Sierra Leone entry requirements for Madagascar passport holders
Updated weekly · Last reviewed August 5, 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
Madagascar passport holders must obtain an eVisa before traveling to Sierra Leone. Apply online in advance; this requirement is in effect for 2026.
Apply for Sierra Leone eVisaOfficial portal: Sierra Leone eVisa Portal
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Visa on ArrivalYou will get your visa when you land, so no need to apply in advance. Available for Madagascar passport holders | You can obtain a visa on arrival at Sierra Leone entry points. No prior application is required, but you must have a passport valid for at least 6 months and at least 1 blank page. The visa is not extendable. | Required |
| Passport validityCheck your passport expiry date – it must not expire within 6 months of your arrival. Minimum 6 months | Your Madagascar passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended date of entry into Sierra Leone. | Required |
| Blank passport pagesMake sure there is a clean page for the immigration officer to stamp. At least 1 blank page | Your passport must have at least 1 blank page for the visa stamp and entry/exit stamps. | Required |
| Return or onward ticketHaving a ticket out of Sierra Leone can speed up entry and avoid questions. May be requested | Although not explicitly required, immigration officials may ask for proof of onward travel. It is strongly recommended to have a return or onward ticket ready. | Recommended |
| Proof of fundsCarry cash or a bank card to demonstrate you can support yourself during your visit. May be requested | There is no official minimum amount specified, but you should be able to show you have sufficient funds for your stay if asked. | Recommended |
| Arrival declarationYou do not need to fill out any online arrival form before you travel. Not required | No arrival declaration form is required for entry into Sierra Leone. | Not required |
| E-Visa applicationYou can skip the online application and get your visa on arrival, but applying online is also an option. Not required | Although an e-visa system exists, it is not mandatory for Madagascar passport holders because visa on arrival is available. You may choose to apply online in advance if you prefer. | Optional |
eVisa required — no visa on arrival
Madagascar passport holders cannot get a visa on arrival in Sierra Leone. You must apply for and receive an eVisa before you travel. Without it, you will be denied boarding.
Yellow fever vaccine required
Sierra Leone requires proof of yellow fever vaccination for all travellers over 9 months old. Carry your yellow card with your passport. No card = possible denial of entry or quarantine.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for eVisa online
Go to the official Sierra Leone eVisa website (evisa.gov.sl). Fill in your personal details, passport info, and travel dates. Upload a digital passport photo and a scan of your passport bio page. Pay the fee online with a credit or debit card. Processing usually takes 2–3 business days. You'll receive the eVisa by email as a PDF.
2
Print or save eVisa
Print at least one copy of the eVisa approval email. Also save a digital copy on your phone. You'll need to show it at check-in and on arrival.
3
Arrive at Lungi International Airport (Freetown)
After landing, proceed to immigration. Have your passport, printed eVisa, return ticket, and accommodation confirmation ready. The officer will stamp your passport. No additional forms needed.
4
Collect luggage and exit
After immigration, collect your bags from the carousel. There are no customs checks for personal items. You're free to exit the arrivals hall.
Download Sierra Leone Entry Checklist
PDF · Madagascar Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated August 5, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Business visa (single entry)
Max stay30 days
Validity3 months from issue
Cost$80
Requires invitation letter from Sierra Leone company.
Business visa (multiple entry)
Max stay30 days per visit
Validity6 months
Cost$150
Requires invitation letter and proof of business activities.
Residence permit
Max stay1 year
Validity1 year
Cost$200
For work or long-term stay; requires employer sponsorship and police clearance.
work visa
Work Permit / Residence Visa
1 year, renewable
~$500 USD (processing fee)
For those with a job offer in Sierra Leone. Requires employer sponsorship and approval from the Ministry of Labour.
student visa
Student Visa
Duration of studies, renewable annually
~$100 USD (processing fee)
For enrollment in accredited institutions. Requires admission letter and proof of funds.
investor visa
Investor Visa
1 year, renewable
~$1,000 USD (processing fee)
For investors with a minimum investment of $50,000 in a Sierra Leone business. Requires business registration and proof of investment.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| eVisa (single entry, tourist)Mandatory for all Madagascar passport holders; apply online before travel. | $50 |
| eVisa (multiple entry)Optional; allows multiple entries during validity. | $100 |
| Visa extension (per month)Apply at Immigration Department in Freetown; max 3 months. | $50 |
| Exit feeNo separate payment at airport. | Included in airfare |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Incomplete application20%
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
Madagascar passport holders transiting through Sierra Leone (Lungi International Airport) do not require a visa if staying airside and departing within 24 hours.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Exceptions & conditions
- If leaving the airport transit area or staying overnight, a visa is required.
- Citizens of Madagascar are not exempt from visa requirements for any stay exceeding 24 hours.
Transit hubsLungi International Airport (FNA)
Health & vaccines for Sierra Leone
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired if arriving from a country with yellow fever risk; Madagascar is endemic, so certificate is mandatory.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidEssentialYellow FeverEssentialMalaria prophylaxisEssentialHepatitis BRecommendedRabiesConsider
Health risks
MalariaHigh risk
Widespread throughout the country; prophylaxis recommended.
Dengue FeverModerate risk
Occasional outbreaks, especially in urban areas.
CholeraLow risk
Risk increases during rainy season; ensure safe water and food.
Malaria risk: high
Malaria is present year-round nationwide. Use mosquito repellent, bed nets, and consider prophylaxis like atovaquone-proguanil or doxycycline.
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 Headquarters
13 Walpole Street, Freetown
Mon–Fri 08:00–16:00
Main office for visa extensions and permits.
Bo
Bo Immigration Office
Bo Town, near the main market
Mon–Fri 08:00–16:00
Regional office for southern Sierra Leone.
Practical information for MG 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
Typically 2–3 business days. Apply at least 1 week before your flight to be safe. You'll receive the eVisa by email as a PDF.
The official eVisa fee is around $80 USD for a single-entry tourist visa. Check the official eVisa website for the current amount, as fees can change.
No, the eVisa is not extendable. You must leave before the visa expires. If you need a longer stay, apply for a different visa type before travel.
Yes, Sierra Leone requires proof of yellow fever vaccination for all travellers over 9 months old. Carry your yellow card (International Certificate of Vaccination) with you.
Your eVisa application will likely be rejected. Renew your passport first, then apply. The 6 months are counted from your date of entry into Sierra Leone.
No, Sierra Leone does not offer visa on arrival for Madagascar passport holders. You must have an approved eVisa before you travel.
Your passport, printed eVisa, return ticket, and first-night accommodation confirmation. Keep them together in a folder for quick access.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on August 5, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.