Freetown, Sierra Leone — December 17, 2025
The Government of Sierra Leone issued a formal response on Wednesday to a recent U.S. presidential proclamation that upgraded the country from partial to full entry restrictions for its nationals, citing concerns over visa overstay rates and repatriation compliance.
In a press release from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the government acknowledged the U.S. decision announced on December 16, 2025, which moved Sierra Leone, along with Laos, into a category of full suspension of entry as immigrants and nonimmigrants under broader U.S. national security measures.
“Sierra Leone remains fully committed to strengthening international cooperation and addressing immigration concerns raised by the US Government,” the statement read.
It further noted: “Cognizant that these restrictions are subject to review, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation is actively engaged in ongoing, constructive dialogue with U.S. authorities and has taken progressive steps to address the issues raised.”
The release emphasized Sierra Leone’s adherence to international obligations, stating that the country “continues to uphold its obligations under international law and existing frameworks to enhance document security, repatriation processes, and information-sharing mechanisms in line with global best practices to seek sustainable relief from the restriction.”
The government also acknowledged public concern, assuring citizens that “this issue remains a priority” and appealing “for patience as consultations with the U.S. Government continue.”
For further information, the ministry provided a contact number: +23276632659.
The U.S. proclamation, signed by President Donald J. Trump, expanded restrictions to additional countries based on factors including high visa overstay rates, citing Sierra Leone’s B-1/B-2 rate at 16.48% and student/exchange visitor rate at 35.83%, and broader vetting deficiencies.
The measures take effect January 1, 2026, with exceptions for certain visa holders and cases serving U.S. interests.
Sierra Leone’s response highlights a diplomatic approach, focusing on ongoing talks to potentially mitigate or reverse the upgraded restrictions.
