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) For more information on ATM locations and banking services, visit theANZ Bankwebsite or theBSPwebsite. 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. For more information visit the Government of Samoa website. First published by RNZ. 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. State.gov Country Information and Travel Advisory page. All of these efforts ensure we are in a top position to safely open borders to travellers, she said. Apia, Samoa Rapid antigen tests are readily available at public hospitals and private clinics. Taxis are widely available and used by Samoans and visitors alike. Samoa has secured enough vaccines for 40,000 people this year, a considerable shortfall on herd immunity target of 120,000 people. Dosing info - Hep A. 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. Fax: +684 6335929. Fiame announced the relaxed restrictions to the current State of Emergency such as: The National University of Samoa to resume classes as planned for this month. Tourism: The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Buses are slow, crowded, uncomfortable, undependable, and rarely used by visitors. Currently 7 percent have received their first shot of the two-dose AstraZeneca vaccine. Samoa had previously announced it would likely reopen in 'August or September.'. 281 Likes, TikTok video from Jen (@ft.jenvjva): "When these borders open, I'm going home #SAMOA #FYP #homeoswheretheheartis #685baby #beautifulsamoa #samoatiktok685". In late 2019, Samoa suffered a measles epidemic. 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. Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates. Visit theDepartment of Homeland Security websitefor the latest travel restrictions to the United States. Menu 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. You can opt-out at any time. Fiame said Samoa's high vaccination rate was critical in Cabinet's decision on when to open the borders. A further 55,000 doses are expected in the country by early June. Infants 6 to 11 months old traveling internationally should get 1 dose of measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine before travel. 05 March 2023, 4:00AM. Sexual assaults occur. You certainly wont miss the new wildlife ambulance when its out on the road! The average cost is around WST 20 (USD 8); payment is not covered by the government. 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. Persons with disabilities have easy access to medical facilities. In January 2022, Samoa reported several cases in managed isolation among passengers from an . 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 . Fiame also confirmed that only travellers who test positive on arrival at Faleolo airport would be quarantined at allocated sites and those tested negative would be released to be isolated at home. 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. The blood alcohol limit for driving in Tonga is 0.015%. Fiame noted the second dose for paediatric programme will commence this week with more vaccines donated by New Zealand. You should remain aware of your surroundings, lock your doors at night, and do not leave your belongings unattended. Telephone. 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. At least 48 hours prior to your arrival, you must apply for and receive authorization from the Entry Permit Waiver Program. Travellers must have: For more information, visit Permit Services Ministry of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (mpmc.gov.ws). Enroll inSmart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)to receive security updates. Local anticipation is building at travel borders opening again after more than a year of emergency restrictions to protect against the spread of the COVID 19 pandemic. 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. Their repatriation, or safe return home, would take some strategic planningand time. . The footing around the mouths of most blowholes is very slippery. A decision to allow quarantine-free international travel to Tahiti in July 2020 saw the country suffer a large COVID-19 outbreak, causing the government to close its borders again in February 2021 . Adequate health facilities are available in Apia but health care in rural areas may be below U.S. standards. Valasi Tafito Selesele told the Samoa Observer that the latest amendments to the State of Emergency Orders was only to start the conversation. Samoan customs authorities may enforce strict regulations about importing or exporting items such as firearms, fruits, pets and other animals, and drugs. We now advise you to exercise normal safety precautions. Thailand and Singaporedropped its testing requirements late last month andFijidropped it early this month. Marshalls launches big child health intervention, 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. The prime minister said the important positive factor that had emerged from the restrictions was that most families were now worshipping together. Hepatitis B. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade is not issuing a specific travel advisory for American Samoa at this time. For the most recent information on what you can do to reduce your risk of contracting or . 05 March 2023, 7:00AM. (File photo) Samoa's plan to reopen to the world would hinge on the country's vaccination. Copyright 2023 Osini Faleatasi Inc. dba Samoa News | All Rights Reserved, Despite police chiefs claims, ASCO employees not arrested or charged, Fagaitua & Leone High Schools' JROTCs accredited for next three years, Bipartisan Peace Corps Reauthorization Act reintroduced in U.S. House. CEO of Samoa's tourism authority Fa'amatuainu Lenata'i Suifua said that vaccinations and a tracer . and approved by the Cabinet at its meeting Monday afternoon. 05.05.2022. Anyone interested in traveling for medical purposes should consult with their local physician before traveling and visit the. Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata'afa announced on Monday major changes to Samoa's State of Emergency orders. In Samoa, driving under the influence could land you immediately in jail. Bars in American Samoa are . There are a few significant differences in the rules of the road in Samoa as compared to the United States (e.g., meeting situation at an intersection). The accident rate then dropped sharply, but soon rose to . Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Samoa are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. List any local resources that can provide additional useful information. Prime Minister Fiam Naomi Mata'afa confirmed this week that the country would welcome visitors into the country in August and September, just a few months way from now. Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad. A new initiative by the Mental Health Unit was initiated on the 29th August 2018, supported by Samoan boxing champion. Find information on dual nationality, prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites. 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. 4 sizes available. Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. Prime Minister Tuila'epa Sa'ilele Malielegaoi told local radio the only thing his government was waiting on was the return to shore of 17 Samoan sailors quarantined on board the Lady Samoa III interisland ferry. Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine. Aviation Safety Oversight: he U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Samoas Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Samoas air carrier operations. Alerts and Messages for U.S. ACC Building, Matafele. 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. Leausa says despite rigorous border testing, vaccines are the last line of defense against the virus getting a foot-hold in the country. Check the CDC website for additional information andFrequently Asked Questions. Most major hotels, restaurants, and cafes are actively restructuring their facilities to accommodate persons with disabilities. All international cruise ships and yachts scheduled to arrive after 19 March 2020 will not be granted entry into Tonga until further notice. Stranded residents are finally. | Restaurants in American Samoa are open with restrictions. For emergency services in Samoa, dial 911. Flights to Samoa currently operate direct from Auckland with Air New Zealand, Sydney/Brisbane with Qantas, Nadi (Fiji) and Honolulu (Hawaii) with Fiji Airways. Samoa's international borders officially open again from next week. Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter American Samoa without restrictions. The Samoan government said that vaccination rates have been critical in the decision to reopen. Generally, hospital staffing is minimal overnight. Financial transactions:Some businesses in Apia, especially those frequented by tourists, do accept credit cards, but many do not, including gas stations. Full travel advice: Local laws. U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. June 30, 2020 - The Governor ordered cut hours and pay be restored for government employees stranded outside of the territory since March when local borders were . Visit Samoan Government and/or Samoa Ministry of Health for the most up-to-date information in Samoa. All land borders between Cambodia and Vietnam, Thailand and Laos are now open. Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments. 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 All nationalities traveling to Samoa can apply for a 90-day Visitor Permit on arrival using the arrival card. In 2022, the people in American Samoa and their leaders are focused on preserving balance between our proven allegiance as a people to the nation we love, and the historical achievement of autonomy that defines a federal-territorial relationship unlike any other under the American flag. Vehicles should never enter a stream if the roadbed is not visible or if the waters depth is more than the vehicles clearance. It really is a world cruise and guests get to see an amazing variety of locations. All nationalities traveling to Samoa can apply for a 90-day Visitor Permit on arrival using the arrival card. Consular services are only being offered via appointment. For information about tropical cyclone preparedness, visit our, For information about all types of natural disasters, visit the. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers. Any U.S. citizen or non-citizen U.S. national has the right to contact a representative from the U.S. Embassy. Terms & Conditions | Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business. The ferry was currently moored offshore until its 14 day period was over, next Thursday. Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients. 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. To receive alerts, enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). 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. External links to other Internet sites should not be construed as an endorsement of the views or privacy policies contained therein. 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. The Emergency Operations Center shall continue to be activated to coordinate response efforts. Please exercise appropriate caution when you are walking, running, or riding a bike near stray dogs. You should be aware that vehicle safety regulations are rarely enforced, and traffic violations occur routinely. Need help? Rapid antigen tests are readily available at public hospitals and private clinics. Register or sign in to create events, jobs and access premium features. Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Samoa's borders are likely to remain closed for the rest of the year, as health authorities set a Covid-19 vaccination target. If your guess was that the woman in the featured image snagged the job then youd be spot on. +(685) 21631 press 0 for the operator or extension 2222. Patients bear all costs for transfer to or between hospitals. However this morning he warned it was highly unlikely air travel in and out of the country would be opened soon. REOPENING BORDERS Samoa borders will open once eligible population fully vaccinated 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. READ MORE >> News Releases Tourism Views & Insights Published Monday, 17 October 2022 Exercise particular caution in and around the Beach Road strip of bars in Apia. Actions to Take Most hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment. Visit the website of theSamoa Tourism Authorityfor road safety information. 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. PRC testing is no longer widely available. Assistance for U.S. Citizens. We look forward to welcoming visitors with open arms later this year, and we encourage travellers to experience Samoas untouched beauty, unique cultural experiences, rich heritage and friendly locals for themselves.. 11 December 2017, 12:00AM. Photo / Getty Images Tumuauatasi Matafeo was in Samoa in March, 2020, when Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern made the. Online application - Entry Permit Waiver Program Yellow fever Further information may be found on theFAAs safety assessment page. Could video game skills help you get a job? Visitors indicating they have tested HIV positive will be subject to questioning by a health professional upon entry. Samoa recently reduced its transmission level from. 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. Featuring DJs, live performances, drag queens and more, Pride Village is the place to be this weekend! Find continuously updated travel restrictions for Samoa such as border, vaccination, COVID-19 testing, and quarantine requirements. Health boss Leausa Take Naseri says borders will re-open only when 98 percent of the eligible population has been vaccinated against Covid-19. See our webpage for more information oninsurance providers for overseas coverage. 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. 2021 Sun (Fiji) News Pte Ltd. All Rights reserved. With churches streaming services, Tuila'epa pointed out he could now switch between services and attend all of them. Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance. 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. 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. The last 12 Covid-19 samples from Samoa sent to New Zealand for testing have all returned negative results. "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. Monday 2nd May 2022, Apia Samoa. The Samoan Government has announced it will be reopening its border to international travellers from August/September later this year. Check with the Samoa Ministry of Customs and Revenue to ensure the medication is legal in Samoa. Due to poor and deteriorating road conditions, night driving on unlit rural roads can be dangerous and should be avoided if possible. "Cabinet considered the plan for reopening of our international borders. Samoas Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa has announced the plan to reopen Samoas international borders to international travellers from August/September this year. The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) allows citizens of participating countries* to travel to the United States without a visa for stays of 90 days or less, when they meet all requirements. Photo: Samoa Government. 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. Email:AmEmbApia@state.gov or ApiaConsular@state.gov. It's a possibility that travelers will have to show a negative test to enter the country. Recommended in public spaces, enclosed environments and public transportation. The Samoan Government has announced an official date for Samoa to reopen its borders to international travellers. For more information see Requirement for Proof of COVID-19 Vaccination for Air Passengers. American Samoa closed its borders in March. Sign up for email alerts as countries begin to open - choose the destinations you're interested in so you're in the know. victims compensation programs in the U.S. insurance providers for overseas coverage. New Caledonia, Tahiti, and Indonesiaall recently removed pre-departure testing requirements. Traffic is particularly hazardous for the disabled in rural areas that have no footpaths and sidewalks. White or transparent. "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. See our webpage for further information. Consider hiring a private nurse or having family spend the night with the patient, especially a minor child. He said he would make a formal announcement about the government's plans "soon.". Fines may be given to individuals, businesses and organizations who do not comply with the governments COVID restrictions. For Samoas border reopening, a series of developments and new processes have been put into place to ensure Samoa is ready for international arrivals. As international travel begins to take shape again, Samoa has been striving to ensure critical components of our travel-ready toolkit are in place. Samoa This Polynesian island will reopen in August. Enjoy unlimited access to all our articles on any device + free trial to e-Edition. Telephone: +685 21436 / 21631 / 21452 or 22696 Consult your airline, cruise line, or other travel operators regarding any updated information about your travel plans and/or restrictions. Man Shot Dead In Front Of Son In Targeted Attack Outside Gym, Migrant Shipwreck In Italy Kills At Least Fifty-Nine, Including Twelve Children, 'Poland Well-Prepared For Chinese Tourists' Arrivals, Turkey Widens Probe Into Building Collapses As Quake Toll Exceeds 50,000, Samoas Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa, Poland Well-Prepared For Chinese Tourists Arrivals, China Expands Transport Network To Boost Development, Prasad Launches Self-Defense Tool Business. Are there COVID-related entry requirements for U.S. citizens? 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. Could video game skills help you get a job? Are there restrictions on intercity or interstate travel? Review the. and see the Ministrys recent vaccination update. 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. Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescription in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with little controls. 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. 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. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctors prescription. In an announcement overnight, Prime Minister Fiam Naomi Mataafa has confirmed Samoa will welcome international travellers into the country from 1 August 2022. Schools open on Monday 4 May 2020, until further notice. Something we love to see! We've lowered the travel advice level. Japan and Thailand will both drop testing requirements from the start of next month. As of Thursday night, 10,900 doses had reached 6200 men and 4700 women. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. updated: 10 Jul 2020 Belarus American Samoa specific information: Belgium updated: 08 Mar 2022 Consultthe CDC websitefor accurate, up-to-date information. 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 . Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.