Sierra Leone: Authorities tighten COVID-19 domestic restrictions nationwide as of June 18 /update 22

Sierra Leone tightens domestic measures aimed at curbing the spread of COVID-19 as of June 18. Entry restrictions remain unchanged.

Event

As of June 18, the government has tightened domestic restrictions aimed at curbing the spread of COVID-19 while entry restrictions remain unchanged.

Domestic Restrictions
Facemasks are mandatory in all public spaces and on transportation. Nightclubs and cinemas are banned for at least a month. Private gatherings including weddings, funerals, and receptions, should not exceed 50 people with social distancing in place and the use of facemasks compulsory while large gatherings are entirely banned. According to current directives, restaurants, bars, and hotels are open under strict health protocols. Public transport is operating at reduced capacity.

International Travel
Freetown's Lungi International Airport (FNA) is open to commercial flights; however, the nation's land and sea borders remain closed to passenger traffic. International air travelers must provide a negative result from a PCR COVID-19 test taken within seven days before departure for the country. Additional tests, including a PCR test and a Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT), are conducted on arrival. Anyone who tests positive will be isolated at a government-approved facility at their own expense.

Travelers arriving from countries deemed high-risk locations must present a negative PCR test result taken no more than 72 hours before departure and self-isolate eight days on arrival at a government-approved facility at their own expense; travelers will be tested on day seven before being allowed to exit quarantine. As of early June, Sierra Leone has designated Argentina, Brazil, India, and Turkey as high-risk locations. Fully vaccinated travelers arriving at least 14 days after their last injection will not be required to self-isolate but will be tested on arrival.

Travelers departing Sierra Leone must submit a negative result from a PCR test taken within 72 hours of their intended departure time. Travelers who arrived in the country fewer than five days before departing are exempt from the test.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements and requirements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions.