---
title: Sierra Leone visa for citizens of South Africa
description: "Citizens of South Africa can get a visa on arrival in Sierra Leone. Stay up to 30 days. Fee: $80. Processing: On arrival. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/sierra-leone/south-africa
lastModified: 2026-09-05
---

# Sierra Leone visa for citizens of South Africa

Citizens of South Africa can get a visa on arrival in Sierra Leone.

*Verified · last checked 2026-09-05. 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

- **Valid passport** (Identity): Must have at least 6 months validity from date of entry
- **Completed arrival form** (Travel): Provided on arrival
- **Passport-size photographs** (Identity): 2 recent photos
- **Return or onward ticket** (Travel): Proof of departure from Sierra Leone
- **Proof of accommodation** (Travel, optional): Hotel booking or invitation letter
- **Yellow fever vaccination certificate** (Supporting): Required for entry
- **Proof of sufficient funds** (Financial): Bank statement or cash
- **Visa fee payment** (Financial): USD 80 paid on arrival

## 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

## FAQs

### 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.

## More

- [Sierra Leone visa for every passport](/visa/sierra-leone)
- [Every destination for South Africa passport holders](/visa/passport/south-africa)