Samoa: Officials maintaining Level 2 alert through May 17 /update 5

Event

Samoan officials have extended a Level 2 alert, the second-highest level in a four-tier system, nationwide through May 17 amid ongoing COVID-19 activity. However, the government will reduce existing controls, reducing a curfew to 23:00-06:00 nightly. Authorities will also allow businesses to operate 06:00-22:00 Monday-Saturday and 12:00-22:00 on Sundays.

The government plans to resume international flights in May, though leaders did not specify a start date; the adjustment will permit Samoan citizens to enter the country for any reason.

Domestic Measures
Officials continue to require facemasks in public. Public gatherings can occur with up to 50 people indoors and 100 people outside. Children under 12 years old cannot enter public establishments until further notice.

The government allows interisland ferry services and other public transport to operate with social distancing and other measures. A heightened security presence, including checkpoints, is likely to continue in Apia and other areas to ensure compliance with regulations. Delivery and shipping delays are highly likely.

International Travel Restrictions
Most foreign nationals remain banned until further notice; cargo flights occur with government approval. The government approves inbound travel on a case-by-case basis; entrants must submit a request to health authorities 21 days before the planned journey. Officials have banned all passengers who have been in or transited high-risk countries Australia, Belgium, Botswana, Eswatini, Germany, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Seychelles, South Africa, the UK, the US, and Zimbabwe. Travel is possible from American Samoa with permission. Authorities bar entry for anyone with a positive COVID-19 test result within six months of arrival.

All arrivals 12 years old and above must be fully vaccinated two weeks before entry. Passengers must provide a hard copy of their vaccination certification and medical clearance obtained within 120 hours before initial departure that states if they have had COVID-19. Travelers must also receive a negative COVID-19 test result taken within 48 hours before departure. Officials require individuals to quarantine for at least 14 days, though officials will extend quarantine time for arrivals that test positive for COVID-19. The government has also suspended home quarantine options for most travelers; diplomats and inbound passengers from New Zealand and Pacific countries and territories without COVID-19 can still apply for home quarantine.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Remain nonconfrontational if stopped by police. Plan for queues and delays at available shopping centers. Ensure business appointments conform to operating hours. Consider adjusting itineraries for time-sensitive travel or prepare to shelter in place during lockdown periods.