Living in Samoa guide for expats

Samoa comprises two main islands: Savai'i and Upolu and four smaller islands. Savai'i is the larger island of the two but has just over 20% of the population. Upolu, on the other hand, is more developed, home to the majority of the population, as well as the country's capital ' the city of Apia ' and Faleolo International Airport.

The region's economy is based on agriculture, which employs almost two-thirds of the workforce with coconut and coconut oil being primary exports.

Samoa's total population is 195,743 people, most of them Samoans with some Europeans, Euronesians, and East Asians. A great number of Samoans live outside the country, specifically in Australia, New Zealand, or the United States. Samoans are often called 'the happy people' because of their welcoming character and friendly smiles.

Samoa has a very inviting tourist policy, and citizens of all countries are welcome to come here visa-free for 30 days. For residents of the Schengen Area, the permitted visa-free stay is 90 days.

When in Samoa, you are sure to find plenty of things to do with most of the activities taking place on the beach and in the sea. Though scuba diving is relatively new to the region, both islands, Savai'i and Upolu, have diving facilities letting visitors explore Samoa's vibrant marine life.

There are not many expats living in Samoa ' and those who do, mostly come from neighbouring New Zealand and Australia. Staying in the region for a long time can be a bit expensive, as most of the daily shopping items are shipped in and, thus, sold at elevated prices.