By Saidu Jalloh, Daily Scope Reporter
Sierra Leone has again been left off South Africa’s visa-exemption list, as the Department of Home Affairs announced 32 African countries whose citizens can enter without a visa in 2026.
Under the updated policy, nationals from the listed countries may travel to South Africa for between 30 and 90 days without applying for a visa in advance. Eligibility, however, depends on nationality and passport category.
The department noted that while some countries enjoy visa-free access on ordinary, diplomatic, official, service and special passports, others qualify only with diplomatic or official documents. Travellers were urged to confirm requirements tied to their specific passport type before departure.
For the second consecutive year, Sierra Leone was not included. The exclusion means Sierra Leoneans will still be required to obtain a visa prior to travel, unlike citizens of the 32 countries now on the exemption roster.
South Africa remains a key destination for Sierra Leoneans pursuing business, education, and tourism. The continued omission is therefore likely to draw concern from travelers, students, and business stakeholders, especially as the continent pushes for greater regional mobility and economic integration.
*The 32 African countries on South Africa’s 2026 visa-free list
Algeria, Angola, Botswana, Cape Verde, Congo, Egypt, Ethiopia, Gabon, Ghana, Guinea, Ivory Coast, Kenya, Kingdom of Eswatini, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritius, Morocco, Mozambique, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, São Tomé and Príncipe, Senegal, Seychelles, Tanzania, Tunisia, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
Government officials in Freetown are yet to comment on the latest update.
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