APIA – Samoan Attorney-General Aumua Ming Leung Wai has denied claims that “Samoa is for sale” through the draft Citizenship Investment Bill 2014.
However, he concedes that amendments need to be made to the Bill before it goes to Parliament.
The Bill in question has raised eyebrows among members of the community since it appears to be offering citizenship for cash.
Contacted for a comment by the Samoa Observer, Mr Aumua clarified what the Draft Citizen Immigration Bill 2014 was about.
“The purpose is to attract foreign investors into Samoa, as part of the government policy on foreign investments in Samoa,” he said.
“Other countries have similar foreign investment policy.
“They either provide permanent residence or citizenship status. Samoa has opted for both i.e. a permanent residence for three years and then the right to apply for citizenship after three years.
“There are strict guidelines in the Bill to ensure that we attract genuine investors into Samoa.
“The Bill contains stringent processes in assessing applications, including thorough background checks on personal and business affairs of potential investors.
“The right can also be taken away if investors do not comply with the investment requirements.”
Asked about the $1million price tag attached to land investment, Mr Aumua said that was the default amount.
“Which (takes) into account the range of areas of investments identified in the Bill,” he said.
