Samoa entry requirements for Saudi Arabia passport holders
Checked daily · Updated May 25, 2026·View sources
Visa on arrival
Max stay
No fixed limit
Passport validity
6 months
Beyond entry date
Return ticket
Required
Or onward travel proof
Proof of funds
Recommended
May be checked
Saudi Arabian passport holders can get a visa on arrival when landing in Samoa. The process happens at Faleolo International Airport (APW) near Apia. As of 2026, no advance application is needed.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Valid passport Must be valid for the duration of your stay | Your passport needs to be valid for the entire time you plan to be in Samoa. Airlines check this at check-in, and immigration officers in Apia will deny boarding if your passport expires before your departure date. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Proof of departure from Samoa | Immigration at Faleolo Airport (APW) asks every arriving passenger for a confirmed onward or return ticket. If you don't have one, they'll direct you to buy a ticket on the spot from the airline counter inside the terminal. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel booking or invitation letter | Have a printed or digital hotel reservation ready. Immigration officers occasionally ask for it, especially if you're arriving without a pre-booked tour package. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Evidence of sufficient money for your stay | Carry a bank statement or credit card showing you can cover your expenses. Samoa doesn't have a fixed minimum amount, but officers may ask how you'll support yourself during your visit. | Recommended |
No visa needed in advance
Saudi passport holders get a visa on arrival at Faleolo International Airport. No need to apply before your trip — just show up with the right documents.
Passport validity is critical
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your entry date. Airlines check this before boarding — if it's close, renew first.
What happens at the border
1
Arrive at Faleolo International Airport
After landing, follow signs to the immigration hall. Join the queue for 'Visa on Arrival' or 'Foreign Passports'.
2
Present documents to immigration officer
Hand over your passport, completed arrival card (given on the plane), and any supporting documents like your return ticket or hotel booking. The officer will process your visa.
3
Pay the visa fee (if any)
The visa on arrival is free for Saudi passport holders as of 2026. No payment is required at the counter.
4
Receive entry stamp and collect luggage
The officer will stamp your passport with the visa and entry date. Then proceed to baggage claim and customs.
Download Samoa Entry Checklist
PDF · Saudi Arabia Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated May 25, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Tourist visa (single entry)
Max stay60 days, extendable 30 days
Validity3 months from issue
CostFree (0 USD) for visa on arrival
Visa on arrival is free for Saudi passport holders. For longer stays, apply for extension.
Tourist visa (multiple entry)
Max stay60 days per entry, extendable
Validity6 months from issue
Cost~200 WST (~70 USD)
Available from Samoan embassies or consulates. Allows multiple entries within validity.
Business visa
Max stay90 days, extendable
Validity6 months from issue
Cost~300 WST (~105 USD)
Requires invitation letter from Samoan company. Apply at Samoan embassy.
retirement visa
Samoa Retirement Visa
1 year, renewable annually
~500 WST (~175 USD) per year
For retirees aged 55+ with proof of pension or sufficient funds. Allows long-term stay without work rights.
work visa
Samoa Work Permit
1 year, renewable
~1,000 WST (~350 USD) per year
Requires a job offer from a Samoan employer and government approval. Allows employment in Samoa.
investor visa
Samoa Investor Visa
3 years, renewable
~5,000 WST (~1,750 USD) initial fee
For individuals investing at least 500,000 WST in a Samoan business. Includes residency rights.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Visa on arrival (single entry)Saudi Arabian passport holders can obtain a visa on arrival at no cost for stays up to 60 days. | Free (0 USD) |
| Stay extension (per month)Extensions may be granted for up to 60 days at the discretion of immigration. Apply before current visa expires. | ~100 WST (~35 USD) |
| Overstay fine (per day)Overstay fines are assessed daily. Maximum cap may apply; check with immigration. | ~50 WST (~18 USD) |
Common reasons for entry denial
No return ticket30%
Insufficient funds25%
Incomplete documents20%
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
Saudi Arabian passport holders transiting through Samoa do not require a transit visa if they remain airside and have a confirmed onward ticket within 24 hours.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Transit hubsFaleolo International Airport (APW)
Health & vaccines for Samoa
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired if arriving from a country with yellow fever transmission risk.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidRecommendedTetanus-diphtheriaEssentialMeasles-mumps-rubella (MMR)Essential
Health risks
Dengue feverModerate risk
Mosquito-borne disease; use insect repellent and avoid standing water areas.
Zika virusLow risk
Pregnant women should take precautions; mosquito avoidance recommended.
Food and waterborne diseasesModerate risk
Drink bottled or boiled water; avoid undercooked 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 extensions and permits. Bring passport, application form, and fee.
Salelologa
Salelologa Immigration Office
Salelologa Wharf, Savai'i
Mon–Fri 09:00–15:00
Handles extensions for visitors on Savai'i island. Limited services; call ahead.
Practical information for SA 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 = 2.69 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
The visa on arrival typically grants a stay of up to 60 days. Extensions are possible but not automatic — you'll need to apply at the Samoa Immigration Office in Apia before your current visa expires.
Yes, you can apply for an extension at the Samoa Immigration Office in Apia. The process takes a few days and costs around 200 WST (about 75 USD). You'll need a valid reason and proof of funds.
Yes, as of 2026, there is no fee for the visa on arrival for Saudi nationals. You don't need to pay anything at the airport.
You will likely be denied boarding by your airline or refused entry by Samoan immigration. Renew your passport before traveling.
Yes, you need proof of onward travel — either a return ticket to Saudi Arabia or a ticket to your next destination. A one-way ticket without onward proof may cause issues.
You don't need to. The visa on arrival is available to Saudi passport holders and is processed at the airport. No advance application is required.
Overstaying can result in a fine of up to 500 WST (about 190 USD) and possible deportation. Always apply for an extension before your visa expires.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on May 25, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.