Samoa

Samoa presents an intriguing prospect for high-net-worth investors seeking a second residency or citizenship. As an independent nation in the South Pacific, it offers a serene tropical environment and a unique Polynesian culture. The country’s economic development initiatives, coupled with its stable political environment, create opportunities for investment in sectors such as tourism, agriculture, and renewable energy. With its natural beauty and investment potential, Samoa appeals to investors seeking diversification and lifestyle enhancement.

SAMOA CITIZENSHIP BY INVESTMENT

Samoa’s Citizenship by Investment programme allows high-net-worth investors to obtain citizenship through qualifying investments, providing benefits like visa-free travel and access to the South Pacific region. Established in 2017, all investors must have a minimum net worth of SAT$2.5 million ($1 million USD) and invest a minimum of $1.5 million USD in either real estate, significant areas of the Samoan economy, or a government fund.

Investors may want to compare the neighbouring South Pacific island of Vanuatu, which has offered citizenship by investment since 2017. Following a minimum government donation investors can gain honorary citizenship and become holders of a Vanuatu passport which grants investors visa-free access to 148 countries and territories worldwide.

SAMOA RESIDENCY BY INVESTMENT

Prospective investors seeking Samoa citizenship may receive a Temporary Resident Permit lasting three years upon application approval. To maintain eligibility for permanent residency, investors and accompanying family members must reside in Samoa for at least 15 days within the three-year permit period.

For more established residency-by-investment programmes investors are encouraged to explore the golden visa programmes in Europe. For example the Greek Golden Visa programme, initiated in July 2013, grants high-net-worth individuals visa-free travel throughout the Schengen zone and residency in a European state. There are also options in Portugal and Spain. 

SAMOA PASSPORT STRENGTH AND RANKING

Samoa ranks 88th on La Vida’s comprehensive Global Passport Ranking. With visa-free travel to 144 countries, it represents 39.7% of global wealth (GDP) and 62.6% of worldwide travel.

The Caribbean nations that offer citizenship by investment programmes have much stronger passports. Grenada is a good example of where citizenship can be acquired through investment. The Grenada passport holds 62nd position on La Vida’s comprehensive Global Passport Ranking and would be a better citizenship solution for high-net-worth individuals seeking global travel freedom