Americans need a visa for Sierra Leone, issued by the embassy in Washington across tourist, business, transit and diplomatic categories. As in neighbouring countries, there is a health condition checked on arrival: proof of yellow fever vaccination.
Quick facts
The vaccination has to be given a set period before travel, so it is the first thing to arrange, not the last. It is checked at the airport regardless of your visa.
Fees breakdown
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist visa | Published tariff | Money order to the embassy |
| Business visa | Higher tariff | With company documentation |
| Transit visa | Published tariff | Short validity |
| Yellow fever vaccination | Charged by your clinic | Required for entry |
| Work permit | Charged in Sierra Leone | Through the employer |
Nationals of the West African regional bloc enter under their own arrangements, which differ entirely from the rules applying to Americans.
How to apply
- Arrange the yellow fever vaccination first, allowing for the required interval.
- Choose the correct visa category for your trip.
- Gather the invitation or company documentation.
- Buy a money order payable to the embassy.
- Attend during consular hours, or apply by post with a prepaid envelope.
- Allow processing time before booking non-refundable travel.
Required documents
- Passport valid well beyond the intended stay.
- Completed application and photographs.
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate.
- Invitation or hotel booking and return ticket.
- Proof of lawful residence in the United States for third-country nationals.
- Money order for the fee.
Where to apply
At the embassy in Washington, during consular hours or by post.
No offices currently listed.
Additional notes
Beware of expediters
Several commercial services advertise as though they were the embassy. The embassy’s own consular section accepts walk-ins and takes applications directly.
Sierra Leoneans need no visa
But dual citizens must carry a valid Sierra Leonean passport or an emergency travel certificate. See the citizenship page.
Medical facilities
Care outside Freetown is limited. Insurance covering medical evacuation is worth confirming rather than assuming.
Verify close to travel
Fees and requirements change. The embassy’s own page is the authority.