Electricity

The voltage used in American Samoa is 120V, 60hz. Plugs are type I with an earthing pin and two flat pins forming an inverted V-shape.

Language

English and Samoan are both official languages in American Samoa. English is widely used in government and education, while Samoan remains the primary language spoken at home and in daily community life.

Money

The official currency in American Samoa is the United States dollar (USD), which is divided into 100 cents. Visitors may import or export local or foreign currency freely, though amounts over $10,000 must be declared. Currency exchange services are available at the airport and through local banks. American Express is widely accepted, while other cards may see more limited use. ATMs are available at branches of the Bank of Hawaii. The Amerika Samoa Bank has ceased operations.

Apple Pay and Google Pay are supported in American Samoa and may be accepted at larger businesses, hotels, and tourist venues. However, as the local economy is still largely cash-based, especially outside urban areas, travellers should carry cash as a backup.

Tipping

Tipping isn't a common practice in American Samoa, and it's not expected. That said, if a guest feels someone has gone above and beyond, a small gesture of thanks is always appreciated.

Health

It's advisable for travellers to ensure their routine vaccinations are up to date; this includes vaccines for measles‑mumps‑rubella (MMR), diphtheria‑tetanus‑pertussis, varicella (chickenpox), polio, and influenza. Vaccinations for hepatitis A and typhoid are also recommended. Medical services in American Samoa are limited; the Lyndon B. Johnson Tropical Medical Center in Pago Pago is the territory's only hospital. It's best for travellers to bring any necessary prescriptions or over‑the‑counter medications and have comprehensive travel insurance in case of illness or medical evacuation.

Safety

Most visits to American Samoa go smoothly, but it's always good to stay alert when walking around. When using transport, visitors should try to choose vehicles that have seatbelts and avoid overcrowded buses or minivans, as these can sometimes be less safe. Taking a little extra care will help ensure the trip is a relaxing one.

Local customs

American Samoans are known for their friendliness and hospitality, but travellers should remain respectful of local customs. While many locals wear Western-style clothing, the traditional wraparound lavalava is still common, particularly among the older generation. In line with Samoan cultural norms around modesty, visitors should avoid wearing swimwear or revealing clothing outside of beaches and resort areas. Women are advised to keep bikini tops confined to the beach. Same-sex sexual activity has been legal since 1980, but same-sex couples do not currently have the same legal rights and benefits as opposite-sex married couples in American Samoa.

Doing business

Business in American Samoa is professional and largely centred around agriculture and fishing, with the tuna industry being the key economic driver. Lightweight suits are suitable for business visits, and ties are usually reserved for formal meetings and occasions. While men hold most senior positions, women increasingly occupy important roles in businesses and government. Most businesses operate from 8am to 5pm on weekdays, with some banks and shops opening on Saturday mornings.

Duty free

Travellers to American Samoa may bring with them up to 200 cigarettes, 100 cigars, 1 litre of alcohol, and an amount of perfume reasonable for personal use.

Communications

The international country dialling code is +1. The country area code for phones in American Samoa is 684. Visitors can purchase local SIM cards and pre-paid mobile credit; WiFi is available at hotels and restaurants in Pago Pago.

Passport & Visa

Visitors to American Samoa must have a passport that's valid for at least six months beyond their intended departure date. Citizens of the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom are typically issued a 30-day entry permit upon arrival. Other international travellers must apply for an entry permit in advance through the American Samoa Department of Legal Affairs. Regardless of nationality, all visitors are required to present proof of sufficient funds, a return or onward ticket, and documents for their next destination.

Entry requirements

A passport or other valid form of ID is required, but nationals of the USA do not require a visa.

A passport valid for six months beyond the arrival date is required, but no visa is needed for touristic stays of up to 30 days for British citizens.

Canadian nationals need a passport that is valid for six months beyond the arrival date, though no visa is required for touristic stays of up to 30 days.

Australian nationals need a passport that is valid for six months beyond the arrival date, but no visa is required for touristic stays of up to 30 days.

A passport valid for six months beyond the arrival date is required for South African nationals, and a visa must be obtained before arrival.

Irish nationals need a passport that is valid for six months beyond the arrival date, but no visa is required for touristic stays of up to 30 days.

A passport valid for six months beyond the arrival date is needed for New Zealand nationals, but no visa is required for touristic stays of up to 30 days.

Useful contacts

American Samoa Visitors Bureau, Pago Pago: +1 684 633 9805

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