American Samoa
Country Guide

Have you decided to Move to American Samoa?
Whether you’re planning a tourist trip or a business relocation, here’s what you should know before you go.

American Samoa General Overview

• Official country name: Territory of American Samoa
• Location: South Pacific Ocean, Polynesia, approximately 2,600 miles southwest of Hawaii
• Capital city: Pago Pago (on Tutuila Island)
• Official language(s): English and Samoan
• Currency: United States Dollar (USD)
• Time zone: UTC-11 (Samoa Standard Time, no daylight saving time)

Culture & Traditions in American Samoa

• Key customs to be aware of:
  
  • • “Fa’a Samoa” (The Samoan Way) governs all aspects of life, emphasizing respect, service, and community.
    • Matai system – traditional chiefs (matai) lead extended families (aiga) and have significant authority.
    • Respect for elders and those of higher rank is paramount.
    • Sunday is sacred – most activities cease for church and family time.
    • Communal living and sharing are central values; individual needs are secondary to family/community.
    • Traditional ceremonies and customs are taken very seriously.

       

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• Number of official public holidays: 13 federal and territorial days
  
  • • New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents’ Day, American Samoa Flag Day (April 17), Good Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day (July 4), Labor Day, Columbus Day/Discoverers’ Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving Day, Day after Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, plus White Sunday (second Sunday in October – children’s day).
      
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• Main traditional dishes and local drinks:
  • • Dishes:
      Palusami (taro leaves with coconut cream), Oka (raw fish in coconut cream), Lu’au (taro leaves), Fa’ausi (coconut caramel dumplings), Panipopo (coconut buns), Sapasui (Samoan chop suey), Umu-cooked foods (earth oven), Koko Alaisa (cocoa rice), Fa’apapa (coconut bread).
    • Drinks:
      Koko Samoa (Samoan cocoa), fresh coconut water, ‘Ava (kava – ceremonial drink), Vailima beer (imported from Samoa), tropical fruit juices, Vi (Tahitian chestnut drink).

• Languages spoken daily and common expressions:
  
  • • Samoan and English are both widely used, often mixed in conversation.
    • Samoan language is essential for full cultural integration.
    • Common expressions:
      • “Talofa” (Hello)
      • “Fa’afetai” (Thank you)
      • “Tofa” (Goodbye)
      • “Mālō” (Well done/Congratulations)
      • “Tulou” (Excuse me/Pardon me – used when passing in front of someone)
      • “O a mai ‘oe?” (How are you?)

•  Specific clothing and behavioral norms:
  • Conservative dress is expected; modest clothing covering shoulders and knees.
  • Lavalava (wrap-around sarong) is traditional daily wear for both men and women.
  • Sunday best attire required for church – white clothing is traditional.
  • Swimwear only appropriate at beaches, not in villages.
  • Remove shoes before entering homes and churches (fale).
  • Sitting cross-legged on the floor is common; avoid pointing feet at others or stretching legs.
  • Walking through a village requires respectful behavior and appropriate dress.

• Cultural Festivals:
  
  • Flag Day – April 17, American Samoa’s biggest celebration with week-long festivities, traditional dances, and competitions.
  • White Sunday (Lotu Tamaiti) – Second Sunday in October, children are honored in church and family celebrations.
  • Fire Knife Dancing Competitions – Various times throughout the year.
  • Cricket Season – Traditional kilikiti (Samoan cricket) matches.
  • Teuila Festival – September (when held), celebrating Samoan culture, crafts, and traditions.

Demographics & Society in American Samoa

• Total population: Approximately 49,000 (with significant emigration to Hawaii and mainland US)
  
  
• Major ethnic groups: Pacific Islander (92.6%) – primarily Samoan, Asian (3.6%), Mixed (2.7%), White (1.2%). Strong ethnic Samoan identity and culture.
  
  
• Main religion(s): Christianity dominates – Congregational Christian Church (50%), Roman Catholic (20%), various Protestant denominations (30%). Church is central to community life.
  
  
• General safety level:
  
  • Very safe with extremely low violent crime rates.
  • Strong community bonds and traditional authority maintain order.
  • Petty theft can occur but is rare.
  • Natural hazards include tsunamis, tropical cyclones, and earthquakes.
  • Roads can be dangerous due to conditions and driving habits.

• Attitude towards foreigners and diversity:
  
  • Samoans are generally friendly and welcoming to visitors who show respect.
  • Foreigners (palagi) are expected to understand and respect Fa’a Samoa.
  • Integration requires learning customs, language, and participating in community life.
  • Small expat community primarily consists of US government employees, military personnel, and educators.
  • Traditional culture is protective of land and customs; foreigners cannot easily purchase land.
  • Family connections and relationships are essential for full acceptance.

• Age barriers can be challenging in smaller towns.

American Samoa Key Cities & Regions 

• Capital city:
  Pago Pago (3,700 in town, 50,000 metro area including surrounding villages) – Deep natural harbor, tuna fishing industry hub, government center, protected by dramatic mountains. 
  

• Major villages and areas:
  
  • Tafuna (8,200) – Largest village, location of airport, commercial center with shops and services.
  • Nu’uuli (4,000) – Adjacent to Pago Pago, residential area.
  • Fagatogo (1,700) – Government center, territorial offices, market.
  • Leone (3,600) – Western district, historical significance, site of early missionary work.
  • Vatia – Beautiful bay, traditional village setting.
  • Aunu’u Island – Small island off eastern Tutuila, rural lifestyle, quicksand lake.
  • Manu’a Islands (Ta’ū, Ofu, Olosega) – Remote eastern islands, traditional lifestyle, birthplace of Polynesian culture, limited services.

Weather & Climate in American Samoa

• Type of climate: Tropical rainforest, hot and humid year-round with heavy rainfall.
  
  • Average seasonal temperatures:
    
    • Dry season (May – October): 24-30°C, less rainfall but still humid, southeast trade winds.
    • Wet season (November – April): 25-32°C, heavy rainfall, high humidity, cyclone season (December-March).
    • Temperature variation is minimal throughout the year.
    • Ocean temperature: 26-29°C year-round.

Schooling in American Samoa

• Public Schools:
  – Free public education from elementary through high school
  – American curriculum following US federal standards
  – Medium of instruction: English (Samoan widely spoken informally)
  – American Samoa Department of Education oversees all public schools
  – Quality varies; some schools well-resourced, others struggle with aging facilities
  – Strong emphasis on sports, particularly football (American Samoa produces many NFL players)
  – Cultural education includes Fa’a Samoa (Samoan culture) and language

• Private Schools:
  – Very limited options
  – *Samoa Adventist Academy* – Private Christian school in Leone
  – Few other small private/church schools
  – Generally small class sizes due to limited population

• Higher Education:
  – American Samoa Community College (ASCC) – Main higher education institution
  – Associate degrees, vocational programs, teacher training
  – Located in Mapusaga
  – Affordable tuition for residents
  – Some online programs available
  – Many students travel to Hawaii, mainland US, or other Pacific islands for university education

• Key Information:
  – School year follows US calendar: August/September to May/June
  – Sports programs highly competitive, especially football, rugby
  – Traditional cultural education integrated into curriculum
  – Limited AP or International Baccalaureate programs
  – Children automatically receive US nationality if born in American Samoa to US national parents

• Challenges:
  – Limited advanced academic programs
  – Aging school facilities and infrastructure
  – Teacher retention issues
  – Higher education requires leaving territory for most students

Health & Care in American Samoa

• System type: Universal healthcare (Sécurité Sociale)
• Different structures to get support:
  Public hospitals, private clinics, general practitioners
• Cost:
  Basic care reimbursed, private insurance (“mutuelle”) recommended for full coverage

Banking in American Samoa

• Major Banks:
  – ANZ Amerika Samoa Bank (ANZ ASB) – Main commercial bank, Australian-owned
  – Full-service banking: checking, savings, loans, mortgages
  – Multiple ATMs throughout Tutuila
  – Online banking available
  – Territorial Bank of American Samoa (TBAS) – Government-owned development bank
  – Focus on business development and home loans
  – Limited consumer banking services
  – Bank of Hawaii – Limited presence; mainly serves government and large businesses

• Opening an Account:
  – Requirements: Valid ID (passport or US state ID), Social Security Number, proof of address
  – US Citizens/Nationals: Straightforward process, typically same-day
  – Foreigners: More complex; may require work permit or visa documentation
  – In-person application required; no online account opening

• Banking Features:
  • Account types: Checking (often with fees), savings (low interest rates)
  • Fees: Monthly maintenance fees common ($5-15); ATM fees for non-customers
  • Limited hours: Generally Monday-Friday 9 AM – 3 PM; closed weekends
  • ATMs: Available in Pago Pago and main villages; limited elsewhere
  • Online banking: Basic services available through ANZ ASB

• Payment Methods:
  • Cash: Still widely used – US Dollar is official currency
  • Checks: Still common for bill payments
  • Debit cards: Widely accepted in stores and restaurants
  • Credit cards: Major cards (Visa, Mastercard) accepted at most businesses; limited merchants
  • Mobile payments: Limited adoption; Apple Pay/Google Pay not widely available

• Key Limitations:
  • No major US banks: Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Chase not present
  • International transfers: Expensive and slow; limited options
  • Investment services: Very limited; no brokerage services locally
  • Credit building: Local credit history separate from US mainland
  • Currency exchange: Very limited services; US Dollar only currency

• Practical Considerations:
  • Maintain US mainland bank account if possible – useful for online transactions, broader services
  • Wire transfers: Expensive ($25-50 per transaction); plan accordingly
  • Check cashing: Some stores offer services but with fees
  • Banking deserts:
    • Remote villages have no bank access; cash economy prevails
  • Internet banking reliability: Depends on internet connection quality
  • Financial services limited: Wealth management, investment advice virtually non-existent locally

• For Expats:
  • Open local account for salary deposits and daily expenses
  • Keep mainland US account for online purchases, subscriptions, investments
  • Bring sufficient cash when arriving – account setup may take time
  • Credit cards from mainland banks work but inform bank of American Samoa usage
  • Money transfers to/from mainland can take 3-5 business days
  • Western Union and MoneyGram available for remittances

• Important Notes:
  • American Samoa has separate banking system from US mainland despite political relationship
  • FDIC insurance applies to ANZ ASB deposits
  • Financial infrastructure basic compared to developed countries
  • Plan finances carefully given limited banking options and services

American Samoa Practical Informations

• Entry requirements:
  
  • US Citizens: No passport required (birth certificate and photo ID acceptable); can stay indefinitely.
  • Non-US Citizens: Passport required; visa requirements vary by nationality.
  • Tourist permits: 30-day entry permit typically granted on arrival; extensions possible.
  • Work permits: Required for employment; usually arranged by employer.
  • Residence: Establishing legal residence can be complex; consult territorial immigration.
  • Note: American Samoa has separate immigration from the United States.

• Local transportation options:
  
  • Aiga buses – Colorful local buses, inexpensive but irregular schedules, main transport for locals.
  • Taxis – Available but limited; negotiate fare in advance or agree on rate.
  • Rental cars – Available at airport and Pago Pago; recommended for flexibility; drive on right side.
  • Inter-island flights – Polynesian Airlines connects Tutuila with Manu’a Islands (limited schedule).
  • Ferries – Irregular service to nearby islands; check schedules locally.
  • Walking – Common in villages but distances between areas can be significant.
  • No public transport on Sundays – respect for Sabbath.

• Cost of living:
  
  • Housing: Rent for a two-bedroom house/apartment: $800-1,500; limited rental market, often requires connections. Learn more here…
  • Food: Groceries expensive due to importation; local produce affordable at markets. Restaurant meals: $10-20.
  • Transport: Gas prices similar to US mainland; aiga bus rides: $1-2.
  • Utilities: Expensive – electricity, water, internet costs are high.
  • Overall: Higher than US mainland for many items due to remote location and shipping costs; local lifestyle can be more affordable.
• Electrical outlets and voltage used: Type A, B, F, I outlets; 120V / 60Hz (US standard).
  
  
• Emergency numbers to know:
  
  • Emergency (Police, Fire, Ambulance): 911
  • Police: 633-1111
  • Fire Department: 633-2222
  • LBJ Tropical Medical Center: 633-1222
  • Coast Guard: 633-5111
  • Tsunami Warning: Sirens and local alerts

American Samoa Visitor Tips

• Gestures to avoid or cultural taboos:
  
  • Never stand while others are seated in a fale (house) or during meetings.
  • Don’t eat while walking through villages.
  • Avoid pointing feet at people; feet are considered unclean.
  • Don’t touch anyone’s head – it’s considered sacred.
  • Never refuse food offered during ceremonies or visits.
  • Don’t walk in front of seated people without saying “tulou” (excuse me) and bending slightly.
  • Avoid public displays of affection.
  • Respect sa (curfew bell) – typically 6-7 PM for family prayer time; stay quiet and still if caught outside.

• Specific regulations:
  
  • Sunday observance: Most businesses closed; swimming, sports, and loud activities prohibited. Respect this strictly.
  • Alcohol sales restricted; no sales on Sundays; limited availability.
  • Modest dress required in villages – shoulders and knees covered.
  • Photography: Always ask permission before photographing people or ceremonies.
  • Dogs: Many villages have dogs; be cautious.
  • Fishing and marine resources: Follow local regulations; some areas restricted.
  • Land ownership: Foreigners cannot own communal land (95% of territory).

• Tips for integrating locally:
  
  • Learn Samoan language – essential for acceptance and understanding culture.
  • Participate in church activities – church is center of community life.
  • Understand and respect Fa’a Samoa – read about customs and ask questions respectfully.
  • Build relationships with matai and community leaders.
  • Contribute to communal activities and village projects.
  • Observe Sunday strictly – no work, shopping, or recreational activities.
  • Dress modestly and appropriately at all times.
  • Be patient – island time is real; flexibility is necessary.
  • Accept and participate in traditional ceremonies when invited.
  • Understand the aiga system – extended family obligations are paramount.

• Potential risks or important considerations:
  
  • Natural disasters: High risk of tsunamis (2009 tsunami caused significant damage), cyclones, earthquakes, flooding.
  • Healthcare: Limited medical facilities; LBJ Tropical Medical Center provides basic care; serious conditions require evacuation to Hawaii.
  • Isolation: Remote location; limited flights (mainly via Hawaii); shipping delays common.
  • Infrastructure: Basic infrastructure; occasional power outages; limited internet speeds; unreliable water supply in some areas.
  • Employment: Limited job market; most positions with government, tuna canneries, or schools; unemployment is high.
  • Cost of living: High costs for imported goods; shipping expenses add significantly to prices.
  • Culture shock: Traditional lifestyle very different from Western norms; adjustment can be challenging.
  • Climate: Constant heat and humidity; mold issues; heavy rainfall.
  • Limited services: Few entertainment options; limited shopping; basic amenities.
  • Dogs: Free-roaming dogs can be aggressive; be cautious.
  • Healthcare for chronic conditions: Limited specialist care available locally.