Samoa, a tropical paradise of lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and vibrant Polynesian culture, offers a serene island escape. Whether you’re swimming in the To Sua Ocean Trench, exploring the cultural heritage of Apia, or hiking to stunning waterfalls, knowing how to access cash is important. While some hotels and businesses accept cards, cash remains the primary payment method, especially in rural villages and local markets. This guide provides essential details on cash and ATMs in Samoa, including withdrawal fees, transaction limits, exchange rates, and card acceptance, ensuring a smooth and worry-free trip.
Where to find ATMs in Samoa?
You can find ATMs in Samoa in –
- Urban Areas: In Apia, the capital city, ATMs are accessible at various locations, including bank branches and shopping centers. Major banks such as BSP (Bank South Pacific), ANZ, and the National Bank of Samoa operate in the region.
- Tourist Spots: Popular destinations like Faleolo International Airport, Mulifanua Wharf, and Salelologa have ATMs available, often within or near tourist facilities. It’s advisable to carry some cash, as smaller establishments may not accept cards.
- But in Rural Areas i.e. in smaller villages and remote regions, ATM availability can be limited. It’s recommended to withdraw cash in larger towns before traveling to these areas.
Best ATMs to use in Samoa for foreigners
The best ATMs for foreigners to use in Samoa are those owned by popular banks such as:
- Bank of South Pacific (BSP),
- ANZ, and
- National Bank of Samoa.
There are other banks with ATMs that also accept international debit and credit cards.
There are no known Global ATM Alliance member banks or All Points network banks in Samoa.
Don’t accept conversion at ATMs and withdraw only in local currency
In Samoa, some ATMs may ask – Accept OR Decline Conversion (also known as With or Without Conversion, or, Charge in WST).
- If you ‘Accept’ – ATM converts your money at ATM’s set exchange rate. Now if you ‘Accept’, you pay an extra % fee to the ATM for currency conversion also.
- If you Decline, the ATM will convert at exchange rate of the bank/card logo (Visa, Master, etc.).
So, to avoid extra fees, select ‘Decline/Without’ Conversion or ‘Charge in WST’.
Can I use a foreign debit or credit card at an ATM in Samoa?
Yes, many foreign debit and credit cards are widely accepted at ATMs in Samoa. ATMs commonly accept Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, Plus, Cirrus cards. Note – some bank ATMs accept only Mastercard. Some of them also accept UnionPay cards. Others like American Express, Diners, Discover and Rupay cards are generally not accepted.
What are the ATM opening hours
Most ATMs operate 24/7.
What are ATMs called
ATMs in Samoa are usually found by a signage of word ‘ATM’ is widely used or signage has bank name without the words ‘ATM’.
Language options at ATMs
ATMs in Samoa primarily present English as the main language, reflecting its widespread use in official settings and tourism. Some ATMs may also offer Samoan, the national language. If you’re not familiar with these languages, using live translation via Google Translate’s camera function can be handy; however, proceed cautiously, as translations may not be perfect.
What currencies can I withdraw from ATMs in Samoa?
ATMs in Samoa dispense cash only in the local currency, Samoan Tala (WST).
ATM withdrawal limits in Samoa?
ATMs in Samoa have a maximum withdrawal limit per transaction of WST 2,000 per transaction. Most ATMs do not have daily withdrawal limits.
ATM Fees in Samoa
There are no fee-free ATMs in Samoa. Majority of the Bank ATMs in Samoa charge WST 15 per transaction as ATM Access Fees to foreign card holders. So there are no fee-free options of ATMs you can use in Samoa as a foreign cardholder.
Apart from ATM Access Fees, there can be other potential charges to withdraw cash in Samoa. These are:
1. Currency Conversion Fees (Accept or Decline Conversion)
2. Your Bank’s currency conversion fee – Some banks charge the card holder a fee to use the card abroad. Cross check with your bank on what the charges are.
How to avoid high fees when withdrawing cash in Samoa
Use the lower fee ATMs in the country.
Use the ATM Fee Saver app to find fee-free or low-fee ATMs.
Opt for “Decline Conversion” or “Without Conversion” during ATM transactions.
Consider getting fee-free cards from your home country.
Avoid using ATMs at the airports, sometimes they have higher fees.
Ways to find fee-free ATMs in Samoa?
Discover fee-free and low-fee ATMs on the ATM Fee Saver mobile app for iOS and Android. This app provides ATM PINs and details of leading bank ATMs such as ATM fees and withdrawal limits for foreign cardholders at ATMs in Samoa. Moreover, its simple fee calculator helps you determine exact withdrawal charges. You can also find cash tips and tricks on the app for 100+ countries including Samoa.
Safety at ATMs
Samoa is generally considered a safe destination for travelers, and ATMs are available in urban areas, particularly in Apia and popular tourist regions. However, instances of petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, have been reported, especially in crowded markets and public transportation hubs. To minimize potential risks:
- Choose Secure Locations: Use ATMs located within bank premises or reputable establishments.
- Stay Vigilant: Be cautious of your surroundings and avoid displaying large amounts of cash after withdrawals.
- Carry Backup Cash: Due to occasional technical issues with ATMs, it’s advisable to have some cash on hand as a backup.
- Monitor Your Accounts: Regularly check your bank statements to detect any unauthorized transactions promptly.
FAQs
What to do if an ATM takes your card?
If an ATM takes your card, contact the bank (if you used an ATM inside a bank branch), they may retreive your card if you have proof of identity. You can also contact the bank’s helpline but they usually retreive and resend new cards only for their own customers. If so, you’ll need to contact your own bank and ask them to deliver a new card at home or abroad.
Fee-free ATMs and possible to withdraw cash free of cost at ATMs in Samoa?
No, its not possible. There are no fee-free ATMs in Samoa. Majority of the Bank ATMs in Samoa charge WST 15 per transaction as ATM Access Fees to foreign card holders. So there are no fee-free options you can use in Samoa as a foreign cardholder.
Foreign cards from US, UK, India, China, Europe, Australia accepted?
Absolutely yes! You can usually use cards from the US, UK, Europe, Australia, and other countries at ATMs in Samoa.
Bitcoin ATMs
As of now, there are no known Bitcoin ATMs operating in Samoa.
Foreign bank ATMs’ presence in Samoa
Bank of America: No, there are no Bank of America ATMs here.
Citibank: No Citibank ATMs.
Barclays: No Barclays ATMs.
HSBC: There are no HSBC ATMs here.
Standard Chartered: No Standard Chartered ATMs here.
