Entry requirements for Sierra Leone

Entering Sierra Leone requires careful preparation and compliance with a number of important rules and requirements. This country, located on the west coast of Africa, offers travelers unique natural beauty and cultural attractions. However, in order for your trip to go smoothly and without unpleasant surprises, it is important to familiarize yourself with the necessary procedures in advance.

In this section of our website, you will find all the information you need about the process of entering Sierra Leone. Here we detail the visa requirements, necessary immunizations and health recommendations. You'll find out what documents are required for traveling with children and pets, as well as information on customs regulations and restrictions.

We will also provide information on German diplomatic missions abroad that can assist you in emergency situations and provide the necessary consular services.

This section will help you prepare for your trip and make your journey to Sierra Leone safe and enjoyable.

Most foreign nationals need to apply for a visa to visit Sierra Leone. However, there are countries that are on the visa-free list with Sierra Leone, and citizens of these countries can visit Sierra Leone without a visa. The list of visa-free countries can change, so it is recommended to check the current information before planning a trip

Electronic visas are issued online. Tourist, business and work visas are issued at the Embassy of Sierra Leone. On our website on Visas page you can find out what kind of visa you need and order it. We will prepare all the necessary documents for you, and you will only have to get a ready visa. The validity of your passport must be at least six months from the date of entry into the country.

The Department of Migration is responsible for obtaining a residence permit in Sierra Leone. According to the country's legislation, residence permits are granted to employees of companies registered in Sierra Leone, the self-employed, students and dependents.

When planning a trip to Sierra Leone, it is important to pay special attention to immunizations to ensure your safety and health.

Vaccination against hepatitis A and B is also recommended, as these diseases are common in the region and can be transmitted through contaminated food and water. Typhoid vaccination is also important to prevent water and foodborne infections.

Vaccinations against meningococcal disease, especially if you plan to visit densely populated areas, and vaccinations against tetanus and diphtheria are relevant for all travelers. In some cases, malaria prophylaxis is recommended, which includes taking antimalarial drugs, using repellents and mosquito nets.

Before traveling, you should consult your doctor for personalized recommendations on vaccinations and other precautions to help make your trip safe and enjoyable.

Traveling with children to Sierra Leone is a unique experience that can be full of experiences and adventures. First of all, you need to consider all the necessary safety and preparation measures. Before traveling, make sure your children have the necessary immunizations and are healthy. Also, carry a medical kit with basic medications.

When making arrangements for children to enter Sierra Leone, make sure you have the proper documentation. If children are traveling with both parents, no entry permit is required. However, if the child is traveling alone or with one parent, a notarized parental consent with an English translation is required. You can order translation and notarization of documents on our website. Also, each child must have a passport with validity of at least 6 months at the time of entry, as well as a visa.

Traveling with children also requires good preparation and planning. Choose hotels or resorts that have a family atmosphere and are kid-friendly. Research local attractions and activities that will appeal to your children to make the trip even more exciting and memorable for the whole family.

Traveling with pets in Sierra Leone requires certain rules and documents. First of all, an international veterinary certificate must be obtained before traveling to Sierra Leone to confirm the health of your pet. The certificate should include vaccinations, especially rabies vaccinations, and be translated into English. It is also advisable to have preventative treatment against parasites and ensure that all necessary medication is available in case of an emergency.

Traveling with a dog requires additional preparation. Make sure the airline allows transportation of animals and familiarize yourself with their policies. Usually, dogs are transported in special cages that meet safety and comfort requirements. Also remember to take care of water and food for your pet for the duration of the flight.

Upon arrival in Sierra Leone, be prepared to undergo veterinary inspection at the airport. It is important to carry all the necessary documents and certificates. Your dog must be registered with customs to avoid potential problems.

Sierra Leone offers a variety of pet-friendly accommodation options, including hotels and guesthouses. Check in advance for dog-friendly accommodations and make sure your pet will be comfortable.

When traveling around the country, follow basic safety rules: keep your dog on a leash in public areas, avoid contact with wild animals and check on your dog's health regularly. Many beaches and parks in Sierra Leone are great for walking and outdoor play.

The Customs Department of the National Revenue Authority is responsible for controlling the importation and exportation of goods. These processes are regulated under the Sierra Leone Customs Act of 2011.

• Up to 200 cigarettes or up to 250 grams of tobacco, up to 1 liter of spirits and up to 2 liters of dry wine are allowed to be imported duty free.
• To export rough gemstones and gold, it is necessary to obtain authorization from the Ministry of Finance of Sierra Leone and provide proof of payment of the relevant duties and fees. The importation of gold in bars, plates or scrap, as well as precious stones is prohibited without proper authorization from the Ministry of Finance.
• Export of ivory, precious wood and jewelry with precious stones may require permits and a customs declaration. It is advisable to keep receipts and avoid buying items of historical value in markets.
• Import and export of any type of arms and ammunition requires a permit from the Sierra Leone Police Headquarters and the Ministry of Defense.
• The importation and exportation of motor vehicles is permitted provided that the necessary customs duties and fees are paid.
• Cash in excess of US$10,000 must be declared to the Central Bank of Sierra Leone.
• The importation of psychotropic drugs and narcotics, explosives, arms and ammunition, and obscene publications is prohibited.

There are no direct flights from Germany to Sierra Leone. Airlines flying to Sierra Leone include Air France (AF), Turkish Airlines (TK), Royal Air Maroc (AT), Brussels Airlines (SN), Kenya Airways (KQ), ASKY Airlines (KP), Air Senegal (SZN) and Air Peace (P4). Lungi International Airport in Freetown offers direct flights to several European cities including Brussels, Paris and Istanbul. A connecting flight from Germany to Sierra Leone will take from 12 hours. We recommend checking the visa requirements of transit countries on our website. You can also contact us for advice by leaving a request on our website.

Transit areas at Sierra Leone Airport offer comfortable facilities for passengers making connections. Lungi International Airport, the country's main airport, provides modern facilities for transit passengers. Here you will find cozy lounges, cafes and duty-free stores to brighten up your time before your flight.

Comfortable seating and lounge areas are provided for passengers waiting for their flight. Free Wi-Fi and charging stations for mobile devices are also available in transit areas. Travelers can use the information desks where they will be provided with the necessary assistance and advice.

Transit zones provide security and comfort, creating a conducive environment for a relaxing wait for a flight.

A Sierra Leone transit visa is not required for passengers with a confirmed ticket for a flight to a third country if their stay is not more than 24 hours. They must stay in the international transit area of the airport and carry all necessary documents for their next destination.

The German Embassy in Sierra Leone is located in Freetown.

Address: 3, Middle Hill Station, Freetown

Postal address: Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany, P. O. Box 728, Freetown, Sierra Leone

Opening hours: Monday to Friday, by appointment

Phone: +232 73 33 33 88 (8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Fridays until 1:00 p.m.)

The German Embassy in Freetown does not have a consular section. All questions regarding consular services, visas and passports for Sierra Leoneans and German residents should be directed to the German Embassy in Accra, Ghana.

Consular services:

• Passport issuance and renewal.
• Registration of births, marriages and deaths.
• Assistance in emergency situations, such as loss of passport or problems with local authorities.

Visa issues:

• Visa and immigration counseling.
• Processing visa applications for German citizens.

The German Embassy in Freetown provides a wide range of services for German nationals residing or temporarily staying in Sierra Leone. The main functions of the embassy include:

Legal support:

• Advice on legal issues related to living in Sierra Leone.
• Assistance in legalization and notarization of documents.

Information support:

• Provision of information on current events and the situation in Sierra Leone.
• Advice on safety and medical issues, including vaccinations and precautions.

Educational and cultural programs:

• Support for German nationals participating in educational and cultural programs.
• Organizing events to strengthen cultural ties between Germany and Sierra Leone.
• The German Embassy in Freetown is committed to providing high quality service and support to all its citizens.

If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact us directly. We are always ready to help and provide the necessary information and support.

Sierra Leone is a country of amazing nature and rich culture. With its magnificent beaches, picturesque mountains and vast reserves, this country offers a variety of opportunities for active and relaxing vacations. Delicious cuisine and unique cultural activities await you. Whether you are looking for adventure or tranquility, Sierra Leone will provide you with all the conditions for the perfect vacation.