The process of issuing temporary and work permit for foreign employees wanting to work in Samoa is now made easier with the service being brought under one umbrella, the Ministry of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (MPMC) through the Immigration Office. 

In previous years, the issuance of work permit was a function of the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Labour (M.C.I.L.) while entry permits was taken up by M.P.M.C. 

Following Government reforms and review of the service, it was recommended for issuing of temporary and entry permit to come under one umbrella. 

A joint press conference led by M.CI.L. Chief Executive Officer, Pulotu Lyndon Chu Ling and M.P.M.C. Chief Executive Officer Agafili Shem Leo was held at the Fiame Mataafa Mulinu’u II building Thursday to announce the changes. 

Agafili said the change basically means members of the public will be making inquiries and submitting information for work and entry permits to one office. 

On the other hand, M.C.I.L. will still be working “behind the scene” in collaboration with M.P.M.C. in due diligence assessment to ensure all legal requirements are met to satisfy issuance of temporary and work permit.  

“In doing so those who apply for work permits and entry permits will have one door and ministry to go to,” said Agafili.  

“If you wish to apply for work and entry permit it will be channeled through M.P.M.C.

“All required information; forms, documentations will be issued and done through M.P.M.C. and this is the arrangement with M.C.I.L. in terms of ensuring assessment is done according to government policies and law.” 

 Agafili said in this case the change is improving service of government that was channeled through the two government ministries. 

Pulotu agreed. 

He said the process is now being simplified and will also mean the cost of the applications decreased. 

As he pointed out before when it was under two different ministries there were separate costs but now it is put together that cost has reduced to $1,200 per application. 

Pulotu acknowledged the contribution of the stakeholders who raised concerns over the matter and has been taken into account by making the changes. He also noted the ongoing partnership with M.C.I.L. and M.P.M.C. now