Sierra Leone
Entry requirements
This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of Sierra Leone’s current rules for the most common types of travel.
The authorities in Sierra Leone set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Sierra Leone High Commission in the UK.
Passport validity requirements
To enter Sierra Leone, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date of your visa application.
Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.
You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.
Visa requirements
You must have a visa to enter Sierra Leone.
Applying for a visa
You can get a visa to visit or for business travel either:
- when you arrive in Sierra Leone for 80 US dollars, paid in cash in US dollars
- before you travel – apply online for an e-visa
Single entry visas are valid for 90 days from date of issuing for visits up to a maximum of 30 days.
Multiple entry visas are valid for 365 days from date of issuing and are valid for multiple separate trips for up to a maximum of 30 days for each visit.
If you’re travelling for a purpose other than a visit or business, you must get a visa before you travel. Contact the Sierra Leone High Commission in the UK.
Vaccine requirements
To enter Sierra Leone, you must have a certificate to prove you’ve had a yellow fever vaccination.
For more details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Sierra Leone guide.
Airport security fee
All passengers must pay a 25 US dollar airport security fee on arrival and departure. You must show proof of payment before immigration. You can pay:
- in advance online through Securipass
- on your mobile through Orange Money or Afrimoney
- at United Bank for Africa or Sierra Leone Commercial Bank
Customs rules
There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Sierra Leone.
You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.
Export of precious stones
You must have an export licence to leave Sierra Leone with precious stones. Check the quality of any gems or minerals you buy. Any deals that appear too good to be true probably are.