29 Aug 2022 | 07:34 AM UTC
American Samoa: Authorities ease COVID-19 measures territorywide as of Aug. 29 /update 8
American Samoa eases some COVID-19 restrictions as of Aug. 29. International transport resumed with entry requirements.
Event
American Samoa has eased some COVID-19 restrictions as of Aug. 29. The government has lifted a vaccine mandate for public workers in the executive branch and students. Officials have also relaxed a facemask mandate; however, people that test positive for COVID-19 must wear facemasks for 10 days or until testing negative, while close contacts must wear facemasks for at least five days. Authorities have lifted a requirement for positive COVID-19 cases to report results via the TALOFAPASS system.
The government has also resumed international air and maritime transport and lifted a requirement for travelers to spend 72 hours in the US or Samoa before arrival. However, entry requirements remain in place.
Domestic Measures
A state of emergency remains in effect. Businesses can require facemasks at their discretion. 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
American Samoa requires inbound travelers five years old and above to be fully vaccinated, with exceptions. Inbound travelers must register on the TALOFAPASS at least 10 days before entry. Travelers, except from the US and Samoa, must receive a negative result from a COVID-19 PCR test 72 hours or less before departure.
Officials require all entrants to undergo on-arrival COVID-19 testing; people that test negative can forgo quarantine. However, travelers that receive a positive test result may receive quarantine orders; officials have typically required 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.
Advice
Strictly heed the instructions of authorities. Remain courteous and cooperative if approached and questioned by law enforcement officers.
