Doing Business in Sierra Leone

1.    Do I need a visa to come to Sierra Leone?

Ans: Yes! Entry into the borders of Sierra Leone requires a valid Entry Visa/ Certificate of Entry. This can be obtained from countries where Sierra Leone has an Embassy or Consulates.  Normally the Sierra Leone Embassy or Consulate has a website that gives instructions on obtaining a visa. 

 2.    If I want to do business in Sierra Leone, do I need certain information from the Ministry of Trade and Industry?

Ans. Yes! You may want information on the investment climate in Sierra Leone and relevant trade regulations.  You can research that information on the ministry’s website as well as in the Bussiness/Commercial sections of the U.S. Embassy website.

 3.    Do I need to register my business before I start full operations?

Yes! It is a regulatory requirement. 
Please refer to: SLIEPA  ,  OARG  

4.     How long does it take to register a business in Sierra Leone?

Ans. Three working days for sole proprietorship (small businesses) and 9-12 days for medium and large businesses such as companies, partnership etc.

5.    Where do I register my business in Sierra Leone?

Ans. Administrator and Registrar General’s Office at Walpole Street (around the Cotton Tree area) Freetown.

6.    Do I need to visit different offices to complete my business registration process?

Ans. No, all the registration processes are housed in one office.

7.    Is Sierra Leone relatively safe for doing business?

Ans.  Yes, Sierra Leone is very safe for doing business. You can consult the Department of State Travel Warning website for the most recent security status:
Current Travel Warnings

8.    I am concerning about corruption and scams, is there any system in place to protect investors from corrupt practices inflicted by public officers?

Ans.  Corruption remains a challenge in Sierra Leone, but the government is making strong efforts to overcome this problem.  Laws are in place and procedures exist to address this problem.  Scams and swindles are most often seen in the diamond and gold trade.  If you choose to do business in these sectors, ensure to work closesly with the Government Gold and Diamond Office. 

9.   Do I need an attorney before I register my business?

Ans. You do not necessarily need an attorney before you can register your business in Sierra Leone.