Offshore: Samoa

Guide for Offshore Corporate Services in Samoa

Samoa was first sighted by Jacob Roggeveen in 1722 and later by Louis-Antoine de Bougainville in 1768, who named the islands the “Navigator Islands.” The Independent State of Samoa, formerly Western Samoa until 1997, consists of nine volcanic islands, with Savai’i and Upolu forming over 99% of the land area. Samoa was governed by New Zealand until independence was achieved in 1961 and joined the UN in 1976.

In 1878, the United States established a naval station in Pago Pago Harbour, and in 1899 colonial powers divided Samoa: Germany took the western islands, and the United States took the eastern islands (American Samoa).

Samoa is known as the “Cradle of Polynesia,” with culture centered on Fa’a Samoa—faith, family, and music. The islands lie between Hawaii and New Zealand, covering 2,842 km², and are mainly inhabited by ethnic Samoans. The islands are volcanic, ringed by coral reefs, and have fertile but erosion-prone soils.

Infrastructure

Samoa’s main resources include agricultural lands, fisheries, and its tropical climate. Hydroelectric power supplies most of the energy. About two-fifths of roads are paved. International flights connect Samoa to American Samoa, Fiji, New Zealand, Australia, and Japan. Shipping routes link Samoa with Hawaii, California, Fiji, New Zealand, and Australia. Telecommunications include telephone networks, undersea cable, and satellite connections.

Economy

Samoa’s economy grew from agricultural exports and traditional village structures. Tourism, services, and light manufacturing increased after 1950. Remittances from Samoans abroad contribute significantly to household income. Agriculture accounts for two-fifths of GDP, with major crops including coconuts, taro, pineapples, and mangoes. Samoa maintains a negative trade balance, with main partners including New Zealand, China, Australia, the United States, and Japan.

Legal Framework

Samoa adopted its constitution in 1962, creating a parliamentary government that blends Samoan and New Zealand traditions.

Central Bank

The Central Bank of Samoa, established in 1984, regulates the money supply. Offshore financial services began in 1988.

Anti-Money Laundering

Samoa has no major issues with organized crime or money laundering. The 2015 MER reported progress, with improved ratings in key recommendations. Samoa is not blacklisted by OECD or FATF and is a member of the Asia/Pacific Group on Money Laundering (APG).

Corporate Entities

Samoa offers a strong offshore jurisdiction. SIFA regulates the sector under legislation including:

• International Companies Act 1987
• International Trusts Act 1987
• Offshore Banking Act 1987
• International Insurance Act 1988

Taxation

All Samoan offshore companies are exempt from local taxation, including taxes on profits, capital gains, transactions, and contracts.

Offshore Company Registration

SIFA offers two formation structures:

• International Company (IC)
• Limited Life Company (LLC)

Samoa’s offshore companies are tax-exempt, do not require filing of accounts, and are exempt from auditing. Corporate legislation ensures confidentiality and minimal formation requirements.

Permitted Activities

Offshore companies may conduct:

• Consulting and advisory services
• Trading
• Holding and selling shares
• Commission agency services
• Property ownership
• Ship management
• Investments and joint ventures
• International and professional services

General Features of Samoa Offshore Entities

• Legal Entity: IC
• Government Fees: USD 300
• Corporate Taxation: None on foreign profits
• Currency: USD
• Authorized Capital: USD 1,000,000
• Bearer & No-Par Shares: Allowed

Corporate Requirements:

• Minimum one director; corporate directorship allowed
• Minimum one member
• No residency requirements
• Meetings can be held anywhere
• Company secretary required
• Accounts prepared but not filed; no audit
• No annual return required
• Change of domicile allowed

Specific Features

• Currency: Samoan Dollar (WST)
• Languages: Samoan and English
• Exchange Control: None
• Legislation: International Companies Act and related acts

Restrictions:

• Cannot trade with Samoans or own local real estate
• Cannot conduct banking, insurance, fund management, or trust services without a license

Company Powers: Equivalent to a natural person
Registered Office: Mandatory in Samoa
Naming Restrictions: No offensive, undesirable, or government-associated names

Beneficial Ownership Disclosure: Not required

Please refer to our SERVICES for more details or CONTACT US to access offshore company formation and related services.