Definition and advisories

The Temporary Resident Permit for Study is designed for individuals who wish to pursue studies in Samoa at formally recognised institutions. Typically, the permit is required for studies at the National University of Samoa, the University of the South Pacific, Samoa Polytechnic and theological colleges such as Rhema College and Malua Theological College. This permit is also used for overseas medical students coming to Samoa for work experience and study with the Ministry of Health and the Oceania University of Medicine.

Requirements

All applicants for the Temporary Resident Permit for Study must meet the following requirements:

  • a letter from the educational institution in Samoa confirming enrolment;
  • evidence of sufficient funds for self-support (typically a copy of a bank statement);
  • if studying under a scholarship, a letter confirming details of the award;
  • if a self-supporting student, evidence of accommodation arrangements; and
  • a passport valid for a minimum of six (6) months after the intended period of stay in Samoa for the principal applicant and any dependents.

Costs

Applications for the Temporary Resident Permit for Study cost (in WST):

  • $300 for the principal applicant; and
  • $150 for each dependent.

Forms

All applicants must fill out the Temporary Resident Application Form (MPMC100) (PDF document). One copy of the form should be used for both the principal applicant and all dependents. For applicants intending to stay in Samoa for one year or more a Medical Report Form (MPMC102), and a Radiology Report Form (MPMC103) must also be completed. One copy of each form must be used for each applicant (principal and dependents). Any applicant or dependent 18 years of age or older must also submit police reports from authorities of every country they have lived in for more than one (1) year in the last five (5) years.

Application checklist

Before submitting an application please review the following checklist to confirm that the application is complete. Make sure you have:

  • a letter from the educational institution in Samoa confirming your enrolment;
  • evidence of sufficient funds for self-support;
  • a letter confirming the details of any awards or scholarships you are studying under;
  • evidence of accommodation arrangements if you are a self-supporting student;
  • a single completed Temporary Resident Application Form for yourself and any dependents; and
  • a passport valid for a minimum of six (6) months after the intended period of stay in Samoa for each applicant; and
  • funds to cover the processing cost for yourself and any dependents.

If the purpose of your residence in Samoa will involve you attending classroom and/or food preparation environments, make sure you also have:

  • a completed Medical Report Form; and
  • a completed Radiology Report Form.

If you are intending to reside in Samoa for one year or more, make sure you also have:

  • completed Medical Report Forms for yourself and any dependents 16 years of age or older;
  • completed Radiology Report Forms for yourself and any dependents 16 years of age or older; and
  • police reports for each applicant 18 years of age or older.

Submitting an application

Applications for this permit can be submitted by post to the Samoa Immigration office in Apia, Samoa or to any of the Government of Samoa overseas Missions. Postal addresses for these offices can be found on our contacts page. Applications can also be submitted in person at our office in Apia.