(2) The Ministry of Education, Sports and Culture: . Email:CASTEP@state.gov, 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. (File photo) Samoa's plan to reopen to the world would hinge on the country's vaccination. 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. Samoa will reopen its borders to international travellers from August. 2023 The Misfits Media Company Pty Ltd. All Rights Reserved. Samoa recently reduced its transmission level from. and see the Ministrys recent vaccination update. There are a few significant differences in the rules of the road in Samoa as compared to the United States (e.g., meeting situation at an intersection). Canadians can visit American Samoa without an entry permit or visa for a period of up to 30 days. Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water. Generally, hospital staffing is minimal overnight. Contact | Flights to Samoa currently operate direct from Auckland with Air New Zealand, Sydney/Brisbane with Qantas, Nadi (Fiji) and Honolulu (Hawaii) with Fiji Airways. Any U.S. citizen or non-citizen U.S. national has the right to contact a representative from the U.S. Embassy. At least 48 hours prior to your arrival, you must apply for and receive authorization from the Entry Permit Waiver Program. See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas. Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA With news that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is poised to approve Pfizers COVID-19 vaccine for young adults age 12 and older by this month and the territory nearing the deadline of its vaccination allocation, Lt Gov Talauega Eleasalo Ale has called on the Plans to open borders announced at this weeks cabinet meeting. Fax: +684 6335929. Check the CDC website for additional information and. Incidents of petty theft and robberies are common in Samoa. United States Embassy Samoa. Visitors indicating they have tested HIV positive will be subject to questioning by a health professional upon entry. Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata'afa. All of these efforts ensure we are in a top position to safely open borders to travellers, she said. Restaurants in American Samoa are open with restrictions. There is no recognition of same-sex relationships, marriage or adoption by same-sex couples in Samoa. 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. Fax: +685 22030 In January 2022, Samoa reported several cases in managed isolation among passengers from an . Create your very own adventure in beautiful Samoa! Sodomy is a criminal offence, punishable with a prison term. Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book. The Prime Minister said the amended S.O.E. The Prime Minister also confirmed the latest statistics on vaccination in the country. Fines may be given to individuals, businesses and organizations who do not comply with the governments COVID restrictions. There are also no anti-discrimination laws in place. 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. The ferry was currently moored offshore until its 14 day period was over, next Thursday. To avoid injury from shifting vehicles, you should ride only in the passenger compartment, not on the automobile deck during the crossing. There is no law pertaining specifically to the status of disabled persons. Before that, Samoa would welcome the arrival of Samoan citizens and foreign contractors from this month. Enjoy unlimited access to all our articles on any device + free trial to e-Edition. Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Martin, and Saint Barthlemy (French West Indies), North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea). You should not approach or feed them; they can become aggressive in the presence of food or if they feel threatened. Information about services and how to schedule an appointment can be found athttps://ws.usembassy.gov/. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. Samoa to reopen borders from August 4:15 pm on 3 May 2022 Samoa will reopen its borders to international travellers from August. 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. 11 December 2017, 12:00AM. Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Stay Informed: step.state.gov/step/. "The theme for this year's reopening of the borders, 'beautiful is back' is suitable for all our Samoans. Are U.S. citizens required to quarantine? See our webpage for more information oninsurance providers for overseas coverage. Samoa has secured enough vaccines for 40,000 people this year, a considerable shortfall on herd immunity target of 120,000 people. PO Box 1313 While rare, violent assaults, including sexual assaults, have occurred in Samoa. The average cost is around WST 20 (USD 8); payment is not covered by the government. Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website, and the NGA broadcast warnings. Photo: Samoa MoH. 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. 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 . Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. List any local resources that can provide additional useful information. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message. Thailand and Singaporedropped its testing requirements late last month andFijidropped it early this month. Roads in Samoa often traverse small streams. Visit Samoan Government and/or Samoa Ministry of Health for the most up-to-date information in Samoa. Are there restrictions on intercity or interstate travel? 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. Measles. To avoid being swept in, you should not approach too closely and should never stand between the opening of the blowhole and the sea. 05 March 2023, 7:00AM. Rapid antigen tests are readily available at public hospitals and private clinics. Travelers must have a valid passport and onward/return ticket to enter Samoa. Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering American Samoa. Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter American Samoa without restrictions. U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Emergency. . Samoa Latest update Still current at: 26 February 2023 Updated: 11 January 2023 Latest update:We've reviewed our advice for Samoa. Consider hiring a private nurse or having family spend the night with the patient, especially a minor child. Traffic travels on the left in Samoa, and you should exercise extra caution if you are accustomed to driving on the right. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. Samoa, one of the most popular Pacific Islands, is set to reopen its borders to travellers very soon. Most hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment. Visit theDepartment of State Covid-19 crisis pagefor the latest information. Fancy some sun and sand that isn't in Australia? Pacific health leaders expect benefits from health overhaul, Australia sending vaccine doses to Fiji, Timor Leste, Samoa Govt accused of negligence ahead of lethal 2019 measles outbreak, Vanuatu residents 'exhausted' after two cyclones in three days, Power outages, state of emergency as Kevin hits Vanuatu, Severe tropical cyclone Kevin lashes Vanuatu, a day after Judy, Man killed in Beach Haven fatal assault named, Super Rugby Pacific: Blues defeated by Brumbies 25-20, Lean on him: Aoteraoa artists pay tribute to Bill Withers. A national period of fasting and prayer is to be observed by every family in Samoa from Sunday 22 March 2020 until Sunday 29 March 2020 from 6.00am - 12.00pm daily. Samoa Independent State of Samoa Travel Advisory October 24, 2022 Samoa - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions Exercise normal precautions in Samoa. You must pay a departure tax when you leave the country (this tax is normally included in airfares). There have been several cases of attacks by multiple dogs. We've lowered the travel advice level. Other U.S. government agencies work with Samoa, some with offices in the Embassy and some throughout the country. Find continuously updated travel restrictions for Samoa such as border, vaccination, COVID-19 testing, and quarantine requirements. Hospitals usually require advance payment or proof of adequate insurance before admitting a patient. Amendments to quarantine conditions and the opening of borders for our neighbouring countries like Australia and Fiji as well as New Zealand. 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. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Samoa. Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments. You should exercise extreme caution when fording these streams, which can become swollen and dangerous with little warning. and a state of emergency under ASCA 26.0101 et seq. Apia, Samoa. Consult the CDC website for accurate, up-to-date information. Results are generally available within 30 minutes. You should be aware that vehicle safety regulations are rarely enforced, and traffic violations occur routinely. Find information on dual nationality, prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites. Photo: Samoa Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trader. All land borders between Cambodia and Vietnam, Thailand and Laos are now open. Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips. Prime Minister Pohiva Tu'i'onetoa said the plan to allow inbound passengers this month had been deferred. Patients bear all costs for transfer to or between hospitals. Apia, Samoa ACC Building, CEO of Samoa's tourism authority Fa'amatuainu Lenata'i Suifua said that vaccinations and a tracer . Stray dogs:In Apia, and in many villages, stray dogs wander the streets. Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. Some vehicles in Samoa have left-hand drive steering systems, including rental vehicles and public transportation. Currently, there are no requirements in place (such as health testing or quarantine) for all travelers entering the country, regardless of their vaccination status. 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. Man Shot Dead In Front Of Son In Targeted Attack Outside Gym, Migrant Shipwreck In Italy Kills At Least Fifty-Nine, Including Twelve Children, 'Poland Well-Prepared For Chinese Tourists' Arrivals, Turkey Widens Probe Into Building Collapses As Quake Toll Exceeds 50,000, Samoas Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa, Poland Well-Prepared For Chinese Tourists Arrivals, China Expands Transport Network To Boost Development, Prasad Launches Self-Defense Tool Business. 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. | Victims of Crime: U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance. 04 March 2023, 8:46PM. Business Hours Emergency Telephone:+685 21631 ext. 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. 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. Visit the website of theSamoa Tourism Authorityfor road safety information. You can opt-out at any time. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade is not issuing a specific travel advisory for American Samoa at this time. Advice for women travellers. You can get Samoan currency from ATMs, which are located in Faleolo Airport, Salelologa, and many locations in Apia. 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. All international cruise ships and yachts will not be granted entry into Samoa. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Resources for Travelers regarding specific issues in Samoa. Visit theUnited States Embassy in Samoawebsitefor updated information. Visitors to Samoa, U.S. Citizens with emergencies, please call [685] 21631 press 0 for the operator or extension 2222, Outside of Office Hours, contact: [685] 7771776, Phone: +685 21436+685 21436 / 21631 / 21452 or 22696. Dosing info - Hep B. Travel.state.gov Country Information and Travel Advisory page. The Samoan Government has announced an official date for Samoa to reopen its borders to international travellers. Recommended in public spaces, enclosed environments and public transportation. First published by RNZ. The Samoan Government said that it is prioritising health and safety and is implementing a digital contact tracing app, training and upskilling for local employees, and has upgraded travel instructions and bolstered testing capabilities. Featuring DJs, live performances, drag queens and more, Pride Village is the place to be this weekend! All nationalities traveling to Samoa can apply for a 90-day Visitor Permit on arrival using the arrival card. Are vaccines available in Samoa for U.S. citizens to receive? From 22nd September 2022, COVID-19 test and vaccination requirements were removed and no longer apply for travel and entry. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. *Opening of international borders in August, September this year The Prime Minister also confirmed the latest statistics on vaccination in the country. Samoa welcomes restart of cruise ship port calls The Port of Apia will welcome the return of cruise ships when Westerdam and Zuiderdam from the Holland America line call in at Matautu on Tuesday 18th October and Thursday 20th October respectively. Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata'afa announced on Monday major changes to Samoa's State of Emergency orders. Cambodia reopened its borders to international tourism in November 2021. 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. The prime minister said the important positive factor that had emerged from the restrictions was that most families were now worshipping together. Happy 108th birthday to the U.S. Navy Reserve. Need help? The country reported its second case on 27 November. Seven people (and one dog) were injured as a result of the severe turbulence. Review the. We advise: Most major roads are tar-sealed, but secondary roads are predominantly dirt and gravel and may be rough and/or overgrown with vegetation. Some family-based beach accommodations in the outer villages are also working to provide accessibility for disabled persons. Something we love to see! Assist you in reporting a crime to the police, Contact relatives or friends with your written consent, Provide general information regarding the victims role during the local investigation and following its conclusion, Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution, Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home. Parents may also contact the. Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to American Samoa. See our webpage for further information. Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Samoa should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts. Samoa's alert level 2 will be extended for another two weeks effective from midnight Tuesday until May 17. And we have the answer! Samoa Ministry of Health Covid-19 vaccination advisory, 6 May 2021. Samoa joins several other countries that have recently opened their borders and dropped travel requirements. Consult your airline, cruise line, or other travel operators regarding any updated information about your travel plans and/or restrictions. Official Web Portal of the Government of Samoa. Register or sign in to create events, jobs and access premium features. 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. This is the official website of the U.S. Embassy in Samoa. All orders are custom made and most ship worldwide within 24 hours. Most buses and taxis do not have ramps to accommodate wheelchairs. Online application - Entry Permit Waiver Program Yellow fever 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. For more information visit the Government of Samoa website. Could video game skills help you get a job? Exercise particular caution in and around the Beach Road strip of bars in Apia. Pago Pago, American Samoa 96799 Fiame noted the second dose for paediatric programme will commence this week with more vaccines donated by New Zealand. Qantas has gone full Malcolm Turnbull and is on the jobs and growth kick. Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients. Visit theSamoa Immigration websitefor Samoas most current visa information. Their repatriation, or safe return home, would take some strategic planningand time. Telephone: +685 21436 / 21631 / 21452 or 22696 Some taxis are unlicensed, so you should use care in choosing a taxi and driver. The last 12 Covid-19 samples from Samoa sent to New Zealand for testing have all returned negative results. Further information may be found on theFAAs safety assessment page. Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates. Get all the info about the event right here. State.gov Country Information and Travel Advisory page. Leausa says the ministry is negotiating with New Zealand to secure vaccines for the remaining population. 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. 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. Check the CDC website for additional information andFrequently Asked Questions. +685 777 1776 Please leave a message and the Duty Officer will return your call. You can find more information about entry requirements and the departure tax fromtheSamoa Mission to the United Nationsat 800-2nd Avenue, Suite 400J, New York, NY 10017, ph: +(212) 599-6196 and fax: +(212) 599-0797, orby email. 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. READ MORE >> News Releases Tourism Views & Insights Published Monday, 17 October 2022 Police in Apia generally respond quickly to incidents. If you have a COVID-19 related question, call Samoa's COVID-19 helpline at 8006440. Could video game skills help you get a job? 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.