Residence in Samoa: permits and requirements
Living legally in Samoa is possible through 5 permit types: work, investment, study, family, permanent. Each program has its own requirements; below are the duration, renewal, costs and documentation according to the country's official sources.
Temporary residence permit for employment
Residence type #1 of 5
Employer-sponsored permit with clearance from the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Labour (MPMC101); fees of 900-1,800 WST (Samoa Immigration).
Requirements
- MPMC100 form and employer sponsorship (MPMC101)
- 1. MCIL labor approval: employment interest for Samoa
- Medical and police reports (MPMC102/103) and qualifications certified by the SQA
Documentation
- MPMC100/101 form
- Employment contract
- Medical and police reports
- Fees (900 WST from outside the country; 1,800 WST from within) and passport copy
Frequently asked questions about residence in Samoa
How many types of residence permits are there in Samoa?
Samoa offers 5 residence permit types, grouped into the categories work, investment, study, family, permanent. Each permit has its own requirements, duration and documentation, detailed in this fact sheet according to the country's official sources.
How long do residence permits in Samoa last?
Durations vary by permit type: For the employment period (renewable); 1-3 years (renewable); For the study period (renewable); 1 year (renewable). The exact details of each type appear in the corresponding fact sheet.
Can residence permits in Samoa be renewed?
It depends on the type: 4 of 5 permits are renewable. Each fact sheet on this page indicates whether the permit in question allows renewal.
What documentation is usually required to reside in Samoa?
Although each permit requires its own file, the most recurrent documents are: Formulario de solicitud; Tasas; Medical and police reports. The complete list by residence type appears in each fact sheet, together with the corresponding official link.
Does residence in Samoa lead to nationality?
Yes, through the Citizenship by permanent residence pathway, which requires 5 years on a permanent residence permit. The complete requirements are in the nationality fact sheet of Samoa.
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Anything to correct or add about Samoa?
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