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Work Permits

Here can be found Information for applications of Work Permits for Samoa, including requirements, exemptions, and application processes.

Given below the conditions and requirements are subject to Sections 35, 36, and 49 of the Immigration Act 2004

WORK PERMIT REQUIREMENTS (FOR EMPLOYERS AND EXPATRIATES)

• If the job is a newly established post, that efforts have been made to recruit or find a local person to fill such vacancies and proof if required, should be provided to that effect such as copies of advertisements
• If the position is an existing one, proof must be provided that efforts were made to employ locals in the past, and our officers would check for evidence to that effect, such as wages records, payroll, and other related sources
• The foreign worker should have the required qualifications and proof of such qualifications should be provided
• References or supporting documents/letters from the sponsor and previous employers should also be provided

With Temporary Residents, their Application Forms should be uplifted from the Immigration Services Office. These forms should be filled by the employer with attachment of the Employment Sponsorship Form for assessment of the Immigration Office.

Below is the usual procedure of processing Work Permits Applications:

1. Samoa Immigration receives the completed application
2. Samoa Immigration forwards the application to the Ministry of Commerce Industry and Labour (MCIL)
3. The Ministry (MCIL) evaluates/assess the application within 14 days; [Section 36 (5)]
4. The Ministry (MCIL) makes a recommendation - or provides a written report - on such application, and such report shall approve or reject the application
5. The recommendation or written report is then sent to the Immigration Services Office
6. Approval: If the recommendation by MCIL is for approval of a Work Permit, the Minister - in his discretion - may grant an Entry Permit; [Section 36 (6)]
7. Rejection: If the report recommends rejection of an application, the Minister has no obligation but refuse the application; [Section 36 (7)]
8. Without limiting the discretion and powers of the Minister, the grant of a work permit may include a requirement for the person's employer to employ and train a citizen, or a person holding a Permanent Resident Permit; [Section 36 (8)]

• Receives applications from the Immigration Office and ensures they are fully completed
• Verifies and cross-checks all information stipulated on application forms
• Initiates visits or inspections to work places if required
• Submits reports of investigations initiated and makes recommendations
• Compiles reports of inspections carried out
• Liaise with other officers and sections of MCIL for information on local workforce
• Keeps and maintains a register of work permits which have been both granted or declined
• Files all applications and information received

• Personnel recognised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade as accredited diplomats or officials representing foreign countries or employed in recognised international or regional organizations
• Personnel participating in aid-sponsored programmes as volunteers or where less than full salaries are paid
• Personnel employed in aid funded projects where a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is signed by the Government of Samoa

• Evidence of Investment Certificate issued by Industry Development and Investment Promotion Division of MCIL
• Evidence of Business License issued by Ministry of Revenue
• Evidence of Business Registration from Companies and Intellectual Division of MCIL

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 PDF version of Work Permit Information

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Name: work_permit_info.pdf
Size: 37KB

FURTHER INFORMATION

Should you require further information concerning Work Permits, please contact:

Ministry of Commerce, Industry & Labour
Industrial Relations, Occupational Safety & Health and Work Permits Division
4th Floor
ACC House
Apia SAMOA

Ministry of Commerce, Industry & Labour
Industrial Relations, Occupational Safety & Health and Work Permits Division
P.O. Box 862
Apia SAMOA

Telephone: (+685) 20441
Facsimile: (+685) 20443
Email: mpal@mcil.gov.ws

Or please feel free to see our  Contact Us page.