Samoa

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services. The Samoan Police Service is small and services provided may be more limited.

• Dial 911 for police, fire, and ambulance

Terrorism

Terrorists and their supporters may target U.S. citizens abroad.

Terrorists may target:

• Large public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants
• Places of worship
• Schools 
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation (subways, buses, trains, and commercial flights)

Crime

Stay aware of your surroundings, lock your doors at night, and do not leave your belongings unattended.

• Incidents of petty theft and robberies are common in Samoa. Some incidents have involved hotel and residential break-ins.
• Violent assaults, including sexual assaults, have occurred in Samoa. Remain alert near Apia’s downtown bars and restaurants. Some violent incidents involving foreigners and Samoans have occurred in that area. No specific groups have been targeted. 
• Police and emergency response agencies are understaffed and services may be limited.  Always dial 911 for emergency assistance. 
• Police presence outside of Apia is very limited. Local village authorities often manage public safety issues. Police response outside of Apia may not be as quick or reliable

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help. 

Common scams include: 

• Overcharging, especially for taxis, tours, or village and beach access fees.
• Informal “guides” demanding payment after unsolicited help.
• Occasional bank card or ATM fraud.

Agree on prices in advance, use reputable providers, and safeguard cash and cards.

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 911.

Review our information for Victims of Crime.  

The U.S. embassy or consulate can: 

• Replace a stolen or lost U.S. passport.
• Help you find medical care.
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during and after the local investigation.
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide information about the Samoa Victim Support Group. This group helps victims of crime in Samoa. You can contact them at +685-800-7874.
• 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.

Sexual assault and domestic violence 

• U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy for assistance. 
• U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy and local law enforcement for assistance. 

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States. 
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications.  
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks. 
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.

Drones

Drones are restricted in Samoa. 

• Check current rules with Samoan civil aviation authorities and obtain any required permissions before operating unmanned aircraft. 
• Get permission before flying drones over villages or private property.

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is not well regulated:

• Safety inspections for equipment and facilities are rare. 
• Dangerous areas and activities are not always marked with signs. 
• Staff may not be trained or certified. 
• If you get injured, you will likely need to travel to a major city for appropriate medical care. 
• First responders cannot reach remote areas in case of emergencies. 
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance. 
• Review our information on Travel Insurance. 

Adventure travel 

• Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tips for Adventure Travel.

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

• U.S. citizens must follow local laws. 
• If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.  
• Travelers who accidentally break local laws have been detained. Sometimes, this can be for a long time. They may also face criminal charges and even be convicted of a crime.
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Samoa seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.  

Drug offenses

• Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking drugs in Samoa are severe. Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and big fines.
• In Samoa, driving under the influence is a crime.

Arrest notification 

• If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy or consulate immediately.  

Detention conditions

• Detention facilities are basic and can be old and overcrowded.
• A detention facility may not provide you with essential medications or medical care. 

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations. 

• They may be illegal according to local laws.  
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety.  
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States.  

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods: 

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection 
• U.S. Department of Justice  

Faith-based travelers

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources:  

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

Same-sex sexual relations are illegal in Samoa, with prison terms of up to 7 years. The Crimes Ordinance of 1961 and the more recent Crimes Act of 2013 criminalize same-sex sexual relations.

• There is no recognition of same-sex relationships, marriage, or adoption by same-sex couples in Samoa.
• There are limited anti-discrimination laws in place
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers 

Travelers with accessibility needs

Some major hotels, restaurants, and cafes are renovated to accommodate people with disabilities. 

• Some family-based beach accommodations in outer villages are working to provide accessibility for guests with disabilities. 
• Many of the new multi-story buildings provide ramps and elevators, but older public buildings do not.
• Expect accessibility to be limited in rural areas.
• Blind travelers, wheelchair users, or others with mobility needs may have difficulty navigating in and around Apia. There are a limited number of stoplights and sidewalks. Most buses and taxis do not accommodate wheelchairs.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad.  

Women travelers  

Samoa is a religious and socially conservative country.

• Women are respected but are also expected to dress and act modestly, particularly in villages and around churches. 
• Foreign women, especially when traveling alone, may receive extra attention.
• Public displays of affection are not typical and may draw attention
• Review our information for Women Travelers. 
• Review our information on Marriage. 
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Human rights

• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

Health

Health resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Samoa Traveler Information
• CDC Medical Tourism information 
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Dengue Fever

Samoa experiences dengue fever outbreaks, which is transmitted by the Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitos. These mosquitoes typically bite 2-3 hours after dawn and at dusk.  Please be vigilant and take precautions to avoid exposure.

• Remain indoors or in a screened or air-conditioned area during peak biting period. 
• If outdoors, wear long-sleeved shirts, pants and hat.
• Mosquitos breed in standing water. Drain any standing water near your home (flowerpots, blocked gutters, animal water dishes).
• If outside during peak biting time, use insect repellants.

Emergency numbers

• Dial 911 for emergency medical services.  Dial 997 for police.
• If you have a non-Samoan number, dial +685-911(ambulance) or +685 997 (police) from your mobile phone.  

Ambulance services

• Ambulance services are not widely available. Training and response time of emergency responders may be poor. 
• Injured or very ill travelers might prefer to take a taxi or their own car to the nearest major hospital. This option can be faster than waiting for an ambulance.

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses abroad. Most U.S. plans do not. 

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is not free in Samoa. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• Most hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment. 
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.
• If you purchase supplemental insurance, you are responsible for seeking reimbursement from the insurance provider. Follow their instructions for filing claims. 

Vaccinations

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice 

Yellow fever 

• Required for travelers 1 year and older coming from certain countries in South America and Africa. This includes travelers who have a layover or airport stop longer than 12 hours in these at-risk countries . 
• Please review the Centers for Disease Control site for more information. 

Measles

• The CDC recommends vaccination for all travelers 1 year and older.  
• In late 2019, Samoa had a measles outbreak. Cases increased again in late 2025. Check that you are protected against measles before you go.  

Healthcare facilities 

Health facilities are available in Apia. It may be harder to find adequate health care in rural areas. Health care in Samoa may be below U.S. standards.

• Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies.  
• Hospitals and doctors often require payment upfront prior to service or admission. 
• U.S. citizens have filed many complaints about unethical business practices and substandard care.
• Generally, in hospitals only minimal staff is available overnight. Consider hiring a private nurse. Another option is to have family stay the night with the patient, especially a child.
• Patients must cover all costs for transfer to or between hospitals. 
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in larger cities.
• The U.S. embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Prescription medications 

Many over-the-counter medications and prescription medications available in the United States are not readily available in Samoa.

• Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. 
• Exercise caution when purchasing medication abroad. Pharmaceuticals are usually easy to buy with few controls. 
• Counterfeit medication is common and may not work, have the wrong strength, or have dangerous ingredients. You should buy medication with the help of a medical professional and from trusted places.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States. If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally. 

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States. 

For more information: 

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection 
• Food and Drug Administration

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and Surrogacy

There is limited access to assisted reproductive technology in Samoa. 

• Surrogacy is largely unregulated in Samoa with no clear legal protections for foreign intended parents. Surrogacy agreements may not be enforced by Samoan courts.

Water quality and food safety 

• In many areas, tap water is not safe to drink. 
• In some locations, tap water is not available every day.
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact.
• Many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. 
• You may want to request no ice in your drinks since it may be made using tap water. 

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad. 

• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page. 
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow. 

For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.

Transportation 

Road conditions and safety

Urban and main roads in Apia and across the island are generally in fair condition, although bumps and potholes are common.

• Most major roads are paved, but secondary roads are mostly dirt and gravel. They may be rough or overgrown with vegetation.
• A 4-wheel-drive or at least high clearance vehicle is recommended for travel on secondary roads.
• Vehicle safety regulations are rarely enforced. Traffic laws are enforced occasionally. 
• Traffic moves slowly with a general speed limit of 35 miles per hour on major roads. There are slower speed restrictions in villages. 
• Most gas stations are closed on Sundays.
• Side roads tend to be gravel or dirt. Their condition varies, especially during the rainy season when ruts and bumps develop.
• In rural areas, the roads may be in poor condition. This can make travel difficult.
• Rural roads are often narrow, winding, relatively steep, with no shoulders, and poor lighting. Please exercise increased caution when operating a vehicle in these areas.
• Dangerous flash flooding may occur on roadways.

Traffic laws  

If you have a U.S. driver’s license, you can purchase a temporary driving permit from your car rental company. This permit is required. It is good for up to 90 days.

• You may also get the temporary permit from the Samoa Tourism Information Center, Samoa Post, or the Samoa Land Transport Authority in Apia. 
• An international driving permit is not required.
• Samoan vehicles travel on the left side of the road.
• Always carry travel documentation and proof of car insurance. 
• Confirm what car insurance your car rental includes. 

Taxis and ride-shares

• Taxis are widely available.
• Some taxis are unlicensed. Only use taxis that are licensed.
• Ride-shares like Uber and Lyft are not currently operating in Samoa. 

Public and commercial transportation 

• Avoid buses. They are slow, crowded, unsafe, and unreliable.
• Rental cars are available, but there is limited roadside assistance.
• Visit the website of Samoa’s national tourist office and national authority responsible for road safety. 
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad. 

Aviation safety oversight 

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that Samoa’s Civil Aviation Authority meets international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA’s website includes more information on its assessment program.

Maritime travel

Mariners and passengers planning travel to Samoa should check the following:  

• U.S. Maritime Advisories
• U.S. Maritime Alerts 
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings 
• U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Commons

Weather and natural disasters

Weather conditions

Tropical cyclones and storms

• Tropical cyclones and severe storms hit Samoa from November to April. 
• Expect high winds, intense rain, coastal flooding, landslides, and potential infrastructure damage.
• Cyclones and severe storms can cause dangerous coastal conditions. These include storm surges and high tides. They lead to beach closures.

Earthquakes and tsunamis

• Earthquakes and tsunamis can hit Samoa at any time.

U.S citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.

Embassies and consulates