CitizenshipSierra Leone
A West African passport built on investment, heritage, or speed
Sierra Leone opened its investor citizenship route in January 2025, giving global applicants a structured way to acquire a West African nationality through a one-time contribution to the country's development. The programme stands out for offering three distinct pathways, each shaped around a different applicant profile, from solo professionals to those able to document African ancestry.
What makes the offer appealing is its combination of reasonable entry pricing and a short decision window. Most applications are resolved within roughly two to three months, and the process can be completed remotely, without any requirement to relocate or spend time in the country before approval.
At CBIProgram, we guide clients through the route that best fits their circumstances, assemble a compliant document file, and coordinate directly with the relevant authorities so that each stage moves without avoidable delay.
- Residence requirement: None
Program law
Non-Citizenship (Registration, Immigration and Expulsion) Act 1965, under which the investor citizenship programme was formally introduced in January 2025.
Key benefits
Three tailored routes
Choose between a solo entrepreneur track, a heritage-based naturalization, or a fast-track option, each priced and structured for a different applicant profile.
Swift decisions
Approvals are typically delivered within two to three months, among the quicker turnarounds in the investment-migration field.
No relocation needed
The entire application can be handled from abroad, with no obligation to visit or reside in the country beforehand.
Family inclusion
Most routes allow a spouse, children up to 18, and dependent parents of any age to be added to a single application.
Visa-free destinations
Visa-free, visa-on-arrival or eVisa access. Contact us for the full, up-to-date destination list. Compare
Fees & costs
Investment options
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Solo Entrepreneur donation — Single applicant only; no dependents and no DNA testing required | USD 95,000 |
| Heritage Naturalization donation — Requires DNA evidence of African ancestry; USD 10,000 per additional dependent | USD 120,000 |
| Fast-Track Naturalization donation — USD 10,000 per additional dependent | USD 140,000 |
Government fees
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Government fees and contribution — Final amount depends on the number of applicants and their ages; a detailed quote is provided on request | Varies |
Due diligence fees
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Due diligence — Background-check costs are bundled into the donation for every route | Included |
Process & timeline
We compile and certify the document file and lodge the application; the client settles the retainer at this point.
The authorities issue a request for funds and escrow details, fees are paid, and due diligence is carried out ahead of a decision.
On approval, citizenship and the passport are issued and the remaining professional fee balance falls due.
Files must be finalized within 90 days, shortened to 60 days for the Heritage Naturalization route.
Eligibility
- Main applicant must be at least 18 years old
- Clear a criminal background check and due diligence review
- Evidence financial capacity through bank statements and employer references
- Pay the applicable government fees and development contribution
- Heritage route applicants must supply DNA proof of African ancestry
Required documents
All applicants
- Certified copies of every passport held
- Certified birth certificate with MOFA attestation
- Recent passport-sized photographs
- Police clearance for applicants aged 16+ from each country lived in for six months or more over the past decade
- Proof of address (certified lease or original utility bill)
- Certified academic diplomas
- Medical certificate
- Resume or business background report
Main applicant
- Bank statements covering the previous 12 months
- Original bank reference letter from a globally recognized institution
- One employment letter
- Marriage or divorce records with MOFA attestation, where relevant
Married couples
- Certified marriage certificate with MOFA attestation
- Certified divorce documents with MOFA attestation, if previously married
Frequently asked questions
How long does the process take?
Most cases conclude in roughly two to three months, measured from filing to passport issuance.
Do I have to travel to Sierra Leone?
No. The application is handled remotely and there is no residency or visit requirement before approval.
Which route should I choose?
It depends on your profile: solo applicants without dependents often suit the entrepreneur track, while those who can document African ancestry may prefer the heritage route. We advise on the best fit after reviewing your case.
Can my family be included?
Yes, on most routes you can add a spouse, children up to 18, and dependent parents. The solo entrepreneur track is for a single applicant only.
Is the contribution refundable?
No. The development contribution is a one-time, non-refundable payment to the state.
Are due diligence costs extra?
No. Background-check fees are included within the donation amount for each pathway.
Information last verified: 2026-10-29 · Official programme data
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