Definitions and advisories

Samoan citizenship entitles individuals to a range of privileges in Samoa. These include:

  • the ability to purchase land;
  • the right to vote in General Elections;
  • the right to obtain Samoan travel documentation;
  • the ability to represent Samoa in sporting events;
  • the right to claim pension;
  • easier access to employment opportunities;
  • the right to apply for educational scholarships; and
  • cheaper health care.

Citizenship does bear certain responsibilities however. All Samoan citizens are expected to be loyal to, and to serve, Samoa and to help upkeep and maintain the laws of Samoa.

Applying for citizenship

People can apply for Samoan citizenship in one of four ways. It is important to choose the one that is most appropriate. The four ways of obtaining Samoan citizenship are:

Citizenship by Birth
For people born in Samoa where at least one parent is a Samoan citizen (learn more).
Citizenship by Descent
For people born outside of Samoa where at least one parent is a Samoan citizen at the time of birth (learn more).
Citizenship by Permanent Residence
For people who have held a Samoan Permanent Resident Permit for at least five years (learn more).
Citizenship by Marriage
For people who have been married to a Samoan citizen for at least five years and are currently residing in Samoa (learn more).

Certificate of Citizenship

All Samoan citizens may apply to Samoa Immigration for a Certificate of Citizenship. The certificate is considered conclusive evidence for all purposes that the person is a citizen of Samoa. Applications for a Certificate of Citizenship must be made in writing and submitted to Samoa Immigration. Applicants can use the Application for a Certificate of Citizenship Form (PDF document) for their submission. There is also a non-refundable processing fee of $100 WST.

Renunciation of citizenship

At any time, a Samoan citizen who is also a citizen or intends to become a citizen of any other state which does not permit dual citizenship may make a declaration renouncing their Samoan citizenship. To renounce Samoan citizenship, individuals must complete and submit the Declaration of Renunciation of Samoan Citizenship Form (PDF document) and a non-refundable processing fee of $50 WST to Samoa Immigration. In cases where a person intends to become a citizen of another state, the renunciation of citizenship will not formally come into effect until after their citizenship status in the country in which they intend to become a citizen is proclaimed or registered.

Deprivation or cancellation of citizenship

Subject to the provisions of the Citizenship Act 2004, the Minister may order a person's citizenship be cancelled where the Minister is satisfied that the person has been or is disloyal or disaffected towards Samoa. In cases of citizenship obtained through permanent residence, a person may be deprived of Samoan citizenship in cases where the Minister is satisfied that the person has continuously resided overseas for a period of two (2) years and the person is unlikely to reside in Samoa in the future.

In cases where citizenship was obtained by means of fraud, false representation, concealment of any material fact or mistake, the Minister may order that citizenship to be revoked. The person shall also be liable upon conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding twelve (12) months or a fine not exceeding 100 penalty units, or both.