The Government of Sierra Leone, through the Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security and the Sierra Leone Immigration Department, has announced a new nationwide permit replacement process targeting all non-citizens currently holding valid residence and work permits.
In a Press Release issued in Freetown on Thursday, 16th January 2026, authorities informed all foreign nationals living and working in Sierra Leone that they are now required to submit their existing valid Residence and Work Permit documents for replacement with newly introduced Biometric Residence and Work Permit Cards.
According to the statement, the replacement exercise is expected to be completed within forty-five (45) days and will be carried out at no cost to the applicants.
“This replacement initiative forms part of ongoing measures to improve the security, integrity and effective harmonization of data relating to Resident and Work permits,” the release stated.
Government officials explained that the introduction of biometric permits is part of a broader modernization drive aimed at strengthening immigration management and labour regulation. The Biometric Residence and Work Permit Cards are expected to improve efficiency in tracking legal residency and employment status, while also supporting national efforts to enhance data accuracy and reduce vulnerabilities associated with paper-based systems.
The Press Release further clarified that all holders of valid permits must submit their current Residence and Work Permits along with proof of payments within the stated period. The deadline for compliance has been set for on or before 1st March 2026.
Authorities stressed that foreign nationals should treat the notice as urgent and comply within the timeframe to avoid challenges in validating their legal status in the country.
To ensure easy access for applicants, the Ministry and Immigration Department outlined both physical and online options for submissions.
For those submitting in person, applicants are expected to visit either:
- The Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security – Work Permit Office located at New England Ville, Freetown, or
- The Sierra Leone Immigration Department – Residence Permit Office, located at 14 Gloucester Street, 4th Floor, Freetown.
Applicants can also choose to submit their documentation online through the official government portal:
https://unifiedpermit.gov.sl/eligibilities
The release noted that applicants submitting online must ensure they upload their current permits and proof of payment as part of the submission process.
In addition, the public has been encouraged to call the official help line for clarification and assistance. The listed call centre contact is +232 30 300003.
The biometric permit replacement process is expected to enhance national immigration compliance and data coordination between relevant Government institutions. Observers say it may also support stronger labour monitoring and improved regulation of foreign employment in Sierra Leone.
The Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security and the Sierra Leone Immigration Department called on all affected non-citizens to cooperate fully, emphasizing that the move is intended to strengthen national systems while maintaining a transparent and accessible process for foreign residents and workers.
The Government has not indicated any extension beyond the stated deadline, urging applicants to complete the replacement process early to avoid last-minute congestion and delays.
