Today, November 15th, is when TalofaPass becomes optional for travelers entering the territory.
The online registry is still functioning and travelers have the option of using it to complete their American Samoa Travel Declaration prior to travel for expedited entry.
Those who don’t complete the travel declaration online will be required to complete paper forms upon arrival, at the airport or port.
A new website for the American Samoa Travel Declaration is to go online soon, and a press release about it is forthcoming.
KHJ News used TalofaPass for an upcoming return trip and was approved immediately.
Today is also when the new emergency declaration for COVID-19 goes into effect.
The declaration, which was issued last Thursday, removes the requirement for all travelers to register on TalofaPass and to be fully vaccinated for COVID.
However, the declaration states that “all residents of American Samoa are strongly encouraged to vaccinate to prevent the effects of COVID-19.”
The declaration states any person entering territory must complete a health declaration.
Travelers may complete the American Samoa Travel Declaration online, prior to travel for expedited entry.
Travelers and crew members who do not complete the online registration will be required to complete paper forms upon arrival in American Samoa.
Regarding mask use, the declaration states, “Proper mask use is one of our most important tools to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other serious viruses through our community. Therefore, when attending activities involving contact with other persons, including during transit into American Samoa, the following mask requirements apply:
- Any person who tests positive for COVID-19 must wear a mask for at least 10 days after a positive test or until the person tests negative;
- Any person who has been in close contact with a person or person who recently tested positive for COVID-19 must wear a mask for at least 5 days after the close contact.
- Any person who has a cold, flu, fever or other flu like symptomns including coughing, sneezing, is strongly encouraged to wear a mask until symptoms subside and
- Any person who has a health condition that makes them susceptible to serious ailment from airborne viruses is encouraged to wear a mask
The declaration still gives business and property owners, including any medical or home care facility, the authority to impose additional restrictions necessary to protect employees and customers to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
The declaration will continue until Dec 1. Read the entire declaration herehttps://www.americansamoa.gov/_files/ugd/4bfff9_41c98ffec2954d34bbbe307675ebf26d.pdf
