Sierra Leone entry requirements for Cyprus passport holders
Updated weekly · Last reviewed July 3, 2026·View sources
Visa on arrival
Max stay
No fixed limit
Passport validity
6 months
Beyond entry date
Return ticket
Required
Or onward travel proof
Proof of funds
Recommended
May be checked
Cyprus passport holders can get a visa on arrival in Sierra Leone. You'll handle the paperwork at Freetown International Airport (FNA) or other entry points. This policy is current as of 2026.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Visa on arrivalYou do not need to apply in advance; the visa is issued when you arrive. Obtain at Freetown International Airport or land borders | Citizens of Cyprus can obtain a single-entry visa on arrival in Sierra Leone. The visa is valid for up to 30 days. Fee is approximately USD 80 (payable in cash, USD or EUR accepted). Have a passport photo ready. | Required |
| Passport validityIf your passport expires sooner, you may be denied boarding or entry. Minimum 6 months remaining | Your Cyprus passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended date of entry into Sierra Leone. | Required |
| Blank passport pagesThe immigration officer needs a clean page to affix the visa. At least 1 blank page | Your passport must contain at least 1 blank visa page (not endorsement page) for the visa-on-arrival sticker. | Required |
| Return or onward ticketAirlines and immigration check this to ensure you will leave the country. Proof of departure | You must present a confirmed return or onward flight ticket showing departure from Sierra Leone within the visa validity period. | Required |
| Proof of sufficient fundsHaving some cash or a card helps avoid any questioning at the border. Not formally required but recommended | No official minimum amount is specified, but immigration may ask for evidence of funds to cover your stay. Carry cash (USD/EUR) or a debit/credit card. | Recommended |
| Yellow fever vaccination certificateWithout this certificate, you may be refused entry or quarantined. Required for entry | All travellers aged 9 months and older must present a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate upon arrival. The vaccine must be given at least 10 days before travel. | Required |
| Travel insuranceMedical care in Sierra Leone is basic; insurance protects you from high costs. Strongly recommended | While not mandatory, comprehensive travel insurance covering medical evacuation and COVID-19 treatment is highly recommended due to limited healthcare facilities. | Recommended |
Cash only for visa fee
The visa on arrival fee must be paid in cash (USD or local currency). There are no ATMs before immigration, so bring enough USD to cover the fee and any unexpected costs.
Yellow fever certificate required
You must show a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate at immigration. Without it, you may be denied entry or forced to get vaccinated on the spot at your own expense.
What happens at the border
1
Arrive at Freetown International Airport (FNA)
After landing, follow signs to 'Visa on Arrival' or 'Immigration'. There's usually a dedicated counter. Have your passport, return ticket, and accommodation details ready.
2
Fill out the visa application form
You'll be given a short form to complete. Basic personal info, flight details, and where you're staying. A pen is handy.
3
Pay the visa fee
Fees are paid in cash (USD or local currency). As of 2026, expect around $80–$100 for a single-entry visa. Keep the receipt.
4
Receive your visa and proceed to passport control
The officer will stamp your passport with the visa. Then join the main passport control queue. Show your boarding pass and visa stamp. That's it.
Download Sierra Leone Entry Checklist
PDF · Cyprus Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated July 3, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Business visa
Max stay90 days
Validity3 months from issue
Cost$150
Requires invitation letter from Sierra Leone company.
Multiple entry visa
Max stay30 days per entry
Validity6 months
Cost$200
For frequent travelers; apply at embassy.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Visa on arrival (single entry, 30 days)Payable in USD or SLL at entry point. | $80 |
| Visa extension (up to 3 months)Apply at Immigration Department in Freetown. | $100 |
Common reasons for entry denial
Incomplete or incorrect documentation30%
Insufficient funds for stay25%
Criminal record or security concerns20%
Approval probability calculator
Answer 6 quick questions — we'll estimate how likely you are to be approved for entry based on typical immigration patterns.
Transiting through Sierra Leone
No transit visa needed
Transit passengers staying airside and not clearing immigration do not need a visa.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Exceptions & conditions
- Cyprus passport holders can transit without visa for up to 24 hours.
Transit hubsFreetown International Airport (FNA)
Health & vaccines for Sierra Leone
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired for all travelers arriving from endemic countries; recommended for all.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis ARecommendedTyphoidRecommendedPolioEssentialMeningitisConsiderRabiesConsider
Health risks
CholeraModerate risk
Occasional outbreaks; practice food and water hygiene.
Dengue FeverModerate risk
Mosquito-borne; use repellent.
Lassa FeverLow risk
Rare but present in rural areas.
Malaria risk: high
Malaria is present year-round; prophylaxis recommended.
Based on CDC and WHO guidance. Consult a travel medicine clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalised advice.
Immigration offices for extensions
Freetown
Sierra Leone Immigration Department
Walpole Street, Freetown
Mon-Fri 9:00-16:00
Practical information for CY travellers
Country basics
CapitalFreetown
LanguageEnglish
Driving sideRight-hand traffic
US driving licenceUS visitors can drive with a valid US license for up to 3 months; an International Driving Permit is recommended.
Money
CurrencySierra Leonean leone (SLL)
Exchange rate
1 USD = 24,355.05 SLL
Time zone
Local timeUTC+0
vs New York+5h
vs Los Angeles+8h
Electricity
Voltage230V / 50Hz
Plug types
D,GTypes D (3-pin) and G (3-pin rectangular) are used.
⚠ US adapter needed
Water & health
Tap water
Not safe — use bottled
Tap water is not safe to drink; use bottled or boiled water.
Emergency numbers
Frequently asked questions
The fee is typically $80–$100 USD for a single-entry visa. Pay in cash (USD or Sierra Leonean leones). Credit cards are not accepted at the visa counter.
No, the visa on arrival is not extendable. If you need to stay longer, you must apply for a different visa type before travel or leave and re-enter.
The standard stay is up to 30 days. The exact duration is determined by the immigration officer at the airport.
Visa on arrival is also available at major land border crossings, but the process may be slower. Carry cash and have your documents ready. The same fee applies.
Yes, a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for entry. You may be asked to show it at immigration. Get the shot at least 10 days before travel.
Sierra Leone does offer an e-visa, but it's not required for Cypriot citizens since you can get the visa on arrival. If you prefer to have it in advance, check the official e-visa portal.
You may be denied boarding by the airline or refused entry at immigration. Always have a confirmed onward or return ticket.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on July 3, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.