will reopen its borders to international travellers from August. See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details. Orders were recommended by the National Emergency Operation Centre (N.E.O.C.) Most hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment. 4 sizes available. He also touched on the importance of the suspension of church services and urged the use of the internet to stream services so members could worship from the safety of their homes. July 2, 2020. Photo: Samoa Government. In a special address to the nation this afternoon Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa has said Samoa's international borders will be open in the coming months, as early as August-September. Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescription in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with little controls. It was recorded that 65,949 rapid tests had been administered and a new supply of Pfizer vaccines to help continue the vaccination roll-out in Savaii. There is no law pertaining specifically to the status of disabled persons. Consular services are only being offered via appointment. The accident rate then dropped sharply, but soon rose to . First published by RNZ. It has been two years since Samoa closed its borders due to the pandemic which has had a major impact on the tourism industry and the overall economy. To avoid injury from shifting vehicles, you should ride only in the passenger compartment, not on the automobile deck during the crossing. U.S. citizens do not need a visa for stays of 90 days or less. American Samoa Open American Samoa Travel Restrictions 0% of citizens have been vaccinated Traveling from United States Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status Fully vaccinated Outgoing to American Samoa Return to the United States Traveling from the United States to American Samoa Samoa joins several other countries that have recently opened their borders and dropped travel requirements. Information about services and how to schedule an appointment can be found athttps://ws.usembassy.gov/. For additional IPCA-related information, please see theInternational Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act (ICAPRA)report. Unique American Samoa Borders Open stickers featuring millions of original designs created and sold by independent artists. The ferry was currently moored offshore until its 14 day period was over, next Thursday. Bipartisan Peace Corps Reauthorization Act reintroduced in U.S. House, In a surprise move, Dept of Health will lead the new hospital project, Man and woman face drug charges after roach intitially found in their vehicle. Cambodia reopened its borders to international tourism in November 2021. We advise: Travelers must have a valid passport and onward/return ticket to enter Samoa. What an honour to receive this award at Taumeasina Island Resort. The government says vaccination rates have remained pivotal in the decision to reopen, with the most recent data showing almost 93% of Samoa's population, aged 18 years and over, has been fully vaccinated. Exercise particular caution in and around the Beach Road strip of bars in Apia. Japan and Thailand will both drop testing requirements from the start of next month. Official Web Portal of the Government of Samoa. Assistance for U.S. Citizens. The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. You can use rental cars but be aware that limited roadside assistance is available. Office of American Citizens Services, Bureau of Consular Affairs. . You can get Samoan currency from ATMs, which are located in Faleolo Airport, Salelologa, and many locations in Apia. You must pay a departure tax when you leave the country (this tax is normally included in airfares). Entry and borders Tonga's borders fully reopened on 27th September 2022. If your guess was that the woman in the featured image snagged the job then youd be spot on. U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Fiame made the announcement on Monday night while advising of major changes to the current State of Emergency (S.O.E.) Fax: +685 22030 She added the Ministry of Health has predicted the virus to peak at the end of this month before the number of cases starts to fall. Blowholes:Samoa has numerous blowholes (lava tubes open to the sea where wave action produces often spectacular geysers). The Prime Minister said the amended S.O.E. Before that, Samoa would welcome the arrival of Samoan citizens and foreign contractors from this month. Apia, Samoa easy canvas painting with black background. Recommended Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome. For information about tropical cyclone preparedness, visit our, For information about all types of natural disasters, visit the. and a state of emergency under ASCA 26.0101 et seq. Cabinet approved the continuation of Level 2 (orange) for another two weeks effective on Tuesday midnight until 17 May, she said. Rapid antigen tests are readily available at public hospitals and private clinics. It's a possibility that travelers will have to show a negative test to enter the country. Fiame said critical to the opening of borders are current vaccination rates, amending quarantine requirements and opening of borders by Fiji, Australia and New Zealand for Samoa. Privacy, Prime Minister, Fiame Naomi Mata'afa during the announcement Could video game skills help you get a job? Non-citizen U.S. nationals will need a visitor permit before travelling to Samoa. Taumeasina Island Resort, where memories are made. *18 years and over have recorded 92.6 percent those have two doses *12 to 17 years old recorded 86.6 percent those have two doses *5 to 11 years old recorded 58.7 percent have had two doses U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Visit theDepartment of State Covid-19 crisis pagefor the latest information. Fines may be given to individuals, businesses and organizations who do not comply with the governments COVID restrictions. Many of the new multi-story buildings provide ramps and elevators, but older public buildings do not. For the most recent information on what you can do to reduce your risk of contracting or transmitting Covid-19, please read theCDCs latest recommendations. 281 Likes, TikTok video from Jen (@ft.jenvjva): "When these borders open, I'm going home #SAMOA #FYP #homeoswheretheheartis #685baby #beautifulsamoa #samoatiktok685". The changes include reopening schools, amended business hours and plans to open Samoa's international borders. Opening of international borders in August, September this year The Prime Minister also confirmed the latest statistics on vaccination in the country. Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata'afa announced on Monday major changes to Samoa's State of Emergency orders. Please exercise appropriate caution when you are walking, running, or riding a bike near stray dogs. American Samoa closed its borders in March. Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments. Its not all bad news, NCL is expecting to be sailing in clearer waters for the second half of 2023. Patients bear all costs for transfer to or between hospitals. A decision to allow quarantine-free international travel to Tahiti in July 2020 saw the country suffer a large COVID-19 outbreak, causing the government to close its borders again in February 2021 . Samoa's international borders officially open again from next week. Traffic travels on the left in Samoa, and you should exercise extra caution if you are accustomed to driving on the right. While rare, violent assaults, including sexual assaults, have occurred in Samoa. Are there COVID-related entry requirements for U.S. citizens? Fiame announced the relaxed restrictions to the current State of Emergency such as: The National University of Samoa to resume classes as planned for this month. Further information may be found on theFAAs safety assessment page. Telephone. Secondary, Primary and Early Childhood Education schools would gradually reopen this month upon Cabinets consideration of a schedule plan from the education sector on the resumption of schools. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctors prescription. Based on the health records and the base with which the virus has spread, it was expected COVID-19 would reach its peak by the end of this month. Samoa Latest update Still current at: 26 February 2023 Updated: 11 January 2023 Latest update:We've reviewed our advice for Samoa. The blind and persons in wheelchairs or on crutches will have difficulty navigating in and around Apia because of a limited number of stoplights and sidewalks. However, there is a very limited police presence elsewhere in Samoa (where order is maintained primarily by local village authorities), and police response outside of Apia is not as quick or reliable as it is in Apia. Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. PRC testing is no longer widely available. Travellers must have: For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website. All nationalities traveling to Samoa can apply for a 90-day Visitor Permit on arrival using the arrival card. Samoa's borders are likely to remain closed for the rest of the year, as health authorities set a Covid-19 vaccination target. "BEAUTIFUL SAMOA is BACK" Samoa Tourism Authority and Samoa Airport Authority welcoming arrivals - 1st and 2nd August 2022.