27 Jun 2022 | 04:41 AM UTC
American Samoa: Authorities extend state of emergency territorywide through July 27; curfews eased /update 7
American Samoa extends state of emergency through July 27. Curfews lifted. Border controls ongoing.
Event
American Samoa has extended domestic COVID-19 restrictions through at least July 27. However, officials have lifted a nightly curfew and most business restrictions. Companies can continue to require additional COVID-19 requirements to enter their offices or establishments.
Domestic Measures
A state of emergency remains in effect. Individuals must wear facemasks in public when social distancing is impossible, at businesses that require them, and on public transport. A vaccine mandate continues for public workers in the executive branch. Authorities require people that test positive for COVID-19 to report the results via the TALOFAPASS system; health officials can issue quarantine orders, though the duration of quarantine can vary. People that violate COVID-19 measures could face fines as high as USD 1,000.
International Travel Restrictions
Most inbound travel remains banned, though exceptions are possible. Officials usually require prospective travelers, including Guest Worker permit holders, to seek permission from health officials using TALOFAPASS at least 14 days before entry or five days in advance if entering from Samoa. Most permitted entrants five years old and above must be fully vaccinated. The government also requires inbound passengers to remain in the US or Samoa for 72 hours before travel. Travelers must take a COVID-19 PCR test 72 hours or less before departure and complete a health declaration within 24 hours before departure.
Officials require all arrivals to undergo on-arrival COVID-19 testing; entrants that test negative can forgo quarantine. However, travelers that receive a positive test result must quarantine at a government-controlled facility for five days, followed by five days of self-quarantine. Permitted unvaccinated arrivals, except medical workers, must quarantine for 15 days. Officials also require vaccination for residents departing the territory. Cargo and military shipments via air and sea continue.
Advice
Plan for business and transport disruptions. Strictly heed the instructions of authorities. Remain courteous and cooperative if approached and questioned by law enforcement officers.
