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Sierra Leone Visa for Canada Citizens 2026

Visa on Arrival

Canadian citizens can obtain a visa on arrival in Sierra Leone for tourism or business, though pre-arrival registration through Sierra Leone's e-visa portal is strongly recommended to avoid delays at the airport.

Guide last updated September 30, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your date of entry
  • Pre-arrival online registration recommended, though the visa can also be processed on arrival
  • Passport-style digital photo
  • Proof of yellow fever vaccination, mandatory for entry
  • Return or onward ticket
  • Proof of accommodation
  • Proof of sufficient funds
  • No separate biometrics appointment; photograph and fingerprints may be captured at the airport immigration counter

Visa types

  • Tourist visa on arrival - single entry, typically valid up to 30-90 days depending on approval
  • Business visa - for business travel, requires an invitation letter from a Sierra Leonean company
  • Multiple-entry visa - available for frequent travelers, arranged through the pre-arrival online portal
  • Work permit - required for employment, sponsored by a local employer

Visa on arrival

  • Complete the online pre-arrival registration before departure to speed up processing at Freetown's Lungi International Airport
  • If arriving without pre-approval, complete the visa-on-arrival application form and submit passport, photo, and yellow fever certificate at the airport counter
  • Pay the visa fee in USD cash or by card if the facility is available
  • Processing at the airport typically takes 20-45 minutes depending on volume
  • Keep the visa receipt/stamp, as it may be checked during your stay or at departure

Fees & processing time

  • Visa on arrival fee: approximately USD 80-160 depending on visa duration and entry type
  • Pre-arrival online registration fee, if applicable: included in the total visa cost, no separate charge
  • Total cost: approximately USD 80-160
  • Processing time: 20-45 minutes on arrival if pre-registered; longer without pre-registration
  • No formal express option; pre-registration online is the fastest path

Tips for Canada travelers

  • Complete the pre-arrival online registration at least a few days before travel, as this significantly reduces airport processing time
  • Carry your yellow fever vaccination certificate prominently, as entry can be refused without it
  • Have USD cash available in various denominations, as card payment facilities at Lungi Airport can be unreliable
  • Book accommodation and transportation from the airport in advance, as Lungi International Airport is located across the bay from Freetown and requires a ferry, water taxi, or helicopter transfer
  • Confirm current safety and health advisories from Global Affairs Canada before travel, given evolving conditions in the region

Official links & resources

Always confirm requirements with government or embassy sources before applying.

This guide is for information only. Visa policies change without notice. Travel Visa Stack is not an immigration authority. Always verify with official government or embassy sources before making travel plans.