Moving to Samoa
The Independent State of Samoa is a country that governs the Samoan islands, located in the South Pacific Ocean. The two main islands are Upolu and Savai’i, and then there are eight small islets. The capital and largest city is Apia. Samoa has been independent from New Zealand since 1962. English and Samoan are the official languages of this country. The government is a parliamentary republic. The country has a population of about 179,000 people. Samoa has a tropical climate with a rainy season between November and April.
Visas
Work Permit
In order to apply for a work permit, you must first have a job lined up.
You must fill out an application, and include information about your personal job and information about your employer, as well as how long your contract guarantees your employment. You can mail your completed application to the Samoa Immigration Office in Apia, or the Government of Samoa Overseas Missions.
You must also submit the following documents:
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Employment references
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Valid passport
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Copies of training, copies of academic accomplishments
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Proof of funding
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Two recent passport photos
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Police clearance forms
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Fees
If you plan on staying in Samoa for over one year, then you must also fill out a Medical Report Form and Radiology Report Form.
Click here for FAQs on work permits in Samoa.
Click here for some additional information.
Click here for the official government website on work permits in Samoa.
Student Visa
If you wish to study in Samoa, you are required to obtain a Temporary Resident Permit for Study.
You must first be accepted into an accredited educational institution. You can mail your completed application to the Samoa Immigration Office in Apia, of the Government of Samoa Overseas Missions.
You must submit the following documents:
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Completed application form
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Acceptance letter from your school
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Proof of enrollment
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If you are under a scholarship, information confirming its details
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Evidence of accommodation arrangements
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Valid passport
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Police clearance forms
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Fees
If you plan on staying in Samoa for over one year, then you must also fill out a Medical Report Form and Radiology Report Form.
Click here for general information on studying abroad in Samoa.
Moving Pets
Before you import your pet into Samoa, you must first contact the Department of Agriculture Apia, Samoa, to obtain an import permit. You must also obtain a certificate of health, signed by an accredited veterinarian.
Click here for other customs information.
Other Information
Click here for general information on Samoa.
Click here for a map of Samoa.
Click here for an overview of the history of Samoa.