Emergency Help Abroad – Samoa

Crime & Legal Awareness

A concise overview of the key laws, legal expectations and enforcement practices travellers should understand before visiting Samoa — including behaviours that may be acceptable in the UK but carry stricter penalties or different interpretations abroad.

1. STRICT DRUG, WEAPON & ALCOHOL LAWS

• Possession or trafficking of illegal drugs is treated very seriously, with long prison sentences and no leniency for visitors.

• Carrying weapons, ammunition or military-style equipment without authorisation is illegal.

• Drink-driving is strictly enforced — penalties include fines, arrest and vehicle confiscation.

• Public drunkenness is frowned upon culturally and may result in police intervention or fines.

• Supplying alcohol to minors or drinking in prohibited areas can lead to penalties.

2. RESPECT FOR CULTURE, PUBLIC MORALS & ENVIRONMENT

• Samoa’s fa’a Samoa culture emphasises respect — inappropriate behaviour, attire or language may cause offence.

• Many villages require modest dress, especially near churches or community spaces.

• Public indecency, nudity or explicit behaviour is prohibited.

• Littering or damaging natural areas, beaches or village property may result in fines.

• Removing cultural artefacts, handicrafts or traditional items without permission is considered disrespectful and can be illegal.

3. PUBLIC BEHAVIOUR & CIVIL ORDER

• Police may ask for identification — carry your passport or a photocopy and your entry card.

• Public arguments, aggression or loud confrontations are strongly discouraged and may lead to police involvement.

• Theft and bag-snatching can occur in Apia and busy tourist areas — stay alert.

• Avoid political gatherings or protests; these can become sensitive topics in village communities.

• Failure to follow village rules or church-related restrictions may result in being asked to leave the area.

4. TRAVEL, TRANSPORT & ADMINISTRATIVE OFFENCES

• Driving without a valid licence or temporary Samoan driving permit is illegal.

• Road accidents must be reported; leaving the scene is a serious offence.

• Many roads lack lighting — driving after dark increases accident risk.

• Using unlicensed taxis or informal transportation may lead to disputes or safety issues.

• Overstaying visas or breaking entry/exit rules can lead to fines or delays leaving Samoa.

5. PHOTOGRAPHY, DRONE & SECURITY RESTRICTIONS

• Photographing villagers — particularly chiefs or elders — requires permission.

• Using drones without authorisation is prohibited; many villages and cultural sites do not allow drone use at all.

• Avoid photographing police stations, security buildings or government facilities.

• Some cultural ceremonies, church services or sacred sites forbid photography.

• Filming conflict, accidents or village disputes may cause offence or police involvement.

6. ENVIRONMENTAL & SAFETY LAWS

• Removing coral, shells, marine life or sand from beaches and reefs is illegal.

• Feeding or disturbing marine animals, including turtles, is prohibited in many protected zones.

• Entering marine reserves without permission or outside designated areas can result in fines.

• Beach fires or open flames require permission and may be restricted during dry seasons.

• Ignoring safety warnings about strong tides, cyclones or flash floods can put you at serious risk.

7. RESPECT FOR NATURE, CULTURE & HERITAGE SITES

• Climbing on sacred sites, lava fields, burial grounds or cultural monuments is forbidden.

• Removing stones or natural materials from heritage areas is prohibited.

• Damaging village property, community structures or traditional fale is a serious offence.

• Entering private or village-owned land without permission may cause conflict with local leaders.

• Disregarding conservation rules at natural reserves, waterfalls or national parks may result in fines or removal from the site.

What You Shouldn’t Do - Behaviours Travellers Should Avoid.

These are important behaviours and actions to avoid to stay respectful, safe and aligned with local expectations. Remember that what feels informal or familiar in the UK may be understood quite differently in Samoa.

• Don’t buy, use or transport illegal drugs — penalties are severe.

• Don’t disrespect fa’a Samoa customs, especially in villages.

• Don’t dress immodestly near churches, villages or community gatherings.

• Don’t drink alcohol in prohibited areas or become drunk in public.

• Don’t walk alone at night in isolated or poorly lit areas.

• Don’t use unlicensed taxis or informal transport.

• Don’t take photos of people without permission, particularly chiefs or elders.

• Don’t remove shells, coral or natural materials from beaches or marine reserves.

• Don’t ignore tsunami, cyclone or high-tide warnings.

• Don’t swim alone in rough seas — strong currents are common.

• Don’t trespass on private or village-owned land.

• Don’t take drones into villages or cultural sites without permission.

• Don’t expose valuables — theft can occur in busy areas.

• Don’t rely solely on card payments — have cash for villages and small shops.

• Don’t attempt to settle disputes directly — involve local authorities or your accommodation.

• Don’t disrespect church services, especially on Sundays (quietness is expected).

• Don’t overstay your visa or ignore entry stamp rules.

• Don’t engage in political discussions or attend protests.

• Don’t photograph government buildings or security facilities.

• Don’t accept food or drink from strangers without caution.