The UK Foreign Office has issued a new warning for UK tourists regarding health travel declarations for Sierra Leone. The guidance was amended on Friday, June 19, with updated information about completing a health travel declaration.
Health Declaration Requirements
All travellers entering or leaving Sierra Leone must complete a health declaration before travel using the Sierra Leone Health Travel Portal. The form must be completed online within 72 hours before travel, and travel details must be accurate, including seat number where possible. Travellers must keep their confirmation QR code or reference number and present it if requested. Health screening may be required on arrival. Non-compliance may result in delays or refusal of entry or departure.
Vaccination Recommendations
Several vaccines are recommended or required for Sierra Leone. The National Travel Health Network and Centre and WHO recommend vaccinations for COVID-19, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, cholera, yellow fever, rabies, polio, and tetanus. Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required to enter the country. Without proof, travellers may be vaccinated on site, quarantined, or returned to their previous location.
Visa and Passport Requirements
A visa is required for all travel to Sierra Leone. Passports must have at least six months validity.
Safety Advice
Passport Health Global warns that Sierra Leone is one of the poorest countries in the world, with an associated increase in crime rates. Freetown is considered the safest destination, but night-time wandering is not recommended. Travel from Freetown should be done during daylight hours due to the risk of bandits. Border areas, particularly the border with Liberia, are considered unstable, and travellers should pay attention to their surroundings and avoid travelling alone.
Emergency Assistance
UK tourists in Sierra Leone who experience an emergency, such as an attack, arrest, or death, should contact the nearest consular services. Additional questions on entry requirements, safety concerns, or assistance should be directed to the embassy before arrival.
