WASHINGTON/FREETOWN — The United States has imposed new travel restrictions on Sierra Leone, citing high visa overstay rates and deficiencies in information-sharing and screening procedures, according to a proclamation signed by President Donald Trump in June 2025.
Under the proclamation, Sierra Leone faces full entry limitations, placing it among a group of countries the U.S. administration says present heightened immigration and national security risks. The measures are part of broader restrictions targeting nations with what Washington describes as “persistent and severe deficiencies” in managing travel documentation and cooperation with U.S. authorities.
U.S. data cited in the announcement show that Sierra Leone recorded a 16.48% overstay rate for B-1/B-2 visitor visas. The figures were significantly higher for student, vocational and exchange visitor categories, with an overstay rate of 35.83% for F, M and J visas.
U.S. officials say high overstay rates undermine the integrity of the immigration system and complicate efforts to monitor visitors after entry. The proclamation links the restrictions to concerns over border security and enforcement rather than bilateral relations, according to people familiar with the policy.
The move could affect Sierra Leonean travellers seeking to enter the United States for tourism, education and exchange programmes, and may also have implications for academic and cultural cooperation.
There was no immediate response from Sierra Leonean authorities. In the past, officials have said visa overstays are often driven by economic hardship and limited legal migration pathways rather than criminal intent.
The restrictions come amid a renewed push by the U.S. administration to tighten immigration controls and reassess visa policies affecting countries with high overstay statistics.
By Abdul Lamin
