By Hassan Osman Kargbo
The Government of Sierra Leone has announced the temporary suspension of all new and renewal applications for work and resident permits as it prepares to launch a fully digital platform for immigration and labour services. The move, which takes effect immediately, is part of an ambitious plan to modernize the country’s permit management system and enhance transparency, efficiency, and data security.
According to an official statement from the Ministry of Labour and the Immigration Department, the pause is a short-term measure intended to allow for a smooth transition to the new online system. The government confirmed that the digital platform will go live on January 1, 2026, after which all applications and renewals will be processed exclusively online.
Authorities explained that the decision is designed to minimize technical disruptions during the migration phase and to ensure that both government staff and users can adjust to the new procedures. “This is a necessary step to prepare for a more efficient, transparent, and secure digital system,” a senior immigration official said. “We want to make sure that once the new platform is launched, it will operate seamlessly without interruptions or errors.”
The government assured foreign workers and employers that no one will be disadvantaged by the suspension. Individuals whose permits expire during the transition period will automatically receive extensions until the new platform becomes operational in January. This means that all valid work and resident permits will remain legally recognized throughout the migration process.
The upcoming platform is being developed by Constrat Systems, a private technology company contracted to design and implement the new digital infrastructure. The system will enable applicants to complete the entire process online from form submission and document upload to payment and approval notifications. It will also integrate data sharing between the Immigration Department, the Ministry of Labour, and other relevant government agencies.
Officials said the reform represents a major step in Sierra Leone’s broader digital transformation agenda, which seeks to automate public services and strengthen accountability in service delivery. “Digitization will make the process faster, more transparent, and less prone to human error,” said a representative from the Ministry of Labour. “It also aligns with government’s vision to improve service access for citizens, investors, and development partners.”
The new digital migration is expected to reduce waiting times for applicants, improve record keeping, and curb the risks of fraud and document tampering that have sometimes affected manual processing. Once the system is launched, all applications for work and resident permits will be done exclusively through the new website managed by Constrat Systems.
The government has encouraged the public, employers, and foreign residents to stay informed through official channels. Anyone with questions or specific concerns is advised to contact the Commissioner of Labour or the Chief Immigration Officer directly for guidance during this transition period.
As Sierra Leone prepares to take this major digital leap, the reform marks a defining step toward building a modern, efficient, and technology driven public administration.
