Freetown, Sierra Leone – May 8, 2026 The Sierra Leone Immigration Department (SLID) has issued an official clarification on immigration procedures for non-national passengers, withdrawing a previous directive issued just one day earlier and reaffirming existing requirements for residence and work permits.
In a letter addressed to all airlines operating at Freetown International Airport—including ASKY Airlines, Ethiopian Airlines, Royal Air Maroc, Turkish Airlines, Brussels Airlines, Air Peace, Air Sierra Leone, Kenya Airways, and others, the department emphasized that there are no changes to current immigration entry procedures for incoming passengers.
Key Points for Incoming Passengers:
– Passengers requiring a visa must still obtain the appropriate visa in accordance with existing regulations.
– Visa-free entry and visa-on-arrival arrangements remain unchanged.
– Non-national passengers claiming residence in Sierra Leone must present a valid Biometric Residence Permit. If the permit is unavailable, a valid visa is required.
For outgoing passengers, the department urged airlines to assist in enforcement by verifying, prior to check-in and boarding, that non-national residents hold a valid Biometric Residence Permit. This measure aims to minimize delays, ensure compliance, and support smoother airport operations.
The letter, dated today and signed by Dr. Moses Tima-Balo Esq., explicitly withdraws a communication dated May 7, 2026, issued by the Head of Immigration at Freetown International Airport. It states that the new communication supersedes the earlier letter.
The directive was copied to several senior government officials, including the Hon. Minister and Hon. Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority, and the General Manager of Freetown International Airport.
This clarification comes amid ongoing efforts to strengthen immigration controls while maintaining smooth international travel through Lungi International Airport, Sierra Leone’s main gateway.
