Samoans are uniting to demand visa-free access between Samoa, New Zealand, and Australia, with nearly a thousand people signing a petition since its launch on 27 January 2025. 

Spearheaded by a Samoan matai based in Auckland, the petition calls for the removal of visa restrictions that the organisers argue hinder travel and reinforce unnecessary bureaucratic barriers, despite the longstanding contributions of Samoans to both countries.

The petition’s description underscores the irony of Samoa's visa-free agreement with China, a nation with a population of over a billion, while New Zealand and Australia—two of Samoa’s closest neighbours—continue to impose stringent visa requirements. 

"Why is there still reluctance by NZ and Australia to be visa-free with Samoa?" the petition asks, highlighting the significant role Samoans have played in various sectors in both countries. From agriculture to manufacturing, culture, sports, and academia, Samoans have enriched New Zealand and Australia in countless ways.

The petition goes on to remind the New Zealand government of its historical oversight regarding Samoans’ citizenship rights. 

In 1982, New Zealand revoked the citizenship of many Samoans, a move that was only recently corrected. While this legal wrong has been addressed for some, it came too late for many individuals and does not extend to their descendants. 

The petition suggests that granting visa-free access would be a meaningful step toward reconciliation for this historical injustice.

Supporters of the petition argue that Samoans’ contributions to New Zealand and Australia over the years should warrant reciprocal treatment of visa access. The petition outlines several areas where Samoans have made lasting impacts, including labour and workforce, culture and arts, sports and entertainment, academia and leadership. 

The petition also highlights New Zealand’s unique "Treaty of Friendship" with Samoa, established in 1962 to foster a special and lasting relationship between the two nations. 

However, critics argue that current immigration policies contradict the spirit of this agreement, especially when comparing Samoa’s visa requirements to those of other countries with lesser historical or cultural ties.

Visa restrictions and long processing times have been a sore point for many Samoans.

Just last week, opposition leader and former prime minister Tuilaepa Sa'ilele Malielegaoi criticised New Zealand’s immigration office in Samoa for its “racist” policies, claiming that applicants often face extended delays, with some waiting weeks for visa approvals. 

He also criticised the office’s limited hours of operation and the overwhelming demand for appointments, which he said compounded the challenges.

Several travel agents have also voiced concerns, reporting that clients regularly endure long waiting periods before receiving visa approvals. 

These frustrations were echoed by Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata'afa, who also serves as the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade. 

In response to Tuilaepa’s comments in parliament, Fiame acknowledged the ongoing discussions between New Zealand, Samoa, and Australia regarding these issues. She assured the public that efforts are being made to ease travel arrangements and that the matter continues to be raised in bilateral meetings between the governments.

The petition, which has garnered significant support, is more than just a plea for easier travel; it’s a call for fairness, equality, and recognition of the deep and longstanding relationship that exists between Samoa, New Zealand, and Australia.