Ivory Coast visa requirements for Sierra Leoneans

Travel and visa requirements

Ivorian Visa is not required for Sierra Leoneans

Stay Duration: 90 days

Entry Requirements

  • Ivory Coast is also known as Cote d’ Ivoire.
  • Citizens of Sierra Leone intending to visit Ivory Coast can be granted a 90-day visa-free entry.
  • They are expected to possess original passports with at least six months validity beyond the planned period of stay in Ivory Coast.
  • The passports are to have at least one blank page for entry stamps.
  • Besides passport requirements, an international health certificate showing current yellow fever immunization is required for entry into Ivory Coast.
  • If a visitor fails to submit proof of yellow fever immunization, he/she may be required to submit to vaccination at entry before clearing immigration, at a cost of XOF 7,000.
  • All visitors must have a return or onward tickets.
  • Airport tax of XOF 4000 is levied on visitors arriving Ivory Coast via Abidjan airport and XOF 3000 for visitors arriving at other airports.
  • The tax is to be paid upon departure from the country.
  • There are no foreign currency restrictions on entry in Ivory Coast. However, upon exit, they are to be declared.
  • The official currency in Ivory Coast is the West Africa CAF franc (XOF).
  • 1 West African CAF franc is equivalent to 12.35 Sierra Leonean Leone.
  • There is no time difference between Ivory Coast and Sierra Leone.
  • Ivory Coast’s weather is generally warm and humid.
  • There are three seasons: warm and dry (November to March), hot and dry (March to May), and hot and wet (June to October). 
  • Ivory Coast operates on a 220 V supply voltage and 50 Hz frequency. The power plugs are types C and E
  • Ivory Coast is a secular state, and the country’s constitution provides freedom of religion. However, Christians marginally outnumber the Muslims. Traditional worshipers represent the minority.  
  • The officially spoken language in the country is French. However, being a multilingual country, there are about 78 other indigenous languages.
  • Importation of firearms, explosives and ammunition without special permission is not allowed
  • Illegal Chemicals and drugs are prohibited in Ivory Coast.
  • The Ivorians see handshaking as an important ritual – not just the first time you meet someone but every new day.
  • Attiéké is one of the main staples in Ivory Coast. It is made from fermented cassava, which is granulated so it becomes like couscous in texture.
  • Placali is another staple. It is made from fermented cassava dough.
  • Popular tourist attractions in Ivory Coast include: The Grand Bassam, Marahoué National Park and The Waterfall in Man.
  • There are good transportation services that provide convenient means to get around. There are taxis, car rental services, water taxis and trains.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Ivory Coast?

The best time to visit the country is from November through March. By this time, the temperatures are bearable due to the warm and dry season. The parks are also abloom during this time of the year and wildlife is abundant.

Is it safe to visit Ivory Coast?

Safety in the country is not on a high level. There is petty theft, political differences and violent crimes. Visitors are advised to be vigilant at all times.

What is the official language in Ivory Coast?

French is the official spoken language in the country. It is spoken by approximately half of the country's population.