Sierra Leone entry requirements for Netherlands passport holders
Checked daily · Updated May 17, 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
Dutch passport holders can get a visa on arrival in Sierra Leone. As of 2026, you simply show up at Freetown International Airport (FNA) with your documents and pay the fee at the immigration counter before clearing passport control.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Valid passport Must be valid for the duration of your stay | Your passport needs to be valid for the entire time you plan to stay in Sierra Leone. No minimum validity period beyond your departure date is required by law, but airlines sometimes enforce 6 months — check with your carrier before flying. | Required |
| Visa on arrival Obtain at Freetown International Airport (FNA) | You get a visa on arrival at Freetown International Airport. Pay the fee in cash — USD is preferred, and have the exact amount ready. The process takes 15–30 minutes depending on the queue.Sierra Leone Immigration | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Proof of departure from Sierra Leone | Immigration officers routinely ask for a return or onward ticket before granting entry. Have a printed or digital copy of your flight booking ready — they check this at the visa-on-arrival counter. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel booking or host invitation | Carry a printed hotel reservation or a letter of invitation from your host. Officers occasionally ask for it, especially if you arrive without a clear itinerary. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Cash or bank statement | Have at least $500 USD in cash or a recent bank statement showing sufficient funds. Immigration may ask to see it if you look underprepared. | Recommended |
Cash only for visa on arrival
The visa fee must be paid in cash (USD or EUR) at the immigration counter. There is no ATM before passport control, and cards are not accepted. Bring crisp, undamaged bills in small denominations.
Yellow fever vaccination required
All travellers must show proof of yellow fever vaccination. Get the shot at least 10 days before travel and carry your International Certificate of Vaccination (yellow card) with your passport.
What happens at the border
1
Arrive at Freetown International Airport (FNA)
After deplaning, follow signs to 'Immigration' or 'Visa on Arrival'. There is a dedicated counter before the main passport control booths.
2
Present documents and pay fee
Hand over your passport, completed arrival card (usually given on the plane), and your return ticket. Pay the visa fee in cash (USD or EUR). The officer will issue a visa sticker valid for up to 30 days.
3
Proceed to passport control
With the visa sticker in your passport, join the main passport control queue. The officer will stamp you in. Keep your boarding pass handy in case they ask.
4
Collect luggage and exit
After passport control, head to baggage claim, then customs. The whole process usually takes 30–60 minutes depending on flight arrivals.
Download Sierra Leone Entry Checklist
PDF · Netherlands Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated May 17, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Tourist Visa (single entry, 30 days)
Max stay30 days, non-extendable
Validity3 months from issue
Cost$80 USD (approx. €73)
Obtainable on arrival or in advance at embassy. Same as VoA.
Tourist Visa (multiple entry, 30 days per entry)
Max stay30 days per entry, multiple entries within validity
Validity6 months from issue
Cost$150 USD (approx. €137)
Apply at Sierra Leone embassy. Useful for frequent travellers.
Business Visa (single entry, 30 days)
Max stay30 days, extendable
Validity3 months from issue
Cost$100 USD (approx. €91)
Requires invitation letter from Sierra Leone company.
work visa
Work Permit / Residence Visa
1 year, renewable
~$200–$500 USD (approx. €182–€456) depending on category
For those with a job offer in Sierra Leone. Requires employer sponsorship and approval from the Ministry of Labour. Allows long-term stay and multiple entries.
student visa
Student Visa
Duration of studies, typically 1–4 years
~$100 USD (approx. €91) plus school fees
For enrolment in a recognized educational institution in Sierra Leone. Requires acceptance letter and proof of funds.
investor visa
Investor / Business Visa
1 year, renewable
~$500–$1,000 USD (approx. €456–€912)
For individuals investing a minimum of $50,000 USD in a Sierra Leone business. Requires business plan and proof of investment.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Visa on Arrival (single entry, 30 days)Payable in USD or local currency at the airport. Exact amount may vary slightly. | $80 USD (approx. €73) |
| Overstay fine (per day)No official cap reported; avoid overstaying. | $20 USD per day (approx. €18) |
| Stay extension (if allowed)Extension is not guaranteed; apply at immigration office before visa expires. | Varies, typically $50–$100 USD |
Common reasons for entry denial
No return ticket30%
Insufficient funds25%
Incomplete yellow fever20%
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
Netherlands passport holders transiting through Sierra Leone do not need a transit visa if staying airside and not passing through immigration. However, you must have a confirmed onward ticket and valid visa for the next destination.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Exceptions & conditions
- If you need to leave the airport or collect luggage, you must obtain a visa on arrival or a regular visa.
Transit hubsLungi International Airport (FNA), Freetown
Health & vaccines for Sierra Leone
Required for entry
Yellow FeverSierra Leone requires a valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate for all travellers arriving from endemic countries or if you have been in an endemic area.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidEssentialMalaria prophylaxisEssentialHepatitis BRecommendedRabiesConsiderMeningitisConsider
Health risks
MalariaHigh risk
Malaria is endemic throughout Sierra Leone, especially in rural areas. Use mosquito repellent and take prophylaxis.
Dengue FeverModerate risk
Dengue outbreaks occur, particularly during rainy seasons. Protect against mosquito bites.
CholeraModerate risk
Cholera is present, especially during floods. Drink only bottled or boiled water.
Malaria risk: high
Malaria is present year-round nationwide. Prophylaxis (e.g., atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline) is strongly recommended. Use insecticide-treated bed nets and repellent.
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. Bring passport, photos, and fee.
Bo
Bo Regional Immigration Office
Bo City, near the main market
Mon–Fri 08:00–15:00
Handles extensions for visitors in the southern region.
Practical information for NL 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 = 24,573.84 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 around $80–$100 USD (or equivalent in euros). Pay in cash at the immigration counter — no credit cards accepted. Bring crisp, undamaged bills.
Yes, you can apply for an extension at the Immigration Department in Freetown. Extensions are not guaranteed and cost extra. It's best to plan your stay within the initial 30 days.
Yes, proof of yellow fever vaccination is required for all travellers over 9 months old. Carry your yellow card — you may be asked at immigration.
You will likely be denied the visa on arrival. The 6-month validity rule is strictly enforced. Renew your passport before travelling.
Yes, you can apply for an e-visa through the Sierra Leone Immigration website before travel. This can save time at the airport but is not required. The cost is similar to the on-arrival fee.
Refusals are rare for Dutch passport holders with proper documents. Common reasons: passport validity under 6 months, no return ticket, or previous immigration violations. As long as you meet the requirements, you'll be fine.
Bring US dollars or euros in cash for the visa fee. For other expenses, USD is widely accepted in Freetown, but you'll get better rates using local currency (Sierra Leonean leone). ATMs are scarce outside the capital.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on May 17, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.