Online Forex trading in Samoa is legal and regulated under the Central Bank of Samoa Act 2015, which grants authority to administer exchange control. Exchange Control covers the regulation of foreign exchange transactions between Samoa and the rest of the world, including the buying and selling of foreign currency. The Central Bank of Samoa licenses and supervises authorised foreign exchange dealers including commercial banks, money transfer operators, and money changers who conduct foreign exchange businesses within a regulated framework (1).
There are no restrictions on foreign exchange for most current transactions, though prior approval from the Central Bank of Samoa is required for all capital account-related transactions. Repatriation of capital and profit remittances in foreign capital is permitted although it must be approved by CBS based on submission of necessary documents. Foreign investors can undertake foreign exchange transactions for payment of fees to foreign parties, repayments of principal and interest on foreign loans, and remittances subject to CBS approval (2).
"Exchange Control covers the regulation of foreign exchange transactions between Samoa and the rest of the world, including the buying and selling of foreign currency in Samoa. These regulations assist the Central Bank of Samoa to monitor capital inflows and control capital outflows."
The Central Bank has progressively relaxed exchange control policies since the liberalization of the financial system in January 1998, regularly reviewing guidelines to reflect prevailing financial and liquidity conditions. Transferability of funds for current account transactions has largely eased over the years, with increased delegated authority limits to authorized foreign exchange dealers. Processing times for applications requiring CBS approval generally take up to three days when submitted with relevant documentation (1).
Source:
https://cbs.gov.ws/media/CBS-Exchange-Control-Information-Booklet-2024.pdf
https://mcil.gov.ws/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Samoa-NIPS-2021-FINAL-11.06.21.pdf
Last updated: 15-10-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
