Samoa joins several other countries that have recently opened their borders and dropped travel requirements. While in Samoa, individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation very different from in the United States. Sexual assaults occur. Chemoprophylaxis is recommended for all travelers even for short stays. 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. Some HIV/AIDS entry restrictions exist for visitors to, and foreign residents of, Samoa. Samoa's borders have opened to the world with fanfare, celebrations and happy reunions. The Prime Minister said the amended S.O.E. (File photo) Samoa's plan to reopen to the world would hinge on the country's vaccination. Your legal options in case of malpractice are very limited in Samoa. 18 years and over have recorded 92.6 per cent those have two doses 12 to 17 years old recorded 86.6 per cent those have two doses 5 to 11 years old recorded 58.7 per cent have had two doses (Photo: Samoa Government Facebook page), The National University of Samoa to resume classes as planned for early this month, Secondary, Primary and Early Childhood Schools will gradually open in May upon Cabinets consideration of scheduled plan from Ministry of Education Sports and Culture on resumption of all schools, Business opening hours are extended from 6am to 10pm from Monday to Saturday, Curfew starts from 11pm to 6am the next day whereby only authorised personnel and vehicles are allowed on the road, For Sundays, business hours start from 12pm to 10pm at night, Public gatherings including church services are open but the public is encouraged to maintained social distancing, wearing facial mask and showing of vaccination masks, Resume international flights from this month May, for all our citizens travelling to Samoa for various purposes and for all those contracted to work in Samoa, Opening of international borders in August, September this year, 18 years and over have recorded 92.6 per cent those have two doses, 12 to 17 years old recorded 86.6 per cent those have two doses, 5 to 11 years old recorded 58.7 per cent have had two doses, A total of 70,439 have had their booster shots. Their repatriation, or safe return home, would take some strategic planningand time. F iji says it is already experiencing a boom in demand after announcing this week that it would open up quarantine-free travel to visitors from select countries, almost two years after closing its . Internal Restrictions: *Travel in Samoa: A State of Emergency was declared on 20 March 2020. Critical to the decision to reopen Samoas international borders was the current rates of the vaccination programme, amendments to quarantine conditions and the opening of borders of neighbouring countries like Australia and Fiji as well as New Zealand in October this year. Travelers are advised to review their immunity status prior to arrival. San Francisco, Honolulu, Darwin, Auckland. 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. 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. Samoa will reopen its borders to international travellers from August. Canadians can visit American Samoa without an entry permit or visa for a period of up to 30 days. You can use rental cars but be aware that limited roadside assistance is available. List any local resources that can provide additional useful information. PO Box 1313 "Cabinet considered the plan for reopening of our international borders. Print Subscription | THEREFORE, I, Lolo M. Moliga, Governor of American Samoa, declare a continued public health emergency under ASCA 13.0301 et seq. Bars in American Samoa are . Iupeli Siliva Building Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world. Photo: Samoa Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trader. Take care not to offend. Relaxed Restriction You certainly wont miss the new wildlife ambulance when its out on the road! 4 sizes available. Parents may also contact the. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic. *Opening of international borders in August, September this year The Prime Minister also confirmed the latest statistics on vaccination in the country. In late 2019, Samoa suffered a measles epidemic. Stray dogs:In Apia, and in many villages, stray dogs wander the streets. 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. Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata'afa. All land borders between Cambodia and Vietnam, Thailand and Laos are now open. Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering American Samoa. July 20, 2022 News & Events. Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine. In an announcement overnight, Prime Minister Fiam Naomi Mataafa has confirmed Samoa will welcome international travellers into the country from 1 August 2022. Currently 7 percent have received their first shot of the two-dose AstraZeneca vaccine. All international cruise ships and yachts will not be granted entry into Samoa. Amendments to quarantine conditions and the opening of borders for our neighbouring countries like Australia and Fiji as well as New Zealand. Flights to Samoa currently operate direct from Auckland with Air New Zealand, Sydney/Brisbane with Qantas, Nadi (Fiji) and Honolulu (Hawaii) with Fiji Airways. Samoa will open to citizens first in May before it welcomes international travellers in August. External links to other Internet sites should not be construed as an endorsement of the views or privacy policies contained therein. Consular services are only being offered via appointment. 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. Seven people (and one dog) were injured as a result of the severe turbulence. You can opt-out at any time. Barbados American Samoa specific information: Belarus: Belarus requires most foreign citizens arriving in the country to either come with a negative COVID-19 test issued within 48 hours before arrival or quarantine for 14 days. Fax: +685 22030 We've lowered the travel advice level. For more information on ATM locations and banking services, visit theANZ Bankwebsite or theBSPwebsite. Are U.S. citizens required to quarantine? Adequate health facilities are available in Apia but health care in rural areas may be below U.S. standards. Recommended Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome. and a state of emergency under ASCA 26.0101 et seq. Normal Immigration requirements, as outlined below, apply. Incidents of petty theft and robberies are common in Samoa. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. Please visit the. Box Therapy for Mental Wellness. Photo: Samoa MoH. 3 weather alerts in effect American Samoa closed its borders in March. Samoa Latest update Still current at: 26 February 2023 Updated: 11 January 2023 Latest update:We've reviewed our advice for Samoa. Samoa has to overcome New Zealand in their final pool game of the Vancouver 7s in By Shalveen Chand HIV/AIDS: Only minimal treatment is available in Samoa. Need help? WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus warned about fresh Covid-19 waves during the week. Consider hiring a private nurse or having family spend the night with the patient, especially a minor child. Fancy some sun and sand that isn't in Australia? Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. Register or sign in to create events, jobs and access premium features. Samoa Ministry of Health Covid-19 vaccination advisory, 6 May 2021. While rare, violent assaults, including sexual assaults, have occurred in Samoa. Samoa will officially open its borders to the world again next week - and it seems Kiwi travellers have been eager to go, with the first few flights out of New Zealand completely booked out. Email:AmEmbApia@state.gov or ApiaConsular@state.gov. The ferry was currently moored offshore until its 14 day period was over, next Thursday. Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescription in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with little controls. Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Samoa should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts. Advertising | Please exercise appropriate caution when you are walking, running, or riding a bike near stray dogs. Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance. Most major hotels, restaurants, and cafes are actively restructuring their facilities to accommodate persons with disabilities. Of the latest cases, 202 patients admitted, 11 are in isolation at the Tupua Tamasese Meaole Hospital, 1 in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and the rest discharged. It really is a world cruise and guests get to see an amazing variety of locations. Task Force urged to ramp up media campaign to reach unvaccinated. 2023 The Misfits Media Company Pty Ltd. All Rights Reserved. If youare a U.S. citizen witha life-or-death emergency that requires a consular service, please contact the number listed below. An uncle who has been convicted of sexual offenses against his sisters children By Joyetter Feagaimaalii-Luamanu Be aware of your surroundings. Apia, Samoa. Consultthe CDC websitefor accurate, up-to-date information. Cargo planes have been busier than ever in recent years, so the move towards sustainable aviation fuel is a big step forward for the environment. Visit the website of theSamoa Tourism Authorityfor road safety information. Advice for women travellers. However this morning he warned it was highly unlikely air travel in and out of the country would be opened soon. Samoan authorities have laid out their Covid-19 vaccination plans, listing people who will receive the incoming Astra Zeneca vaccine by consent. Register here if you don't have an account. Flights to Samoa currently operate direct from Auckland with Air New Zealand, Sydney/Brisbane with Qantas, Nadi (Fiji) and Honolulu (Hawaii) with Fiji Airways. As international travel begins to take shape again, Samoa has been striving to ensure critical components of our travel-ready toolkit are in place. For more information see Requirement for Proof of COVID-19 Vaccination for Air Passengers. Stranded residents are finally. The U.S. territory, 2,600 miles from Hawaii, shut down its borders in March to commercial flights to prevent . All nationalities traveling to Samoa can apply for a 90-day Visitor Permit on arrival using the arrival card. Leausa says the ministry is negotiating with New Zealand to secure vaccines for the remaining population. Schools open on Monday 4 May 2020, until further notice. Taxis are widely available and used by Samoans and visitors alike. Samoas Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa has announced the plan to reopen Samoas international borders to international travellers from August/September this year. 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Prime Minister Fiam Naomi Mata'afa confirmed this week that the country would welcome visitors into the country in August and September, just a few months way from now. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance. REOPENING BORDERS Samoa borders will open once eligible population fully vaccinated Apia, SAMOA Samoa's new Minister of Health said a planned travel bubble with New Zealand will not happen until the country's eligible population are fully vaccinated against Covid-19. Travellers must have: Report crimes to the local police at 911 and contact the U.S. Embassy at 21631 Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. Featuring DJs, live performances, drag queens and more, Pride Village is the place to be this weekend! Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance. The Samoan Government has announced an official date for Samoa to reopen its borders to international travellers. 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. 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. Privacy, Prime Minister, Fiame Naomi Mata'afa during the announcement Local anticipation is building at travel borders opening again after more than a year of emergency restrictions to protect against the spread of the COVID 19 pandemic. Samoa's borders are likely to remain closed for the rest of the year, as health authorities set a Covid-19 vaccination target. Prime Minister Pohiva Tu'i'onetoa said the plan to allow inbound passengers this month had been deferred. Samoas Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa addresses the UN Human Rights Council in a session for her countrys Universal Periodic Review, 4 November, 2021. Its the question on every Intrepid employees mind. Assistance for U.S. Citizens. Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers. 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. Sign up for email alerts as countries begin to open - choose the destinations you're interested in so you're in the know. Menu Happy 108th birthday to the U.S. Navy Reserve. It's a possibility that travelers will have to show a negative test to enter the country. Visit theUnited States Embassy in Samoawebsitefor updated information. There were 19 COVID-19 related deaths to date including 3 new deaths within the past 48 hours. ACC Building, Matafele. Entry and borders Tonga's borders fully reopened on 27th September 2022. Could video game skills help you get a job? Samoa has secured enough vaccines for 40,000 people this year, a considerable shortfall on herd immunity target of 120,000 people. Traffic is particularly hazardous for the disabled in rural areas that have no footpaths and sidewalks. Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata'afa announced on Monday major changes to Samoa's State of Emergency orders. We look forward to welcoming visitors with open arms later this year, and we encourage travellers to experience Samoas untouched beauty, unique cultural experiences, rich heritage and friendly locals for themselves.. 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. Photo / PMN Samoa. "Resume international flights from this month (May) for all our citizens travelling to Samoa for various purposes, and all those who are contracted to work in Samoa," she said. In March of 2020, as the pandemic started its global rampage, American Samoa closed its borders, effectively shutting out the virus, as well as more than a thousand American Samoans stranded in Hawaii, the U.S. mainland and abroad. The CDC's latest guidance on international travel for vaccinated people can be foundhere. Normal Immigration requirements, as outlined below, apply. Buses are slow, crowded, uncomfortable, undependable, and rarely used by visitors. Greece: From 1 May 2022, travelers to Greece no longer need to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination, a negative test, or a certificate of recovery. Get all the info about the event right here. United States Embassy Samoa Aviation Safety Oversight: he U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Samoas Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Samoas air carrier operations. There is one overseas treatment center or Behavior Modification Facility operating in Samoa. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas. Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Martin, and Saint Barthlemy (French West Indies), North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea). Apia, SAMOA Samoa's new Minister of Health said a planned travel bubble with New Zealand will not happen until the country's eligible population are fully vaccinated against Covid-19. Hospitals usually require advance payment or proof of adequate insurance before admitting a patient. updated: 10 Jul 2020 Belarus American Samoa specific information: Belgium updated: 08 Mar 2022 See our webpage for further information. See our Road Safety page for more information. No specific groups have been targeted, and there have been no reported racially motivated or hate crimes against U.S. citizens. All orders are custom made and most ship worldwide within 24 hours. Stay Informed: step.state.gov/step/. What an honour to receive this award at Taumeasina Island Resort. The Crimes Ordinance 1961 and the more recent Crimes Act 2013, which came into effect in May 2013, criminalize same-sex acts. State.gov Country Information and Travel Advisory page. Travellers must have: For more information, visit Permit Services Ministry of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (mpmc.gov.ws). In Samoa, driving under the influence could land you immediately in jail. Telephone: +685 21436 / 21631 / 21452 or 22696 Verify this information with the SamoanOverseas Missionbefore you travel. Holidaymakers wanting to travel to Samoa once borders re-open will likely have to wait until 2022. Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments. Sweden switched to RHT in 1967, having been LHT from about 1734 despite having land borders with RHT countries, and approximately 90% of cars being left-hand drive (LHD). All nationalities traveling to Samoa can apply for a 90-day Visitor Permit on arrival using the arrival card. Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse. Matafele Tongan borders are closed to entry to all foreign nationals, except if authorisation is granted by the relevant Tongan government authorities. There is no recognition of same-sex relationships, marriage or adoption by same-sex couples in Samoa. Enroll inSmart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)to receive security updates. Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata'afa announced on Monday major changes to Samoa's State of Emergency orders. Find information on dual nationality, prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites. VisitSamoan Governmentand/orSamoa Ministry of Healthfor the most up-to-date information inSamoa. Police in Apia generally respond quickly to incidents. Pedestrians as well as vehicles and livestock regularly travel these roads. Fiame noted the second dose for paediatric programme will commence this week with more vaccines donated by New Zealand. First published by RNZ. Rapid antigen tests are readily available at public hospitals and private clinics. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. International Financial Scams:See theDepartment of Stateand theFBIpages for information. Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We advise: Find out the entry rules for each country, Popular destinations open to most visitors from the United States. 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). 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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. Samoa continues under Alert Level 2 for two more weeks commencing midnight tonight until 17 May 2022. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Resources for Travelers regarding specific issues in Samoa.