Common topic
Samoan Quota Scheme
Published
04 August 2025
Immigration policy recognises the special relationship between New Zealand and Samoa as expressed in the Treaty of Friendship between the two nations.
The Samoan Quota Scheme allows up to 1,100 Samoan citizens, selected by ballot, to be granted residence in New Zealand each year.
| Submitted year | Total applications |
|---|---|
| 2024 | 533 |
| 2025 | 728 |
| Total | 1,261 |
To qualify for residence under this scheme the applicant must
- be a Samoan citizen (born there or overseas to a Samoan citizen),
- be aged between 18 and 45,
- have had their registration number drawn from the Samoan Quota ballot and
- have been invited to apply for residence by Immigration New Zealand
- have an acceptable and sustainable full time and permanent job offer from a New Zealand employer.