Freetown, 1st January 2026– The Government of Sierra Leone has announced the launch of a new Unified Permits Platform, a fully digital system for processing resident and work permits. Beginning Today 1st January, 2026, all applications and renewals will be handled exclusively online, marking a major step in modernizing immigration and labour management.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security in collaboration with the Sierra Leone Immigration Department, is designed to streamline procedures, reduce delays, and strengthen transparency. The platform allows applicants to submit, track, and receive approvals remotely, offering what officials describe as a secure and integrated end-to-end process.
Authorities are urging all non-nationals living and working in Sierra Leone to regularize their status promptly, while employers are being called upon to cooperate fully to avoid penalties, travel interruptions, or violations of the law.
The announcement also ends a temporary moratorium on permit processing that ran from November 13 to 31st December, 2025. Those affected are now required to reapply through the digital system.
Officials confirmed that nationwide compliance inspections will begin in early 2026, targeting workplaces and institutions. Non-nationals without valid permits and employers found in breach of immigration laws will face sanctions under existing legislation.
The government says the reform will boost investor confidence and support Sierra Leone’s broader push for efficiency and accountability in public service delivery.
