Samoa entry requirements for Bulgaria passport holders
Checked daily · Updated May 31, 2026·View sources
No visa required
90 days
Max stay
90 days
Passport validity
6 months
Beyond entry date
Return ticket
Required
Or onward travel proof
Proof of funds
Recommended
May be checked
Bulgarian passport holders can visit Samoa visa-free for up to 90 days. This policy has been in place since at least 2026, so no need to apply for a visa in advance. Just show up with your passport and a return ticket.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Valid passport Must be valid for the duration of your stay | Your Bulgarian passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date from Samoa. Airlines check this at check-in — if your passport expires sooner, you may be denied boarding. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Proof of departure from Samoa | Immigration officers in Samoa routinely ask for a confirmed onward or return ticket. Have a printed or digital copy of your flight booking ready — they check this before stamping you in. | Recommended |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel booking or invitation letter | Samoa does not strictly require proof of accommodation, but having a hotel reservation or a letter from a host makes the entry process smoother. Keep a copy on your phone or printed. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Sufficient money for your stay | Carry at least 200 USD per day in cash or have a credit card with available balance. Immigration rarely asks, but if they do, you need to show you can cover your expenses without working. | Recommended |
No visa needed — but don't skip the basics
You don't need to apply for anything before you go. Just make sure your passport is valid for 6+ months and you have a return ticket. Everything else is optional but recommended.
Overstaying is not worth it
The 90-day stay is strict and cannot be extended. If you overstay, you may face fines or a ban. Set a reminder to leave on time.
What happens at the border
1
Arrive at Faleolo International Airport (APW)
Most flights land at Faleolo, about 40 km west of Apia. After deplaning, follow signs to Immigration. There's usually one queue for all foreigners.
2
Present your documents
Hand over your passport and completed arrival card (given on the plane). The officer will check your passport validity and may ask for your return ticket. Answer any questions calmly.
3
Get your entry stamp
The officer stamps your passport with a 90-day visitor permit. No fee. Keep the stamp visible — you'll need it when you leave.
4
Collect luggage and exit
After immigration, grab your bags from the carousel, then walk through customs. Declare any food, plants, or animal products.
Download Samoa Entry Checklist
PDF · Bulgaria Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated May 31, 2026
Overstay calculator
Enter your arrival date and we'll tell you exactly when you need to leave.
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Tourist visa (single entry)
Max stay90 days
Validity3 months from issue
CostFree (not applicable)
Visa-free entry already covers 90 days; no paid alternative for longer stay.
Tourist visa (multiple entry)
Max stay90 days per entry
Validity6 months
CostFree (not applicable)
No multiple-entry visa available; must leave and re-enter for additional stays.
Long-stay visa
Max stayNot available
ValidityN/A
CostN/A
Samoa does not offer long-stay tourist visas for Bulgarian passport holders.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tourist visa (single entry)Visa-free entry covers standard tourist visits; no separate visa needed. | Free (not applicable) |
| Tourist visa (multiple entry)Visa-free entry is single-entry per visit; multiple entries require leaving and re-entering. | Free (not applicable) |
| Stay extension costExtensions are not available for visa-free stays. | Free (not applicable) |
| Overstay fine per dayOverstay penalties are not publicly specified; avoid overstay to prevent issues. | Unknown |
Common reasons for entry denial
No return ticket30%
Insufficient funds25%
Suspicious travel pattern20%
Approval probability calculator
Answer 6 quick questions — we'll estimate how likely you are to be approved for entry based on typical immigration patterns.
Transiting through Samoa
No transit visa needed
Bulgarian passport holders transiting through Samoa do not need a transit visa if they remain airside and have a confirmed onward ticket.
Airside transitAllowed
Transit hubsFaleolo International Airport (APW)
Health & vaccines for Samoa
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired if arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidRecommendedTetanus-diphtheriaEssentialMeasles-mumps-rubella (MMR)Essential
Health risks
Dengue feverModerate risk
Mosquito-borne disease present; use repellent and avoid standing water.
Zika virusLow risk
Low risk but pregnant women should take precautions.
Food and waterborne diseasesModerate risk
Risk of traveler's diarrhea; drink bottled or boiled water and eat well-cooked food.
Based on CDC and WHO guidance. Consult a travel medicine clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalised advice.
Immigration offices for extensions
Apia
Samoa Immigration Office
Level 1, Government Building, Sogi, Apia
Mon–Fri 09:00–16:00
Main office for visa inquiries; extensions not available for visa-free stays.
Practical information for BG travellers
Country basics
CapitalApia
LanguageSamoan, English
Driving sideLeft-hand traffic
US driving licenceUS visitors can drive with a valid US driver's license for up to 30 days.
Money
CurrencySamoan tālā (WST)
Exchange rate
1 USD = 2.68 WST
Time zone
Local timeUTC+13
vs New York+18h
vs Los Angeles+21h
Electricity
Voltage230V / 50Hz
Plug types
IType I (Australian/New Zealand plug with two flat pins and an earth pin)
⚠ US adapter needed
Water & health
Tap water
Not safe — use bottled
Tap water is not safe to drink; stick to bottled or boiled water.
Emergency numbers
Frequently asked questions
No, the visa-free stay is not extendable. You must leave before 90 days are up. Overstaying can result in fines or deportation.
If you're just changing planes and don't leave the airport transit area, you don't need a visa. But check with your airline — some require a visa for any stopover.
You'll likely be denied boarding by the airline or refused entry by Samoan immigration. Renew your passport before traveling.
Yes, you'll get an arrival card on the plane. Fill it out before landing. It asks for basic info: flight number, accommodation address, purpose of visit.
No, there's no official requirement to show bank statements or cash. But if you look like you might work illegally or overstay, an officer could ask. Having a credit card or some cash helps.
The 90-day visitor permit is for tourism only. Working remotely for a foreign employer is technically not allowed, but enforcement is rare. For long-term stays, apply for a work permit.
The Samoan tālā (WST). ATMs are available in Apia but less common elsewhere. Bring some cash for taxis and small shops. Credit cards are accepted at hotels and larger restaurants.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on May 31, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.