Most major roads are tar-sealed, but secondary roads are predominantly dirt and gravel and may be rough and/or overgrown with vegetation. Although this facility may be operated and staffed by U.S. citizens, the Samoan government is solely responsible for its compliance with local safety, health, sanitation, and educational laws and regulations, including all licensing requirements of the staff in country. Samoa has lifted all COVID-19 related travel restrictions. Samoa Opens Up Local Economy but Keeps International Borders Closed The Samoan Government has announced it will be reopening its border to international travellers from August/September later this year. Prime Minister Fiame Says Samoa's International Borders Will Open in 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. External links to other Internet sites should not be construed as an endorsement of the views or privacy policies contained therein. Pedestrians as well as vehicles and livestock regularly travel these roads. U.S. DEPARTMENT of STATE BUREAU of CONSULAR AFFAIRS, +685 777 1776 Please leave a message and the Duty Officer will return your call, prevention of international child abduction. Samoa to reopen international borders in August - ZB Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Although there have been no major accidents involving the ferry service linking Upolu and Savaii, vessels are sometimes overloaded. 2023-02-27 Samoa's Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa has announced the plan to reopen Samoa's international borders to international travellers from August/September this year. There is one overseas treatment center or Behavior Modification Facility operating in Samoa. Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers. United States Embassy Samoa. 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. International Borders to open in August says Samoa Prime Minister The accident rate then dropped sharply, but soon rose to . In late 2019, Samoa suffered a measles epidemic. 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. financial planning companies in bangalore Search. When these borders open, I'm going home #SAMOA #FYP #homeoswh Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. Coronavirus - Tonga travel advice - GOV.UK Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata'afa. Emotional reunions expected as Samoa's borders reopen next week - ZB It's a possibility that travelers will have to show a negative test to enter the country. 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. He said he would make a formal announcement about the government's plans "soon.". Enroll inSmart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)to receive security updates. Most buses and taxis do not have ramps to accommodate wheelchairs. For more information see Requirement for Proof of COVID-19 Vaccination for Air Passengers. Telephone. PRC testing is no longer widely available. Most major hotels, restaurants, and cafes are actively restructuring their facilities to accommodate persons with disabilities. Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata'afa announced on Monday major changes to Samoa's State of Emergency orders. Samoas Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa addresses the UN Human Rights Council in a session for her countrys Universal Periodic Review, 4 November, 2021. Decorate your laptops, water bottles, notebooks and windows. While in Samoa, individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation very different from in the United States. 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. 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. International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act (ICAPRA), Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Visitors indicating they have tested HIV positive will be subject to questioning by a health professional upon entry. Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website, and the NGA broadcast warnings. To avoid injury from shifting vehicles, you should ride only in the passenger compartment, not on the automobile deck during the crossing. Currently 7 percent have received their first shot of the two-dose AstraZeneca vaccine. In an announcement overnight, Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata'afa has confirmed Samoa will welcome international travellers into the country from 1st August 2022. Samoa had previously announced it would likely reopen in 'August or September.'. Samoa Tourism continues to work towards safe border re-opening In many areas, tap water is not potable. Photo / Getty Images Tumuauatasi Matafeo was in Samoa in March, 2020, when Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern made the. 05 March 2023, 4:00AM. Find information on dual nationality, prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites. (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. To avoid being swept in, you should not approach too closely and should never stand between the opening of the blowhole and the sea. Major hotels and some restaurants and stores accept major credit cards (Visa, Master Card, and American Express). The CDC's latest guidance on international travel for vaccinated people can be foundhere. Samoa Tourism Authoritys acting CEO, Pativaine Petaia-Tevita, said the tourism and hospitality industry is excited to get Samoa back on the radar as a must-visit destination, particularly as worldwide travel restrictions continue to ease and traveller confidence grows. Urban roads in Apia and the main roads circumnavigating and crossing the island are generally kept in fair condition, although bumps and potholes are common. 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 . You certainly wont miss the new wildlife ambulance when its out on the road! Samoa to reopen borders from August | RNZ News Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Could video game skills help you get a job? "Cabinet considered the plan for reopening of our international borders. The most recent data shows that almost 93 per cent of Samoas population aged 18 and over has been fully vaccinated. #samoa # . Visit the website of theSamoa Tourism Authorityfor road safety information. Fines may be given to individuals, businesses and organizations who do not comply with the governments COVID restrictions. In announcing the further lifting of Level 2 restrictions, the Prime Minister said this would include the, "opening of [] The Emergency Operations Center shall continue to be activated to coordinate response efforts. U.S. citizens have lodged a large number of complaints about unethical business practices. American Samoa Borders Open Stickers | Redbubble A veterinarian from Cayman Islands was in Samoa for the last two weeks to help the By Fuimaono Lumepa Hald Contact | Samoan authorities have laid out their Covid-19 vaccination plans, listing people who will receive the incoming Astra Zeneca vaccine by consent. Mask usage in American Samoa is recommended in public spaces, enclosed environments and public transportation. We now advise you to exercise normal safety precautions. Dosing info - Hep A. Samoa finally announces border re-opening! - Travel Weekly Copyright 2023 Osini Faleatasi Inc. dba Samoa News | All Rights Reserved, Samoa borders will open once eligible population fully vaccinated. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. Samoa to reopen borders from August - Otago Daily Times Online News Travelers are advised to review their immunity status prior to arrival. 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) Enjoy unlimited access to all our articles on any device + free trial to e-Edition. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Bars in American Samoa are . American Samoa Borders Open Coffee Mugs for Sale | Redbubble The last 12 Covid-19 samples from Samoa sent to New Zealand for testing have all returned negative results. Japan and Thailand will both drop testing requirements from the start of next month. The changes include reopening schools, amended business hours and plans to open Samoa's international borders. and approved by the Cabinet at its meeting Monday afternoon. Uncle jailed 13 years for raping sisters kids. Non-citizen U.S. nationals will need a visitor permit before travelling to Samoa. An uncle who has been convicted of sexual offenses against his sisters children By Joyetter Feagaimaalii-Luamanu The Crimes Ordinance 1961 and the more recent Crimes Act 2013, which came into effect in May 2013, criminalize same-sex acts. Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water. IMPORTANT INFORMATION - ENTRY REQUIREMENTS, How to Create the Best Samoa Family Holiday, The Best Samoan Themed Books To Read On Holiday, The Difference Between Samoa & American Samoa, Your Guide to the Islands of Savai'i and Upolu, The Most Stunning Waterfalls You'll Find in Samoa, Permit Services Ministry of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (mpmc.gov.ws), Register here if you don't have an account, a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended stay, visas for the next country of destination, sufficient funds to support themselves (while in Samoa). 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. While rare, violent assaults, including sexual assaults, have occurred in Samoa. See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas. 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. Due to poor and deteriorating road conditions, night driving on unlit rural roads can be dangerous and should be avoided if possible. Source: RNZ Pacific 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. 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 . Restaurants in American Samoa are open with restrictions. 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. As international travel begins to take shape again, Samoa has been striving to ensure critical components of our travel-ready toolkit are in place. Samoan customs authorities may enforce strict regulations about importing or exporting items such as firearms, fruits, pets and other animals, and drugs. Parents may also contact the. updated: 10 Jul 2020 Belarus American Samoa specific information: Belgium updated: 08 Mar 2022 Taumeasina Island Resort, where memories are made. Many of the new multi-story buildings provide ramps and elevators, but older public buildings do not. 4 sizes available. Samoa International Travel Information - United States Department of State Health boss Leausa Take Naseri says borders will re-open only when 98 percent of the eligible population has been vaccinated against Covid-19. and see the Ministrys recent vaccination update. 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. See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details. Tonga Travel Advice & Safety | Smartraveller Tonga's government has delayed plans to reopen its border to New Zealand. Consider hiring a private nurse or having family spend the night with the patient, especially a minor child. Are U.S. citizens required to quarantine? Samoa Latest update Still current at: 26 February 2023 Updated: 11 January 2023 Latest update:We've reviewed our advice for Samoa. Featuring DJs, live performances, drag queens and more, Pride Village is the place to be this weekend! Cruise ship passengers need not apply. 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. You can opt-out at any time. Orders were recommended by the National Emergency Operation Centre (N.E.O.C.) Another supply of Pfizer vaccines arrived from New Zealand in the weekend, and this would assist with the vaccination roll-out for the 5 to 11 age group in Savaii. Samoa sets vaccination target for re-opening border | RNZ News June 18, 2020 - The American Samoa Department of Health announced all returning travelers need to get a Medical Clearance within 3 days of arrival from Samoa Ministry of Health. List any local resources that can provide additional useful information. Schools open on Monday 4 May 2020, until further notice. Any U.S. citizen or non-citizen U.S. national has the right to contact a representative from the U.S. Embassy. Police in Apia generally respond quickly to incidents. Valasi Tafito Selesele told the Samoa Observer that the latest amendments to the State of Emergency Orders was only to start the conversation. Fiame said Samoa's high vaccination rate was critical in Cabinet's decision on when to open the borders. You should remain aware of your surroundings, lock your doors at night, and do not leave your belongings unattended. 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. American Samoa closed its borders in March. Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Samoa are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. Samoa will reopen its borders to international travellers from August. Ph: +684 6335919 Can I travel to Samoa? Travel Restrictions & Entry Requirements for Seven people (and one dog) were injured as a result of the severe turbulence. Visit theU.S. Department of State COVID-19 Answers Portal. Matafele Samoa sets to reopen its borders to international travellers Before that, Samoa would welcome the arrival of Samoan citizens and foreign contractors from this month. The footing around the mouths of most blowholes is very slippery. Samoa Tourism Authority - Corporate Website Articles What an honour to receive this award at Taumeasina Island Resort. The last 12 Covid-19 samples from Samoa sent to New Zealand for testing have all returned negative results. Samoa Airways | Flight Bookings From Samoa to NZ & Australia Travelers must have a valid passport and onward/return ticket to enter Samoa. However this morning he warned it was highly unlikely air travel in and out of the country would be opened soon. Stranded in the U.S., American Samoans are unable to go home Canadians can visit American Samoa without an entry permit or visa for a period of up to 30 days. 'I've done it all' - Sir Rod Stewart on getting older and staying fit. "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. Verify this information with the SamoanOverseas Missionbefore you travel. Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter American Samoa without restrictions. Blowholes:Samoa has numerous blowholes (lava tubes open to the sea where wave action produces often spectacular geysers). If you have a COVID-19 related question, call Samoa's COVID-19 helpline at 8006440. Samoa looks to open doors | The Pacific Advocate Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Samoa. Orders that lifted the ban on mass gatherings. You can travel to Germany for all travel purposes, including tourism and visits, without restrictions, and e ntry requirements fare the same for all travelers, regardless of COVID-19 vaccination status. Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Samoa should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts. 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. For more information visit the Government of Samoa website. 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. 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. Emergency. 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. In January 2022, Samoa reported several cases in managed isolation among passengers from an . Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments. Some taxis are unlicensed, so you should use care in choosing a taxi and driver. Side streets tend to be gravel or dirt and their condition varies considerably, particularly during the rainy season when ruts and bumps develop. Terms & Conditions | American Samoa closed its borders in March. Stranded residents are Vaccination Roll-Out Commendable 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. Actions to Take For the most recent information on what you can do to reduce your risk of contracting or . Travel advice and advisories for American Samoa Traffic is particularly hazardous for the disabled in rural areas that have no footpaths and sidewalks. Weekly flights to and from Australia continue. Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients. Australia says it is sending fresh batches of Covid-19 vaccine doses to Fiji and Timor-Leste. Tonga - Latest News, Travel regulations, Coronavirus regulations Pago Pago, American Samoa 96799 For information about tropical cyclone preparedness, visit our, For information about all types of natural disasters, visit the. Infants 6 to 11 months old traveling internationally should get 1 dose of measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine before travel. Travellers must complete the arrival health declaration form prior to landing in. Cambodia reopened its borders to international tourism in November 2021. 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. Tongan borders are closed to entry to all foreign nationals, except if authorisation is granted by the relevant Tongan government authorities. 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. PMN Samoa producer Lorenzo Kaisara says the Samoa Tourism Authority's tagline for the reopening is perfect. 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. 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. Create your very own adventure in beautiful Samoa! 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. Visit Samoan Government and/or Samoa Ministry of Health for the most up-to-date information in Samoa. Dosing info - Hep B. Thailand and Singaporedropped its testing requirements late last month andFijidropped it early this month. Entry and borders Tonga's borders fully reopened on 27th September 2022. From 22nd September 2022, COVID-19 test and vaccination requirements were removed and no longer apply for travel and entry. You can cancel anytime. Before that, Samoa would welcome the arrival of Samoan citizens and foreign contractors from this month. Something we love to see! Recommended Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome. Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). Persons with disabilities have easy access to medical facilities. Before that, Samoa would welcome the arrival of Samoan citizens and foreign contractors from this month. Buses are slow, crowded, uncomfortable, undependable, and rarely used by visitors. 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. Samoa Ministry of Health Covid-19 vaccination advisory, 6 May 2021. For further information on immigrant visas please visit the U.S. Consulate in Auckland. Photo: Samoa MoH. Alerts and Messages for U.S. 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. If your guess was that the woman in the featured image snagged the job then youd be spot on. Coronavirus - Samoa travel advice - GOV.UK Roads in Samoa often traverse small streams. Financial transactions:Some businesses in Apia, especially those frequented by tourists, do accept credit cards, but many do not, including gas stations. 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. 04 March 2023, 8:46PM. Assistance for U.S. Citizens. Full travel advice: Local laws. Qantas has gone full Malcolm Turnbull and is on the jobs and growth kick. July 2, 2020. Are there COVID-related entry requirements for U.S. citizens? Samoa's borders are likely to remain closed for the rest of the year, as health authorities set a Covid-19 vaccination target. The U.S. territory, 2,600 miles from Hawaii, shut down its borders in March to commercial flights to prevent . You should exercise extreme caution when fording these streams, which can become swollen and dangerous with little warning. Stray dogs:In Apia, and in many villages, stray dogs wander the streets. 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. Photo: Samoa Government. All nationalities traveling to Samoa can apply for a 90-day Visitor Permit on arrival using the arrival card. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. Fagatogo, Maoputasi Some family-based beach accommodations in the outer villages are also working to provide accessibility for disabled persons. Advertising | The Prime Minister also confirmed the latest statistics on vaccination in the country. 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.