%2520CREDIT%2520AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com.webp%3F2025-09-08T21%3A44%3A24.850Z&w=3840&q=100)
A Guide to Using Foreign Credit and Debit Cards in American Samoa
Secure and easy to use, credit and debit cards are popular payment methods when travelling. The peace of mind of having that extra bit of overdraft, should you need it in an emergency, is a major drawcard for using credit cards overseas, while being able to use the same debit card you use at home is also super convenient.
There are, however, a few things you need to know about using foreign credit and debit cards in American Samoa LINK#TT038; the main one is that card payments should not be your main source of payment!
Cash is king in American Samoa, as explained in What is the Best Way to Pay in American Samoa?
If you want to use your credit or debit card for at least part of your trip, however, we will go over what type of bank cards can be used, where you can use them, and outline the surcharges in this complete guide to using credit and debit cards in American Samoa.
Table of Contents
Frequently Asked Questions About Using Your Credit or Debit Card in American Samoa
Before we jump into the different payment methods in American Samoa, here are the answers to the internet's frequently asked questions about using credit and debit cards in American Samoa!
Can I use my credit card in American Samoa?
Yes, you can use your credit card in American Samoa, but acceptance is limited compared to mainland United States. Major hotels, restaurants in Pago Pago, and some larger shops accept Visa and Mastercard. However, most smaller businesses, transport operators and remote areas operate on a cash-only basis.
For more information, check out our American Samoa Payment Methods Guide.
Are there ATMs in American Samoa?
Yes, there are ATMs available in American Samoa, primarily located in Pago Pago and around the main commercial areas of Tutuila. You'll find ATMs at the territory's only bank, the Territorial Bank of American Samoa. However, ATMs are scarce on the Manu'a Islands, so it's essential to withdraw cash before travelling there.
What currency is used in American Samoa?
American Samoa uses the US dollar (USD) as its official currency. This makes it convenient for American travellers, as there's no need for currency exchange. All prices are displayed in US dollars, and you can use US cash, coins and cards just as you would in the mainland United States.
For more information, check out the American Samoa Currency Guide.
Should I notify my bank before travelling to American Samoa?
Yes, you should definitely notify your bank before travelling to American Samoa. Even though it's a US territory, many banks' fraud detection systems may flag transactions from the Pacific region as suspicious. Contact your bank or credit card company to inform them of your travel dates and destination to avoid having your cards blocked.
Are there foreign transaction fees in American Samoa?
Yes, there are foreign transaction fees, even when using US-issued cards in American Samoa, since they use a local bank, Territorial Bank of American Samoa.
Can I use contactless payments in American Samoa?
Contactless payments are very limited in American Samoa. Some modern establishments in Pago Pago accept tap-to-pay cards but do not accept mobile payments like Apple Pay or Google Pay. It's best to carry cash and traditional cards as backup payment methods.
For more information, check out our American Samoa Payment Methods Guide.
What should I do if my card doesn't work in American Samoa?
If your card doesn't work, first try a different ATM or card reader, as some machines may be temporarily out of service. Contact your bank immediately to ensure your card hasn't been blocked for security reasons. Always carry multiple payment methods, including cash, as backup.
Which Credit and Debit Cards are Accepted in American Samoa?
Certain types of credit and debit cards are accepted in American Samoa, including major brands, as long as there is a four-digit PIN encoded.
Bank cards that are the most accepted in American Samoa include:
- MasterCard
Fewer outlets and ATMs also accept:
- Visa
- American Express
- Diners
- Discover
However, there are some credit card brands that will not be accepted in American Samoa. Avoid using credit cards from the following brands:
- JCB
- Cirrus
- Union
- Plus Card.
Where Can You Use Credit and Debit Cards in American Samoa?
Many major hotels and supermarkets on Tutuila accept credit and debit cards. However, there are many instances in American Samoa where you will only be able to pay with cash.
Where You Can Use Cards to Pay in American Samoa
Major hotels like Tradewinds and Sadies By The Sea accept card payments, as do supermarkets such as Cost U Less and KS Mart. Most grocery stores, restaurants and cafés on Tutuila also accept credit and debit cards.
Where You Can't Use Cards to Pay in American Samoa
Some places where credit and debit cards are not accepted include most accommodations, taxis, bus services, markets, tour operators, alia boat operators and some smaller convenience stores. In short, it's always a good idea to have the cash available to pay your way through your holiday.
ATMs in American Samoa
There are more than 20 ATMs in American Samoa, mostly found in Pago Pago, Tafuna and various shopping centres and stores across Tutuila. Several locations offer 24-hour access, including Pago Plaza, Laufou Shopping Center and LBJ Hospital.
You'll also find ATMs at Ofu Airport on Ofu Island and at Fitiuta Lodge Store on Ta'ū Island in the Manu'a Islands.
See a full list of ATM locations in Information, Shops & Services in American Samoa LINK#TTD096.
Credit Card Charges in American Samoa
Seasoned travellers will know that the bank issuing your credit or debit card often has a fee for a "foreign currency service" or something similar each time you make a transaction overseas. Check with your bank what the percentage is for using your credit card in American Samoa. It's usually a fee of 1-3% of the transaction in your home currency. This fee is also usually applied when using an ATM in American Samoa.
Another credit card fee you may experience in American Samoa is a surcharge implemented by local businesses. Many businesses in American Samoa apply a foreign credit or debit card fee of 3-5% per cent on each transaction and/or require customers to spend a minimum of US$10 to use a credit/debit card.
Additionally, a withdrawal fee is applied when using an overseas bank card at an ATM in American Samoa. The fee can be anywhere between US$5-$10 per withdrawal, so it's best to withdraw as much cash as you're comfortable carrying.
Because of the additional fees applied to foreign card transactions, we recommend using other payment methods to pay your way around American Samoa. Find out more in What is the Best Way to Pay in American Samoa?
More About Using Debit and Credit Cards in American Samoa
That’s it for our guide to credit and debit cards in American Samoa, but it is by no means the end of our advice! Check out the following guides for more advice on ways to pay:
- What is the Best Way to Pay in American Samoa?
- The Best Place to Exchange Money in American Samoa
- 20 Tips to Save Money in American Samoa
Finally, get more essential tips for your trip to American Samoa using the 30 Tips for Travelling in American Samoa LINK#TT042.
