Sierra Leone has a relatively straightforward visa policy. Many nationalities can enter visa-free for 30–90 days, and an e-visa is available for those who require one. There is no record of Sierra Leone refusing entry to tourists without a criminal or security history.
Who can enter visa-free?
Citizens of ECOWAS member states (Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, Guinea, Ivory Coast, Liberia, Gambia, Cape Verde, Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, Togo, Benin and Guinea-Bissau) can enter Sierra Leone without a visa for up to 90 days.
In addition, a number of Commonwealth countries and bilateral agreement holders can enter visa-free. Always verify with the Sierra Leone Embassy or High Commission in your country before travelling as policies are subject to change.
E-Visa (all other nationalities)
Sierra Leone introduced an e-Visa system that allows most visitors to apply online before arrival. The process is straightforward:
- Apply onlineVisit the official Sierra Leone Immigration Department website. Apply at least 72 hours before travel — 5–7 days is safer.
- Upload documentsPassport bio page, passport-sized photo, return ticket, proof of accommodation (your Yogi booking confirmation works perfectly).
- Pay the feeTourist visa fees are typically $80–100 USD. Paid by card online. Keep your payment receipt.
- Receive approvalApproval is sent by email as a PDF. Print it or have it clearly visible on your phone. Present it alongside your passport at Lungi immigration.
- Arrive and clear immigrationImmigration at Lungi is generally efficient. Have your e-visa, passport, yellow fever certificate and onward ticket ready.
Required documents for all visitors
| Document | Details | Essential? |
|---|---|---|
| Valid passport | Minimum 6 months validity beyond your stay | Yes — mandatory |
| Yellow fever certificate | International certificate of vaccination (ICVP). Required by law. | Yes — mandatory |
| Return/onward ticket | Proof you will leave Sierra Leone | Yes — checked |
| Visa / e-visa | Required if your nationality is not visa-exempt | If required |
| Proof of accommodation | Hotel booking confirmation — Yogi booking works | Recommended |
| Sufficient funds proof | Bank statement or cash — rarely checked for tourists | Recommended |
Sierra Leone will deny entry if you do not have a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate. Get vaccinated at least 10 days before travel. The certificate is valid for life. This applies to all nationalities without exception.
Visa on Arrival
Visa on Arrival (VOA) is available at Lungi International Airport for some nationalities not covered by the e-visa or visa-free arrangement. Fees are payable in USD cash. Queues can be long — the e-visa is strongly recommended over VOA to save time at the airport.
Length of stay and extensions
Tourist visas are typically issued for 30 days with a possible extension of a further 30 days. Extensions are processed through the Sierra Leone Immigration Department office in Freetown. Apply for an extension before your current visa expires — do not overstay.
Important: have accommodation confirmed before you arrive
Immigration officers occasionally ask for proof of where you are staying. Having a confirmed booking at Hariom Yogi Guest House (opposite Lungi Airport) gives you a legitimate first-night address to present. We send booking confirmations by email — keep a screenshot on your phone.