Sierra Leone Government tightens foreign employment regulations: Directs  Companies to Submit List of Foreign Employees

FREETOWN SIERRA LEONE – The government of Sierra Leone through the Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security in Sierra Leone has announced that all institutions and companies employing foreign nationals are required to submit a comprehensive list of these employees by February 28, 2025.  The statement dated 5^th February 2025 said part of the government’s ongoing efforts to regulate the workforce, mandates that companies detail their foreign staff’s names, designations, qualifications, period of engagement, and job responsibilities within the country.

Accordingly, announcement comes as part of a broader policy to ensure compliance with the Work Permit Act 2023 (No. 11 of 2023).

And for them, it is in line with sections 11 and 13 of the Act. Analysts  have said the new regulation aims to enhance transparency within the labour market and streamline the process of managing foreign employment in Sierra Leone.

“All submissions must be in hard copy and addressed to the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry,” the statement reads.

The deadline for the submission of these lists is set for February 28, 2025, and the ministry has emphasized that no exceptions will be made.

‘’The policy aims to strengthen national workforce statistics, facilitate better workforce planning, and ensure that foreign employment aligns with Sierra Leone’s economic development goals.  They (foreigners)are so loose here and taking advantage over our weak systems , It is also seen as an important step in securing local job opportunities for Sierra Leonean citizens, with the government aiming to balance the inflow of expatriates with the domestic workforce’s needs.’’

A political and employment analyst told Public review.

However, reports have suggested that some companies, particularly those with large expatriate workforces, may face logistical challenges in meeting the deadline.

The Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security has emphasized that the move is part of a significant step in managing and regulating the workforce within Sierra Leone.