281 Likes, TikTok video from Jen (@ft.jenvjva): "When these borders open, I'm going home #SAMOA #FYP #homeoswheretheheartis #685baby #beautifulsamoa #samoatiktok685". A four-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended for travel on secondary roads. 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. Samoa will reopen its borders to international travellers from August. Fiame made the announcement on Monday night while advising of major changes to the current State of Emergency (S.O.E.) The footing around the mouths of most blowholes is very slippery. Some HIV/AIDS entry restrictions exist for visitors to, and foreign residents of, Samoa. A referendum in 1955 overwhelmingly rejected a change to RHT, but, a few years later, the government ordered it and it occurred on Sunday, 3 September 1967 at 5 am. Rapid antigen tests are readily available at public hospitals and private clinics. Dosing info - Hep A. Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter American Samoa without restrictions. 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. Sign up for email alerts as countries begin to open - choose the destinations you're interested in so you're in the know. 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. Photo: Samoa Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trader. It's a possibility that travelers will have to show a negative test to enter the country. Valasi Tafito Selesele told the Samoa Observer that the latest amendments to the State of Emergency Orders was only to start the conversation. Results are generally available within 30 minutes. The Samoan government said that vaccination rates have been critical in the decision to reopen. Recommended in public spaces, enclosed environments and public transportation. In Samoa, driving under the influence could land you immediately in jail. All land borders between Cambodia and Vietnam, Thailand and Laos are now open. 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. Please exercise appropriate caution when you are walking, running, or riding a bike near stray dogs. Stay Informed: step.state.gov/step/. Tongan borders are closed to entry to all foreign nationals, except if authorisation is granted by the relevant Tongan government authorities. Non-citizen U.S. nationals will need a visitor permit before travelling to Samoa. PMN Samoa producer Lorenzo Kaisara says the Samoa Tourism Authority's tagline for the reopening is perfect. We advise: The Crimes Ordinance 1961 and the more recent Crimes Act 2013, which came into effect in May 2013, criminalize same-sex acts. Before that, Samoa would welcome the arrival of Samoan citizens and foreign contractors from this month. External links to other Internet sites should not be construed as an endorsement of the views or privacy policies contained therein. As international travel begins to take shape again, Samoa has been striving to ensure critical components of our travel-ready toolkit are in place. Samoas Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa addresses the UN Human Rights Council in a session for her countrys Universal Periodic Review, 4 November, 2021. Many of the new multi-story buildings provide ramps and elevators, but older public buildings do not. [READ MORE] Embassy Messages Alerts View Alerts and Messages Archive Quick Facts PASSPORT VALIDITY: Must be valid at the time of entry BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: One page required for entry stamp Major hotels and some restaurants and stores accept major credit cards (Visa, Master Card, and American Express). 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. You can cancel anytime. Create your very own adventure in beautiful Samoa! Task Force urged to ramp up media campaign to reach unvaccinated. Enjoy unlimited access to all our articles on any device + free trial to e-Edition. Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. 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. Visit theUnited States Embassy in Samoawebsitefor updated information. . Fines may be given to individuals, businesses and organizations who do not comply with the governments COVID restrictions. In January 2022, Samoa reported several cases in managed isolation among passengers from an . The most recent data shows that almost 93 per cent of Samoas population aged 18 and over has been fully vaccinated. | Samoa Ministry of Health Covid-19 vaccination advisory, 6 May 2021. Avoid walking alone after dark or in remote areas. Decorate your laptops, water bottles, notebooks and windows. Stranded residents are finally. 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. Official Web Portal of the Government of Samoa. Monday 2nd May 2022, Apia Samoa. Weekly flights to and from Australia continue. You should not approach or feed them; they can become aggressive in the presence of food or if they feel threatened. Tonga is a conservative country. Holidaymakers wanting to travel to Samoa once borders re-open will likely have to wait until 2022. Fiame noted the second dose for paediatric programme will commence this week with more vaccines donated by New Zealand. Travelers are advised to review their immunity status prior to arrival. Police in Apia generally respond quickly to incidents. Photo: Samoa Government. Business Hours Emergency Telephone:+685 21631 ext. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Samoa. High quality American Samoa Borders Open inspired Coffee Mugs by independent artists and designers from around the world. Fines may be given to individuals, businesses and organizations who do not comply with the governments COVID restrictions. Samoa has lifted all COVID-19 related travel restrictions. 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. for covid-19. Measles. See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details. Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter American Samoa without restrictions. As of Thursday night, 10,900 doses had reached 6200 men and 4700 women. The Emergency Operations Center shall continue to be activated to coordinate response efforts. 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). First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Samoa are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. Any U.S. citizen or non-citizen U.S. national has the right to contact a representative from the U.S. Embassy. Unique American Samoa Borders Open stickers featuring millions of original designs created and sold by independent artists. Enroll inSmart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)to receive security updates. Bars in American Samoa are . Samoan authorities have laid out their Covid-19 vaccination plans, listing people who will receive the incoming Astra Zeneca vaccine by consent. The Samoan Government has announced an official date for Samoa to reopen its borders to international travellers. 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. Samoa's borders are likely to remain closed for the rest of the year, as health authorities set a Covid-19 vaccination target. Parents may also contact the. Visit theSamoa Immigration websitefor Samoas most current visa information. PO Box 1313 Fancy some sun and sand that isn't in Australia? Copyright 2023 Osini Faleatasi Inc. dba Samoa News | All Rights Reserved, Samoa borders will open once eligible population fully vaccinated. Register here if you don't have an account. Most buses and taxis do not have ramps to accommodate wheelchairs. HIV/AIDS: Only minimal treatment is available in Samoa. Apia, Samoa. 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. Samoa continues under Alert Level 2 for two more weeks commencing midnight tonight until 17 May 2022. By entering your email address you're giving us permission to send you news and offers. Take care not to offend. At least 48 hours prior to your arrival, you must apply for and receive authorization from the Entry Permit Waiver Program. +(685) 21631 press 0 for the operator or extension 2222. Need help? Consider hiring a private nurse or having family spend the night with the patient, especially a minor child. Patients bear all costs for transfer to or between hospitals. and approved by the Cabinet at its meeting Monday afternoon. Fax: +684 6335929. Although there have been no major accidents involving the ferry service linking Upolu and Savaii, vessels are sometimes overloaded. 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. An uncle who has been convicted of sexual offenses against his sisters children By Joyetter Feagaimaalii-Luamanu Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata'afa announced on Monday major changes to Samoa's State of Emergency orders. If you have a COVID-19 related question, call Samoa's COVID-19 helpline at 8006440. 3 weather alerts in effect American Samoa closed its borders in March. For more information on ATM locations and banking services, visit theANZ Bankwebsite or theBSPwebsite. See our Road Safety page for more information. 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. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Resources for Travelers regarding specific issues in Samoa. Photo: Samoa Government Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata'afa announced on Monday major changes to Samoa's State of Emergency orders. You should be aware that vehicle safety regulations are rarely enforced, and traffic violations occur routinely. Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments. For more information visit the Government of Samoa website. To avoid being swept in, you should not approach too closely and should never stand between the opening of the blowhole and the sea. 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. There is one overseas treatment center or Behavior Modification Facility operating in Samoa. Samoa had previously announced it would likely reopen in 'August or September.'. Dress modestly and avoid public affection to avoid unwanted attention. +685 777 1776 Please leave a message and the Duty Officer will return your call. "Cabinet considered the plan for reopening of our international borders. Fagatogo, Maoputasi 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. In late 2019, Samoa suffered a measles epidemic. Cabinet approved the continuation of Level 2 (orange) for another two weeks effective on Tuesday midnight until 17 May, she said. Be aware of your surroundings. Print Subscription | 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). Normal Immigration requirements, as outlined below, apply. These standards may not be strictly enforced or meet the standards of similar facilities in the United States. All international cruise ships and yachts scheduled to arrive after 19 March 2020 will not be granted entry into Tonga until further notice. For Samoas border reopening, a series of developments and new processes have been put into place to ensure Samoa is ready for international arrivals. Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients. Consular services are only being offered via appointment. 04 March 2023, 8:46PM. Uncle jailed 13 years for raping sisters kids. 'I've done it all' - Sir Rod Stewart on getting older and staying fit. Entry and borders Tonga's borders fully reopened on 27th September 2022. Sexual assaults occur. In announcing the further lifting of Level 2 restrictions, the Prime Minister said this would include the, "opening of [] There are 15,600 doses remaining of the current allotment from the WHO backed Covax facility which must be used before the end of May. Some incidents have involved residential break-ins. 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. Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in the larger cities, with hospital-based care only available through government institutions, Medical tourism is a rapidly growing industry. Most major roads are tar-sealed, but secondary roads are predominantly dirt and gravel and may be rough and/or overgrown with vegetation. The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. All nationalities traveling to Samoa can apply for a 90-day Visitor Permit on arrival using the arrival card. First published by RNZ. Cambodia reopened its borders to international tourism in November 2021. Samoa Independent State of Samoa Travel Advisory October 24, 2022 Samoa - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions Exercise normal precautions in Samoa. 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. The country reported its second case on 27 November. Emergency. Travellers must complete the arrival health declaration form prior to landing in. Telephone: +685 21436 / 21631 / 21452 or 22696 Orders were recommended by the National Emergency Operation Centre (N.E.O.C.) Register or sign in to create events, jobs and access premium features. For more information visit the, U.S. Department of State COVID-19 Answers Portal, Fulbright Foreign Student Scholarship Announcement, U.S. Coast Guard Cutter William Hart patrols Samoa EEZ. Visitors indicating they have tested HIV positive will be subject to questioning by a health professional upon entry. Rapid antigen tests are readily available at public hospitals and private clinics. Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. "Heroic" flight attendant comes to the rescue as woman gives birth on Frontier Airlines flight, Register for duo, Air New Zealands new training and engagement hub and be in the draw to win some epic prizes. 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. With borders just open, now is the time to Visit Beautiful Samoa. Featuring DJs, live performances, drag queens and more, Pride Village is the place to be this weekend! Tonga cancelled all flights to the country in March . Mask usage in American Samoa is recommended in public spaces, enclosed environments and public transportation. Actions to Take Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata'afa announced on Monday major changes to Samoa's State of Emergency orders. Due to poor and deteriorating road conditions, night driving on unlit rural roads can be dangerous and should be avoided if possible. In an announcement overnight, Prime Minister Fiam Naomi Mataafa has confirmed Samoa will welcome international travellers into the country from 1 August 2022. Its the question on every Intrepid employees mind. Could video game skills help you get a job? Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad. Samoas Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa has announced the plan to reopen Samoas international borders to international travellers from August/September this year. Are U.S. citizens required to quarantine? . Privacy, Prime Minister, Fiame Naomi Mata'afa during the announcement Some taxis are unlicensed, so you should use care in choosing a taxi and driver. Samoa will open to citizens first in May before it welcomes international travellers in August. 05 March 2023, 4:00AM. Are there COVID-related entry requirements for U.S. citizens? 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. 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. Drivers should familiarize themselves with operating requirements and local traffic laws before operating a vehicle in. 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 . Internal Restrictions: *Travel in Samoa: A State of Emergency was declared on 20 March 2020. Amendments to quarantine conditions and the opening of borders for our neighbouring countries like Australia and Fiji as well as New Zealand. Recommended Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome. All international cruise ships and yachts will not be granted entry into Samoa. (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. Samoa joins several other countries that have recently opened their borders and dropped travel requirements. The pandemic has had a huge impact on Samoa's travel and tourism industry since its border closed in March 2020 and the country is eager to receive travellers who will aid in the island's . Samoa Latest update Still current at: 26 February 2023 Updated: 11 January 2023 Latest update:We've reviewed our advice for 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. Advertising | Side streets tend to be gravel or dirt and their condition varies considerably, particularly during the rainy season when ruts and bumps develop. 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. Its not all bad news, NCL is expecting to be sailing in clearer waters for the second half of 2023. 'I've done it all' - Sir Rod Stewart on getting older and staying fit. Samoa Ministry of Health Covid-19 vaccination advisory, 6 May 2021. The Samoan Government has announced it will be reopening its border to international travellers from August/September later this year. Other U.S. government agencies work with Samoa, some with offices in the Embassy and some throughout the country. United States Embassy Samoa. Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescription in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with little controls. The changes include reopening schools, amended business hours and plans to open Samoa's international borders. Vehicles should never enter a stream if the roadbed is not visible or if the waters depth is more than the vehicles clearance. 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. Before that, Samoa would welcome the arrival of Samoan citizens and foreign contractors from this month. Japan and Thailand will both drop testing requirements from the start of next month. Samoa's alert level 2 will be extended for another two weeks effective from midnight Tuesday until May 17. Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water. Leausa says the ministry is negotiating with New Zealand to secure vaccines for the remaining population. For emergency services in Samoa, dial 911. However, disabled travelers should clarify with the hotel what accommodations are available before they book. 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. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus warned about fresh Covid-19 waves during the week. Generally, hospital staffing is minimal overnight. Flights to Samoa currently operate direct from Auckland with Air New Zealand, Sydney/Brisbane with Qantas, Nadi (Fiji) and Honolulu (Hawaii) with Fiji Airways. We now advise you to exercise normal safety precautions. Critical to this decision are the current rates of our vaccination programme. (2) The Ministry of Education, Sports and Culture: . To avoid injury from shifting vehicles, you should ride only in the passenger compartment, not on the automobile deck during the crossing. Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website, and the NGA broadcast warnings. Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter American Samoa. Non-citizen U.S. nationals can apply for a visitors permit at the Samoa Consulate General office in Pago Pago, American Samoa: Consulate General Of Samoa Blowholes:Samoa has numerous blowholes (lava tubes open to the sea where wave action produces often spectacular geysers). Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips. U.S. citizens do not need a visa for stays of 90 days or less. Hepatitis B. 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). What an honour to receive this award at Taumeasina Island Resort. Visit theDepartment of State Covid-19 crisis pagefor the latest information. +685 21436 / 21631 / 21452 or 22696. Ironman competitor, Darren Young said he started wanting to be an Ironman because By Fuimaono Lumepa Hald The average cost is around WST 20 (USD 8); payment is not covered by the government. From 22 September 2022, Samoa's international borders are open to all following the removal of restrictions. Telephone. Particular care should be taken near Apias downtown bars and restaurants, where a number of violent incidents involving foreigners and Samoans have occurred.