Get Your Samoa Dual Citizenship – Learn How to Apply
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Eligibility Overview
- By Birth: You are a Samoan citizen if born in Samoa to at least one Samoan parent.
- By Descent: If born abroad to a Samoan citizen, you may register for citizenship by descent through the Ministry of the Prime Minister and Cabinet.
- By Marriage: A foreigner married to a Samoan citizen may apply for citizenship after 3 years of marriage and residence.
- By Naturalization: Foreigners can apply after 5 years of legal residence in Samoa, with good character and knowledge of Samoan customs.
- Special Exception – Dual Citizenship Allowed: Samoa permits dual citizenship. You can become a citizen without giving up your original nationality.
Note: Samoan citizenship is granted through law or custom, and strong ties to family and community are often important during the application review.
Step-by-Step Process
- Choose your path: descent, marriage, or naturalization.
- Apply through the Immigration Division of the Ministry of the Prime Minister and Cabinet.
- Submit required documents and attend interviews if requested.
- Take the citizenship oath if approved.
Benefits of Samoan Citizenship
- Live and work freely in Samoa
- Retain your current nationality while enjoying Samoan rights
- Own land under Samoan law (customary land excluded for foreigners)
- Pass citizenship to your children and access public services
Frequently asked questions.
Does Samoa allow dual citizenship?
Yes. Samoa permits dual citizenship, allowing you to retain your original nationality while becoming a Samoan citizen.
Can I apply for citizenship through a Samoan parent?
Yes. If one of your parents is a Samoan citizen, you are eligible for citizenship by descent even if born abroad.
Can I become a Samoan citizen through marriage?
Yes. After 3 years of marriage and residence in Samoa, a foreign spouse may apply for citizenship.
How long do I need to live in Samoa to apply for naturalization?
You must reside legally in Samoa for 5 years and show integration into society to qualify for naturalization.
Do I have to pay taxes in Samoa as a citizen?
Samoa taxes residents on income earned in the country. If you live abroad, you’re only taxed on Samoan-source income.