South Africa passport → Sierra Leone
Sierra Leone visa for citizens of South Africa
Citizens of South Africa can get a visa on arrival in Sierra Leone.
Verified · Last checked . Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.
Key facts
| Entry route | Visa on Arrival · Tourist (30 days) |
|---|---|
| How to apply | Get your visa at the border |
| Maximum stay | Up to 30 days |
| Visa validity | 30 days |
| Entries | Single entry |
| Processing time | On arrival |
| Government fee | $80 |
| Passport validity | At least 6 months |
| Biometrics | Not required |
| Appointment | Not required |
| Interview | Not required |
| Onward or return ticket | Required |
| Proof of funds | Sufficient funds for stay |
How to apply
- 1
Arrive at airport
Proceed to immigration desk at Freetown International Airport or other entry point
- 2
Complete arrival form
Fill out the visa on arrival application form provided at the desk
- 3
Submit documents
Hand over passport, photos, onward ticket, and other required documents
- 4
Pay visa fee
Pay USD 80 in cash (USD or local currency) at the immigration counter
- 5
Receive visa
Immigration officer issues visa sticker in passport
- 6
Proceed to baggage claim
After visa issuance, collect luggage and exit
Documents checklist
Identity
Valid passport
Must have at least 6 months validity from date of entry
Passport-size photographs
2 recent photos
Travel
Completed arrival form
Provided on arrival
Return or onward ticket
Proof of departure from Sierra Leone
Proof of accommodation
OptionalHotel booking or invitation letter
Financial
Proof of sufficient funds
Bank statement or cash
Visa fee payment
USD 80 paid on arrival
Supporting
Yellow fever vaccination certificate
Required for entry
Proof of funds
Minimum balance: Sufficient for stay
- Bank statement
- Cash
No specific minimum amount stated; must show ability to cover expenses
Good to know
- Visa on arrival is only available at Freetown International Airport and certain land borders; check before travel.
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for entry.
- Visa fee must be paid in cash (USD or local currency); no card payment.
Common refusal reasons
Insufficient passport validity
Ensure passport is valid for at least 6 months from date of entry
Missing yellow fever certificate
Carry valid yellow fever vaccination card
Inadequate funds
Carry sufficient cash or bank statement showing funds
No onward ticket
Have a confirmed return or onward ticket
FAQ
Do citizens of South Africa need a visa for Sierra Leone?
Citizens of South Africa can get a visa on arrival in Sierra Leone. Visa type: Visa on Arrival · Tourist (30 days).
How long can citizens of South Africa stay in Sierra Leone?
Up to 30 days.
How much does the Sierra Leone visa cost for citizens of South Africa?
Government fee: $80.
What documents do citizens of South Africa need for Sierra Leone?
Valid passport; Completed arrival form; Passport-size photographs; Return or onward ticket; Yellow fever vaccination certificate; Proof of sufficient funds; and 2 more.
How long must my passport be valid for Sierra Leone?
At least 6 months.
Plan your trip to Sierra Leone
Nowah is an AI travel agent that books flights, hotels and eSIMs in one conversation and keeps track of your visa paperwork along the way.
Sierra Leone visa for other passports
- India
- United States
- China
- Philippines
- Nigeria
- Pakistan
- Bangladesh
- Indonesia
- Brazil
- Mexico
- Canada
- Australia
- All passports for Sierra Leone