Govt Announces Replacement of Residence & Work Permits With Biometric Cards For Non-Citizens
The Government of Sierra Leone has announced the replacement of all existing Residence and Work Permits held by non-citizens with newly introduced Biometric Residence and Work Permit Cards, as part of efforts to strengthen national security, improve data integrity, and modernise immigration management systems.
The announcement was made in a joint press release issued by the Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security and the Sierra Leone Immigration Department, informing all non-citizens currently residing and working in the country that the replacement exercise will be conducted at no cost.
According to the release, holders of valid Residence and Work Permits are required to submit their current permits for replacement within forty-five (45) working days, with the deadline set for on or before March 1st, 2026.
Applicants must also present proof of payment as part of the submission process.
The authorities explained that the initiative forms part of broader government measures aimed at improving the security, accuracy, and harmonisation of data relating to resident and work permits across state institutions. The biometric system is expected to enhance record management, reduce fraud, and ensure more effective monitoring of foreign nationals legally residing and working in Sierra Leone.
Applicants can complete the submission process through in-person or online channels. In-person submissions can be made at the Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security’s Work Permit Office at New England Ville, Freetown, or at the Sierra Leone Immigration Department’s Residence Permit Office located at 14 Gloucester Street, 4th Floor, Freetown.
Alternatively, applicants may submit their documentation online through the official government portal at unifiedpermit.gov.sl/eligibilities, where they are required to upload copies of their current permits and proof of payment.
The government has urged all affected individuals and employers to comply with the directive within the stipulated timeframe, warning that failure to do so may affect the legal status of residence and employment in the country.
For further information, applicants have been advised to contact the official call centre via +232 30 300003.
The biometric permit rollout underscores Sierra Leone’s commitment to modern governance, improved immigration control, and enhanced public service delivery through digital transformation.
