Opposition Leader Tuilaepa Sa'ilele Malielegaoi has called on the government to resolve visa-related issues affecting Samoans traveling to New Zealand, following recent announcements of substantial fee hikes.

At a recent press conference, Tuilaepa expressed deep frustration within the Samoan community regarding the anticipated visa fee increases, scheduled to take effect in October. 

The proposed fee hikes, which could see increases for various visa categories, have sparked widespread dissatisfaction. Tuilaepa pointed out that the rising costs are a significant burden, exacerbating the delays that already plague the visa application process.

Tuilaepa criticised the government for its perceived focus on revenue generation rather than addressing public grievances. He argued that the government's approach reflects a lack of genuine concern for the challenges faced by Samoans. 

This criticism was part of a broader narrative pushed by the Human Rights Protection Party (H.R.P.P.). They are advocating for the restoration of citizenship revoked under the Western Samoa Citizenship Act of 1982. 

"Our plea to the government is to support the restoration of our people’s citizenships," Tuilaepa said. "With citizenship restored, the bureaucratic hurdles and financial strain of visa applications could be avoided."

The increase in visa fees follows an announcement from the New Zealand Government aimed at improving the immigration system's efficiency, sustainability, and self-funding capabilities.