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Residence & citizenship

Sierra Leonean Naturalisation as a Citizen

For those acquiring Sierra Leonean citizenship by naturalisation after long-term legal residence, under the Citizenship Act.

Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
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Under review — check current rules

Residence periods (e.g. 8 years / 15 years) and the precise statutory conditions come from third-party sources and are not verified on an official page reviewed here; confirm against the current Citizenship Act and SLID guidance.

Important information

Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Sierra Leone government website before you apply.
On this page
Official name
Naturalisation (Sierra Leone Citizenship Act 1973)
Route type
Citizenship by naturalisation
Residence requirement
A continuous qualifying period of lawful residence
Third-party sources cite around 8 years for persons of African descent and up to 15 years otherwise; these figures are not verified on an official page here.
Other conditions
Language and customs knowledge, good character, intention to reside
Confirm exact criteria against the current Act and Immigration Department guidance.
Legal basis
Sierra Leone Citizenship Act 1973 (amended 2006 to allow dual citizenship)
Residence required
8 years (applicants of African descent) / 15 years (other applicants)
Per Citizenship Act 1973 as reported by secondary sources; confirm current periods with SLID
Decision
Letter of Approval by the Chief Immigration Officer, then Certificate signed by the President
Where to apply
Sierra Leone Immigration Department
Dual citizenship
Permitted

Who it is for

  • Long-term legal residents seeking Sierra Leonean citizenship
  • Spouses of Sierra Leonean citizens (via the marriage route)

Requirements

  • A continuous qualifying period of lawful residence
  • Knowledge of a native Sierra Leonean language and of the country's customs
  • Good character and an intention to reside permanently
  • Supporting documentation as required by the authorities

How to apply

Applications for naturalisation are made to the responsible government authority; the Immigration Department handles immigration status and can advise on the current process. Confirm eligibility and exact residence periods against the Citizenship Act before applying.

Frequently asked questions

  • After the Immigration Department reviews your application, the Chief Immigration Officer issues an interim Letter of Approval, and the President of Sierra Leone signs the Certificate of Naturalisation that grants citizenship.

Official sources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.

Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.

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