The Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) announced a new mandatory health declaration form for all international air travelers on July 13, 2026. This significant development was communicated through a public notice issued by the SLCAA on that date. The requirement applies to every individual entering or departing Sierra Leone by air, making it a universal mandate for all international travelers. This initiative aims to enhance public health surveillance and preparedness within the country, ensuring a proactive approach to potential health risks. The SLCAA emphasized that this measure is a key step in safeguarding public well-being while maintaining efficient travel operations.
How to Comply
International air travelers to Sierra Leone are required to complete the online Health Declaration Form within a specific window of time. Passengers are advised to complete the online Health Declaration Form between 24 and 72 hours before their scheduled departure or arrival in Sierra Leone. This timeframe is critical for proper processing and data integration. Passengers must submit the form between 24 and 72 hours prior to their scheduled departure from or arrival in the country. Adherence to this timeframe is key for smooth processing and to avoid potential complications.
The official government portal designated for this submission is https://poep.npha.gov.sl. All declarations must be routed through this specific website to be considered valid and recorded by the authorities. This centralized system ensures that all necessary health data is collected efficiently and accurately, contributing to the overall effectiveness of the public health surveillance program. Travelers are strongly advised to familiarize themselves with the portal and complete the form well within the stipulated timeframe.
Authorities have indicated that failure to complete the Health Declaration Form before arriving at the airport could lead to significant processing issues. Such non-compliance may result in unnecessary delays during check-in procedures, departure formalities, or arrival processing at Freetown International Airport. The SLCAA has stressed that these delays could impact individual travel plans and overall airport operations, showing the importance of timely submission. The mandate is designed to streamline health checks, and non-compliance disrupts this intended efficiency.
Purpose and Importance
The new health declaration form is designed to bolster national public health efforts, according to authorities. Officials state that the measure is intended to support national public health efforts and ensure safe, secure, and efficient air travel for all passengers. The government views the initiative as a critical component of its strategy to monitor and respond to potential health risks associated with international travel. This requirement is intended to provide a systematic approach to public health surveillance at points of entry, allowing officials to quickly identify and manage any emerging health concerns. The move shows the nation's commitment to protecting its citizens and visitors from communicable diseases while maintaining operational efficiency at its borders. The mandatory electronic submission facilitates data collection and analysis, allowing health officials to identify and address health trends proactively and implement targeted interventions if necessary. This systematic approach contributes significantly to the overall health security of Sierra Leone.
Official Statement
The Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) encouraged travelers to comply with the new health declaration requirement to facilitate a smooth travel experience through Freetown International Airport. The Authority stated that adherence to the new mandate would help ensure efficiency at all points of entry and departure, benefiting both travelers and airport staff. The Civil Aviation Authority also expressed appreciation to passengers and stakeholders for their cooperation in implementing the new health protocols. This collective effort is intended to support the ongoing public health surveillance initiatives, which are vital for national health security. The SLCAA emphasized that the success of this new system relies heavily on the cooperation of all international travelers.
