How To Set Up a Business in Sierra Leone

It's easier than ever to start a business in Sierra Leone.
Once you have completed these steps, you will be ready to do business and take advantage of Sierra Leone's growing market opportunities. 

Starting a Business

Step 1: Getting Started

Step 2: Obtain Certificate of Registration and Initial Approvals

Registration is free of charge! Completed applications and supporting documents can be sent via email to register@cac.gov.sl within the period specified for submission, or delivered at our head office at no: 15 Syke Street, Freetown. The process of registration will not delay your operations in Sierra Leone. You shall be notified when your certification is ready.

Step 3: Obtain Sector-Specific Business Licenses

  • The SLIEPA team is ready to guide you through the process of obtaining sector-specific business licenses. Contact us via info@sliepa.gov.sl for further support. 
  • In some sectors, such as mining and fisheries, licenses can be obtained from sector ministries.
    • For the Mining sector, fees vary by activity and citizenship. Investors can find detailed information at www.slmineralresources.org.
    • For the Fisheries sector, all vessels must be registered with the Sierra Leone Maritime Administration and fishing licenses obtained from the Ministry of Marine Resources and Fisheries. Regulations for the fishing industry require that operators obtain an offshore account in Sierra Leone and employ 45% Sierra Leoneans as crew members.
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