Sierra Leone customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026

Sierra Leone strictly prohibits narcotics, counterfeit goods, and certain wildlife products. For 2026, the duty-free allowance for personal goods is up to USD 800, with alcohol and tobacco limits as below. Cash amounts equivalent to USD 10,000 or more must be declared.

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol
1.0 L
1 liter of spirits (over 22% ABV) OR 2 liters of wine or beer. Traveller must be 18+.
Tobacco
200 cigarettes
or 50 cigars / 250 g
Cash to declare
$10,000
Any amount equivalent to USD 10,000 or more (in any currency) must be declared on the customs arrival form. Failure to declare can result in seizure and penalties.
Goods duty-free
$800
Personal effects and gifts up to a total value of USD 800 are duty-free. Items exceeding this value are subject to duty at the discretion of customs.

Prohibited — banned from import

  • Narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances (including cannabis)
  • Counterfeit currency and goods
  • Pornographic materials
  • Firearms and ammunition without a valid permit
  • Endangered species and products (e.g., ivory, rhino horn) under CITES
  • Radioactive materials and hazardous waste

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

  • Medicines for personal use (must have a prescription or doctor's note; quantity limited to 3 months' supply)
  • Plants, seeds, and agricultural products (require phytosanitary certificate)
  • Pets (dogs, cats) require a valid rabies vaccination certificate and import permit from the Ministry of Agriculture
  • Drones and satellite phones (require prior approval from the Sierra Leone Telecommunications Company - Sierratel)
  • Cultural artifacts and antiques (require an export permit from the National Museum)

Rules worth knowing

Currency Declaration

All travellers entering or leaving Sierra Leone must declare any amount of cash or negotiable instruments exceeding USD 10,000 (or equivalent in SLL or other currencies) on the customs form. Non-declaration can lead to confiscation and fines.

Duty-Free Shop Purchases

Duty-free allowances apply only to goods purchased abroad or in duty-free shops. Items bought within Sierra Leone are not eligible for duty-free entry.

Temporary Import of Vehicles

Vehicles brought in temporarily (e.g., for tourism) require a Carnet de Passages en Douane or a bank guarantee. Without it, customs may demand a deposit equal to the duty.

Prohibited Food Imports

Fresh meat, poultry, and dairy products from countries with outbreaks of foot-and-mouth disease or avian flu are strictly prohibited. Processed and canned foods are generally allowed.

Frequently asked questions

You may bring 1 liter of spirits (over 22% ABV) OR 2 liters of wine or beer. You must be at least 18 years old.
You can bring 200 cigarettes, or 50 cigars, or 250g of tobacco, or a combination not exceeding the equivalent of 250g.
Yes, if you are carrying USD 10,000 or more (or equivalent in any currency), you must declare it on the customs arrival form. Failure to do so can result in seizure and a fine.
Yes, for personal use. Carry a doctor's prescription or a letter explaining the condition and dosage. Limit to a 3-month supply. Controlled substances require prior approval from the Pharmacy Board of Sierra Leone.
Drones require prior approval from the Sierra Leone Telecommunications Company (Sierratel). Without a permit, they will be confiscated at customs.
Personal effects and gifts up to a total value of USD 800 are duty-free. Items above that value are subject to customs duty.

Official source

National Revenue Authority (NRA) - Customs Division

For guidance only. Customs allowances and prohibited-item lists change without notice — always confirm with National Revenue Authority (NRA) - Customs Division before travelling.