Liberia

When traveling to Liberia, your nationality and the types of activities you will conduct during your trip will determine whether you may travel lawfully as a business visitor or if work authorization will be required. Please seek advice from your immigration counsel if you are uncertain about the specific types of activities that constitute business or work.

What types of activities may I engage in as a business visitor?

As a business visitor to Liberia, you may engage in the activities below. While this list is not exhaustive and other activities could qualify as business, you may:

• » Attend business meetings
• » Buy goods for sale outside the country
• » Tour a company facility
• » Attend a trade show or seminar convention

If I qualify as a business visitor, do I need a visa for Liberia?

Most foreign nationals who intend to perform business activities in Liberia are required to obtain a visa for entry from a Liberian Embassy or Consulate prior to travel. Only a few select nationals, including from ECOWAS countries, are not required to obtain a visa prior to travel and may obtain a visa upon arrival in Liberia.

What types of activities require work authorization?

The activities below, whether paid or unpaid, generally constitute work under Liberian law. This list is not exhaustive, and many other professional activities are considered work in Liberia, even if conducted for a short duration.

• » Project implementation
• » Marketing
• » Consulting

If I am traveling to Liberia for work, what type of work authorization do I need?

Requirements for work authorization depend on your qualifications, on the nature and duration of your work, and on whether your employer has an entity in Liberia. All foreign nationals who wish to engage in active, productive work activities in Liberia must obtain work authorization in the form of a Residence Permit and a Work Permit.

Is it possible to be exempted from work authorization requirements?

There are no nationalities with established work authorization exemptions for Liberia.

Inevitably, the legal and strategic considerations impacting visa selection, as well as visa waiver and work authorization eligibility, entail the careful consideration of many factors. We recommend that you consult with your immigration counsel before taking any course of action.

Copyright © 2021 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. Government immigration agencies often change their policies and practices without notice; please consult an immigration professional for up-to-date information. This document does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. BAL maintains comprehensive immigration information and processing specifics for our clients.