Living in Samoa: the ultimate expat guide

Samoa maintains a relatively straightforward immigration policy for nationals of many countries, including most Western nations. Entry procedures are simple compared to other Pacific destinations, though long-term residence options remain limited and require careful planning.

Visitor Permit: Your gateway

All travelers automatically receive a Visitor Permit upon arrival at Faleolo International Airport, free of charge with no advance application needed. This permit allows stays of 60 to 90 days depending on nationality and immigration officer discretion. Requirements include a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date, proof of onward travel (return or continuation ticket), and evidence of sufficient funds for your stay (bank statements covering the past three months are typically accepted).

The visa waiver agreement between Samoa and the European Union, signed May 28, 2015 and ratified December 15, 2015, facilitates entry for EU nationals. No criminal background check is required on arrival, though a health certificate confirming you pose no public health risk may be requested in certain cases.

Extended stay options

For stays beyond the initial Visitor Permit period, several pathways exist. The Temporary Resident Permit targets individuals seeking to extend their stay for specific purposes (family, business, study). Applications must be submitted to the Ministry of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, which reviews cases individually. Processing times can stretch to several weeks, so plan well ahead.

The Permanent Resident Permit represents the most stable but hardest-to-obtain option. Eligibility criteria typically include substantial investment in the local economy, marriage to a Samoan national, or significant contribution to national development. Samoan authorities remain highly selective with permanent residency grants.

Working legally in Samoa

Any employment exceeding 3 months requires a Foreign Employee Employment Permit (FEEP), issued by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Labor. This permit is mandatory even for short-term renewable contracts. Samoan employers must usually initiate the application and demonstrate that no qualified local candidate is available for the position. The approval process takes several weeks on average and involves administrative fees that vary by employment duration and type.

For current information on visa procedures and work permits, consult the official Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade website. Always verify requirements specific to your situation before traveling, as regulations can change without notice.

Samoa's job market reflects its island economy and ongoing transition toward service-based industries. With an unemployment rate of 9.75% in 2023, gradually declining in recent years, the country offers a stable but limited professional environment for expats. Opportunities concentrate mainly in specialized sectors where international skills are valued.

Job market overview

The Samoan economy rests on three main pillars. Agriculture still employs 30% of the workforce, focusing on taro, coconut, and noni (a fruit with medicinal properties). Wholesale and retail trade accounts for 18.6% of jobs, while public administration represents 8.7%. The services sector now dominates with approximately 50% of the workforce and nearly two-thirds of GDP.

Average monthly net salary stands at WST 1,674 (around USD 598), a modest figure reflecting local living costs. The minimum wage increased to WST 4.00 per hour as of July 1, 2024 (up from WST 3.00), applying to both public and private sectors. Gender disparities persist, with female unemployment at 7.8% versus 3.5% for males (2022). Youth unemployment reaches 13.4%, a major development challenge.

Growing sectors for expats

Tourism offers the most dynamic and accessible opportunities for foreign professionals. Representing 25% of GDP with approximately 132,000 visitors in 2013, this sector regularly seeks hotel managers, specialized guides, tourism marketing experts, and international chefs. Skills in hospitality management and sustainable tourism development are particularly valued.

Offshore financial services provide interesting prospects for qualified professionals. Samoa has developed an attractive framework for International Companies (see taxation section), drawing service firms that recruit accountants, legal consultants, and international compliance experts.

The agriculture and fishing sector, generating 90% of exports (fish, coconut oil, noni products, taro), occasionally hires agronomists, aquaculture experts, and export logistics specialists. International development organizations present on the ground also employ technical experts for temporary assignments.

Starting a business

The entrepreneurial environment remains accessible for foreign investors, particularly in international services. Offshore company formation enjoys significant tax advantages (see taxation section). For local operations, registration procedures go through the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Labor, with relatively straightforward processes though often requiring local legal assistance.

Here's a snapshot of key employment data:

Sources: International Labour Organization, Numbeo

Employment conditions

Employment contracts may be written in Samoan or English based on employee preference, offering flexibility for expats. The standard probation period extends 3 months. Termination notice varies by tenure: 1 month for employees with over one year of service, and 3 months for permanent staff with more than one year.

Severance pay is calculated progressively. No compensation is due for under one year of employment. Beyond that, employees receive 4 weeks' salary plus 2 additional weeks per year of service, capped at 48 weeks. These protections offer relative security in an economy where formal employment remains limited.

Samoa's tax system stands out for its relative simplicity and notable advantages for certain international business activities. While the country applies standard rates comparable to other Pacific nations for tax residents, it offers attractive provisions for offshore companies that have built its reputation as a business-friendly jurisdiction.

Personal income tax

Samoa operates a progressive tax system for personal income. The first WST 15,000 of annual income (approximately USD 5,360) is completely tax-exempt, providing significant relief for lower earners. Above this threshold, progressive rates apply with a maximum marginal rate of 27% on higher brackets. This rate remains moderate compared to many Western countries where top brackets often exceed 40%.

The distinction between residents and non-residents determines taxation scope. Tax residents are taxed on worldwide income, including earnings from abroad. Non-residents are only taxed on Samoa-sourced income. This distinction is crucial for expats maintaining income streams in their home countries.

Corporate taxation: A dual regime

Samoan companies operating locally face a standard corporate tax rate of 27% on profits. This rate applies to resident companies conducting business within the territory.

The International Company (IC) regime represents Samoa's major tax advantage. These structures enjoy complete tax exemption (0% rate) on offshore profits. To qualify, an IC must meet three cumulative conditions: ownership by non-residents, conducting activities exclusively outside Samoa, and generating income from sources external to Samoan territory. This regime attracts consulting firms, financial services companies, and international trading operations.

VAGST: Value-added tax

Samoa introduced the Value Added Goods and Services Tax (VAGST) in 2018, the local equivalent of VAT, at a standard rate of 15%. This tax applies to most goods and services provided within Samoan territory. Businesses with annual turnover exceeding WST 130,000 (approximately USD 46,430) must register with the Ministry of Revenue and collect this tax.

Social security contributions

The Samoa National Provident Fund (SNPF) functions as a capitalization-based retirement system. Contributions are split equally: 7% of gross salary from the employee and 7% from the employer, totaling 14%. A notable benefit: employee contributions are tax-deductible, reducing taxable income.

Withholding taxes and special levies

The Samoan system includes withholding taxes on several payment types to non-residents. Dividends face a 12% withholding, interest at 10%, and royalties at 15%. These rates may be reduced if Samoa has concluded a tax treaty with the recipient's country of residence.

An excise tax applies to certain products including alcohol, tobacco, and fuel, at varying rates by category. Foreign residents owning real estate pay an annual property tax, with amounts varying by cadastral value and location.

The Ministry of Revenue handles all tax collection and provides online resources to facilitate procedures. Consulting a local accountant is recommended to optimize your tax situation, particularly when setting up offshore structures or dealing with multiple income sources.

Samoa's healthcare system combines a public network accessible free of charge to residents and private facilities mainly concentrated in the capital. For expats, understanding this dual system is essential to ensure appropriate care, as medical infrastructure remains limited and medical evacuations to New Zealand or Australia may be necessary for complex cases.

Public healthcare network

The Ministry of Health manages a network of public facilities offering free care to residents. Tupua Tamasese Meaole National Hospital in Apia serves as the country's referral hospital with approximately 300 beds. It provides emergency services, general surgery, maternity, and pediatrics. While infrastructure is functional, technology lags behind Western standards.

Outside Apia, the network includes several district hospitals and health centers scattered across rural areas. These facilities handle primary care and basic emergencies but systematically refer serious cases to the capital. Wait times can be significant for specialist consultations and non-urgent procedures.

Private healthcare options

The private sector, though modest, offers alternatives with shorter wait times and better comfort. Motootua Private Hospital in Apia provides general and specialist consultations, laboratory tests, and minor surgical procedures. Apia Medical Clinic and Samoa Medical Clinic offer quality general practice and dental care.

Private sector fees vary considerably. A general consultation costs between WST 50-100 (USD 18-36), specialist consultation WST 100-200 (USD 36-71). Standard blood tests run WST 50-150, and imaging exams (X-rays, ultrasounds) WST 100-300.

International health insurance: Essential for expats

No expat should settle in Samoa without comprehensive international health insurance that critically includes medical evacuation coverage. This clause is vital because many serious conditions or accidents require transfer to Auckland (New Zealand) or Sydney (Australia), with costs potentially reaching tens of thousands of dollars.

Recommended insurance covers local hospitalizations, private consultations, medications, and crucially, medical repatriation. Annual premiums range from USD 1,700 to 4,500 depending on age, health status, and coverage extent. Some insurers offer Pacific-specific plans that automatically include evacuations to Australia or New Zealand.

Pharmacies and medications

Pharmacies concentrate in Apia, with a few branches in districts. Basic medications are generally available, but specialized treatments may be out of stock. Prices remain reasonable for generics. Bringing several months' supply of chronic medications is strongly advised, accompanied by prescriptions translated into English.

Health risks and precautions

Samoa experiences periodic dengue fever outbreaks, particularly during the wet season. In July 2025, an outbreak led to temporary school closures. Prevention relies on mosquito repellents and bed nets. No widely available dengue vaccine exists.

Tap water isn't potable in all areas. Stick to bottled water or filter local water. Diarrheal illnesses remain common, especially among newcomers. Careful attention to food hygiene (washed fruits and vegetables, well-cooked meats) is essential.

The World Health Organization and Ministry of Health regularly publish health bulletins. For current information on recommended vaccinations before travel, consult your doctor or an international vaccination center.

Samoa's education system blends New Zealand colonial heritage with Polynesian cultural specificities. For expat families, choosing between integration into the local system or international schooling largely depends on planned stay duration, children's ages, and future academic plans.

The Samoan education system

Education in Samoa follows a cycle inspired by the New Zealand model. Primary Education spans 8 years, ages 5 to 13, followed by Secondary Education lasting 5 years. Instruction occurs primarily in Samoan in early years, with gradual transition to English in secondary school. This linguistic shift can pose major challenges for non-Samoan-speaking expat children.

Public schools are free but teaching standards vary significantly between urban and rural establishments. Infrastructure remains basic in many schools, with overcrowded classes and limited educational equipment. Some private local schools, often run by religious organizations, offer better supervision but remain focused on the Samoan curriculum.

Higher education

The National University of Samoa (NUS), located in Apia, represents the country's main higher education institution. Founded in 1984, it enrolls approximately 2,500 students and offers programs in science, commerce, education, arts, and social sciences. Degrees awarded (Bachelor's, Master's) are recognized across the Pacific region. Annual tuition fees range from WST 3,000-6,000 (approximately USD 1,070-2,140) depending on program.

For internationally recognized higher education, most young Samoans and expats turn to New Zealand or Australian universities. The National University of Samoa nevertheless offers a respectable local alternative for certain disciplines.

International and bilingual schools

International school options remain extremely limited. Samoa College, located in Apia, ranks among the country's best secondary establishments with quality English-language instruction. Though technically a local school, it welcomes many expat children through its bilingual program and higher academic standards.

A few private establishments offer partially international curricula, but none provides complete programs like IB (International Baccalaureate) or British IGCSE. Families with children approaching high school age often must consider boarding schools in New Zealand or Australia—an expensive but sometimes unavoidable solution for maintaining international academic continuity.

Costs and enrollment

Tuition fees at the few private schools accepting expat children range from WST 2,000-8,000 (USD 715-2,860) annually, depending on institution and level. This typically excludes mandatory uniforms, school supplies, extracurricular activities, and transportation.

Enrollment generally occurs in January for the school year beginning in February. Contacting schools several months ahead is recommended, as places are limited. Required documents usually include previous years' report cards, birth certificate, vaccination proof, and parents' residence permit.

For families considering schooling in Samoa, a preliminary visit to establishments is essential. Expat forums and local social networks provide excellent resources for obtaining recent feedback from other expat parents.

Samoa's property market is characterized by its small size and the predominance of customary land tenure, which complicates property ownership for foreigners. Renting remains the preferred option for expats, with supply concentrated in Apia and immediate surroundings. Prices stay reasonable compared to Western standards, though quality and amenities vary considerably.

Types of available housing

Housing in Apia and urban areas falls into several categories. Colonial-style wooden houses, often situated on Apia's hillsides with harbor views, offer charm but require regular maintenance in the humid climate. Expect WST 1,500-3,000 (USD 535-1,070) monthly for a well-maintained 2-3 bedroom house.

Modern apartments remain rare but are gradually developing. These units, usually in small recent buildings, offer WST 800-2,000 (USD 285-715) monthly for an equipped 2-bedroom with air conditioning. These properties particularly attract single expats or couples without children.

Beachfront villas represent the high end of the rental market. Located mainly on Upolu's south coast, they offer exceptional settings but with rents between WST 3,000-6,000 (USD 1,070-2,140) monthly. These properties often include gardens, direct beach access, and multiple bedrooms.

Expat-preferred neighborhoods

The Vaiala district, east of Apia, concentrates many expats thanks to proximity to shops, schools, and government offices. Rents range from WST 1,200-2,500 (USD 430-895) for a family house. Beach access is limited but infrastructure is adequate.

Vailima, situated in the hills south of Apia, offers a verdant, cooler setting thanks to elevation. This quiet residential area attracts families, with rents between WST 1,500-3,000. The winding access road can be challenging during heavy rains.

Coastal areas like Matautu or the airport sector combine accessibility with natural surroundings. Prices range from WST 1,000-2,000 depending on sea proximity and property condition.

Rental procedures

Housing searches proceed mainly through word-of-mouth, expat Facebook groups, and a few local agents. Online listings remain underdeveloped. A security deposit equivalent to 1 or 2 months' rent is standard, along with first month's payment at lease signing.

Leases typically run 6 months to 1 year, renewable. Most landlords accept English-language contracts. Checking property condition before signing and documenting (photos) any existing defects is crucial to avoid disputes upon departure. Repairs generally fall to the landlord, though responsiveness varies by owner.

Utilities and amenities

Electricity runs at 230V with Type I (Australian) plugs. Power outages occur regularly, particularly during cyclone season. A generator can prove useful for isolated dwellings. Average monthly electricity for a family of four ranges WST 150-300 (USD 54-107).

Potable water isn't guaranteed everywhere. Urban area homes generally connect to public networks, but a filtration system is recommended. In rural zones, cisterns collect rainwater. Monthly water costs remain modest, around WST 30-60.

Internet is available through several providers (Digicel, Bluesky) with variable speeds. A fiber subscription in Apia costs WST 80-150 (USD 29-54) monthly for acceptable connection. In rural areas, only 4G is available, with uneven coverage.

Buying property: Nearly impossible

Real estate purchase by foreigners faces the obstacle of Samoan customary land tenure. Approximately 80% of land belongs to families (aiga) under the communal system and cannot be sold. Only a few parcels held in freehold (full ownership) are theoretically accessible to non-residents, but procedures are complex and often require government approval. Long-term leases (30-99 years) constitute an alternative but remain rare and legally complicated.

Preparing a move to this remote Pacific archipelago demands meticulous organization due to geographical isolation and limited logistics infrastructure. Distance, sea transport timelines, and Samoan customs particularities require anticipating every step several months before departure.

Complete moving checklist

1. 6 months out: Request multiple quotes from international movers specializing in the Pacific. Compare sea options (6-10 weeks) and air freight (1 week but 3-5 times more expensive). Contact local freight forwarders to understand customs formalities.
2. 5 months out: Create a detailed inventory in English of all items to ship with estimated values, essential for customs declaration. Verify import restrictions (no perishable food items, restrictions on untreated wood, electronics subject to duties).
3. 4 months out: Subscribe to international transit insurance covering full value of belongings. Losses (humidity, breakage) are frequent on long sea crossings. Favor a full container (20 or 40 feet) over groupage to limit handling.
4. 3 months out: Begin sorting and packing. Samoa's humid climate requires avoiding shipping humidity-sensitive items without adequate protection (books, documents, textiles). Opt for airtight plastic containers rather than simple cardboard.
5. 2 months out: Obtain all necessary certificates, notably the customs duty exemption form for used personal effects (exemption if staying over 6 months). Scan all important documents and create secure digital backup copies in the cloud.
6. 6 weeks out: Confirm pickup date with the mover and delivery address in Samoa. Verify your chosen accommodation is accessible for a delivery truck (some rural roads pose problems). Inform the landlord of container reception date.
7. 1 month out: Prepare a survival suitcase with clothing, toiletries, medications, and essential documents for the first weeks, as containers can face delays. Plan for 2-3 weeks of complete self-sufficiency.
8. 2 weeks out: Finalize packing with the mover. Photograph each furniture item's condition to facilitate any claims. Apply clear labels to each box with contents and destination room.
9. 1 week out: Transfer necessary funds to a local Samoan account if already opened, or bring sufficient euros or US dollars in cash for initial expenses. Verify international bank cards are activated for Oceania region.
10. Upon arrival: Register with Samoa Customs Service with all import documents. Duties on used personal effects are generally exempt if you prove residence over 6 months. Be present or appoint someone for customs clearance and container reception.

Estimated costs

Sea shipping from Europe to Samoa for a standard volume (30-40 m³) costs between USD 4,500-9,000 depending on departure point and season. This includes pickup, sea transport, and home delivery but typically excludes customs duties and local clearance fees (budget an additional USD 350-700).

Air freight, reserved for urgent situations or very small volumes, charges approximately USD 9-17 per kilo, making this option prohibitive for a complete move. It suits only a few boxes of documents or sentimental valuables.

Practical tips

Prioritize sending treated wood or metal furniture, as ambient humidity quickly attacks unprotected materials. Electronic devices must be 230V compatible (adapters needed for Australian plugs). Bring large supplies of items unavailable locally: prescription medications, preferred cosmetics, English-language books for children, vehicle spare parts, etc.

Average transit time from Europe via the Pacific ranges 8-12 weeks including transshipments. Always plan a 4-week safety margin for unexpected delays (weather, port delays, extended customs procedures). Certain times of year (November-March, cyclone season) significantly extend timelines.

Life in Samoa offers a unique balance between natural discovery and Polynesian cultural immersion. Far from mass tourism, the archipelago invites authentic exploration where every activity reveals the deep connection between Samoans, their environment, and ancestral traditions. Leisure revolves around sea, land, and rich local cultural heritage.

Natural wonders and outdoor activities

The To Sua Ocean Trench, located at Lotofaga on Upolu's south coast, ranks among the Pacific's most spectacular natural sites. This 30-meter deep natural pool, carved in volcanic rock and fed by an underwater tunnel, offers an unforgettable swimming experience. Access is via a vertiginous wooden ladder, and the turquoise water contrasts beautifully with surrounding tropical gardens. Entry fee: approximately WST 20 (USD 7).

Waterfalls dot the mountainous interior. Togitogiga Falls in O Le Pupu-Pu'e National Park offer refreshing swimming in natural pools surrounded by rainforest. Afu Aau Falls in Savai'i and Papaseea Sliding Rocks combine cascades with natural slides, particularly popular with families.

Scuba diving and snorkeling reveal remarkably preserved coral reefs. Sites around Namua Island, Palolo Deep Marine Reserve, and Savai'i's coral gardens host sea turtles, manta rays, tropical fish, and occasionally harmless reef sharks. Dive centers in Apia offer discover dives (around WST 150) and trips for certified divers (WST 200-300 for 2 dives).

Cultural heritage and living traditions

Attending a fiafia, traditional Samoan performance, provides an essential cultural experience. These evenings combine warrior dances (ailao), graceful dances (siva), polyphonic singing, and fire-walking demonstrations. Several resorts organize weekly fiafias (fee: WST 60-100), but authentic versions during village celebrations remain most memorable.

The Robert Louis Stevenson Museum, housed in the Scottish writer's former residence at Vailima, delves into Samoa's colonial history. Stevenson lived his final years there until his death in 1894. The restored colonial mansion displays personal items, manuscripts, and period photographs. Entry: WST 20, guided tour recommended.

Local markets, particularly Fugalei Market in Apia (open early mornings Wednesday through Saturday), offer immersion in Samoan daily life. Find tropical fruits, freshly caught fish, local handicrafts (tapa, woven mats, wood carvings), and Samoan street food. Prices are negotiable with a smile.

Sports and physical activities

Rugby reigns supreme in Samoa, a true national religion. Watching a Manu Samoa (national team) test match at Apia Park Stadium provides an electric experience. Local village competitions occur every weekend and warmly welcome foreign spectators.

Hiking offers spectacular views, notably climbing Mount Vaea to Robert Louis Stevenson's tomb (about 1.5 hours round trip), or the Coastal Walk between deserted beaches and basalt cliffs. The trek to the volcanic crater in Savai'i represents a more challenging endeavor (full day).

Surfing attracts aficionados worldwide to Upolu's renowned breaks. Spots at Boulders, Coconuts, and Salani offer world-class waves, particularly during dry season (May-October). Most spots are accessible via resorts that control access to limit crowds.

Social and community life

Social life in Samoa revolves around the village and church, pillars of Samoan society. Sundays are sacred, with morning church services followed by elaborate family meals. Shops close and noisy activities are prohibited. Integration requires respecting these traditions and participating in community events (weddings, funerals, inaugurations) to which you'll regularly be invited.

Expats gather at a few Apia bars and restaurants: the Yacht Club for maritime atmosphere, Giordano's for Italian cuisine, or Bistro Tatau for local-international fusion. Social networks (Facebook groups "Expats in Samoa") facilitate meetings and practical information sharing.

Samoa's cost of living sits well below Western standards for many expense categories, though imported products and specialized services sometimes reach equivalent or higher prices due to geographical remoteness. Expats generally enjoy comfortable purchasing power, especially those earning in hard currencies or working for international organizations.

Local food (fruits, vegetables, fish, taro) remains very affordable at markets, while imported products from Australia or New Zealand (dairy, processed meats, alcohol, Western hygiene products) cost 50-100% more than in Western countries. Local restaurants offer hearty meals for WST 15-30 (USD 5-11), while Western-style establishments charge WST 50-80 (USD 18-29) per main course.

Housing typically represents the most variable expense depending on chosen standard and location. In Apia, expect WST 800-3,000 (USD 285-1,070) monthly, versus WST 400-1,500 (USD 145-535) in rural zones. Utilities (electricity, water, internet) add WST 250-450 (USD 90-160) monthly depending on consumption.

Detailed monthly budget for a single person

Here's a realistic estimate of monthly expenses for a single expat living in Apia with standard comfort:

Sources: Numbeo (June 2025), field surveys

Detailed monthly budget for a family of 4

For a couple with two school-age children in Apia, expenses increase significantly with addition of school fees, larger accommodation, and increased food consumption:

Sources: Numbeo (June 2025), field surveys

Comparisons and observations

These budgets exclude international health insurance (add USD 1,700-4,500/year per person), nor annual travel to home countries or Oceania (expect USD 1,700-2,800 for round-trip Samoa-North America/Europe flights). The local average salary of WST 1,674 (USD 598) appears clearly insufficient for an expat, underscoring the importance of negotiating an expat package or maintaining external income.

Seasonal variations mainly affect imported fruit and vegetable prices. Cyclone season (November-April) sometimes causes temporary shortages and price spikes. Building reserves of non-perishable products proves wise.