Benin visa requirements for Sierra Leoneans

Travel and visa requirements

Beninese Visa is not required for Sierra Leoneans

Stay Duration: 90 days

Entry Requirements

  • Benin officially the Benin Republic was formerly known as Dahomey. 
  • Sierra Leone passport holders can stay in Benin visa-free for a maximum period of 90 days.
  • Visitors are required to possess a passport valid for at least six months beyond departure from Benin with at least one blank page for visa stamps. 
  • Visitors must also have a valid health certificate. 
  • Visitors under the age of 18 must show travel authorization from their parents or guardians.
  • Visitors must hold proof of sufficient funds and onward/return travel tickets.
  • There are no restrictions on currencies upon entry to the country.
  • Visitors are not to pay any airport tax upon embarkation at the airport.
  • Benin has two rainy and two dry seasons. The major rainy season is from April to late July, with a shorter less intense rainy period from late September to November. The main dry season is from December to April, with a short cooler dry season from late July to early September. 
  • French is the official language in Benin. However, indigenous languages such as Fon, Yom and Yoruba are considered national languages.
  • West African CFA Franc is Benin’s official currency.
  • Benin’s tropical climate leads it to highly depend on agriculture and it is a large exporter of cotton and palm oil 
  • The largest religious group in Benin is Roman Catholicism followed closely by Islam, Vodoo and Protestantism. 
  • Benin is one of the main centres of voodoo practices and that culture remains prevalent.
  • Transportation within Benin is made available by road, rail, water and air.
  • The Benin Republic uses the West African Standard time (GMT+1) which places it 1 hour ahead of Sierra Leone.
  • The estimated flight time from Sierra Leone to Benin is 2 hours 23 minutes.
  • Photography near sensitive or government sites, like military installations or the airport, is strictly prohibited.
  • Visitors are advised to avoid travelling alone and maintain a high level of vigilance, especially at night and in isolated areas, including beaches.
  • Good manners is valued in Benin therefore, it is appropriate to shake the hand of each person present upon entering or leaving a place. 
  • Offering food and drink to visitors is a key element of hospitality and to refuse is considered rude to the Benin people.
  • Many people in Benin eat with the fingers of the right hand. It is considered bad taste to eat with the left hand or offer another person something with the same hand.
  • The power and socket plug used in Benin are of Type E. The standard voltage is 220 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.
  • The basic meal in Benin consists of a staple starch, eaten with a sauce that contains vegetables and meat or fish. 
  • Although the nation is relatively small and has only a few large cities, it, however, affords travellers the opportunity to explore its museums, wonderful architecture and markets.
  • Benin also has a lot of recreational sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the official language spoken in Benin?

French is the official language in Benin. However, indigenous languages such as Fon, Yom and Yoruba are considered national languages.

Are there areas in Benin where English is spoken?

English is growing in importance as a foreign language in Benin. However,  there are no whole areas in Benin that speak English. Benin only borders one English-speaking country (Nigeria) and while individuals who live near the border may speak English, they would most likely speak the Nigerian pidgin-English.

Are there ATMs in Benin?

There are a number of ATMs in Benin, most of which accept Visa Card.