Assessing Travel and Visa Obligations

Whether you can travel lawfully as a business visitor or require work authorization depends on the types of activities you will be conducting during your time in Liberia. In case you are unsure if your activities constitute business or work, please seek advice from your immigration counsel.

Traveling for Business

What sorts of activities can I pursue as a business visitor?

Business visitors traveling to Liberia may engage in the activities below. This list is not comprehensive and other activities may qualify as business.

• Attend business meetings
• Attend conferences
• Attend training
• Develop professional business contacts

Negotiate business contracts

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

All foreign nationals require a visa to enter Liberia to conduct business activities and must obtain it at a Liberian Diplomatic Post, prior to travel. Only a few select nationals, including ECOWAS nationals and Taiwanese nationals do not require a visa prior to travel and can obtain a visa upon arrival in Liberia.

Proof of vaccination against Yellow Fever is required for travel to Liberia.

Working in Liberia

What sorts of activities require a work permit?

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

• Hands-on technical work
• Repairs and maintenance
• Project planning and implementation
• Installation and testing of software
• Consulting

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

Whether you require a work permit depends on your qualifications, whether your employer has an entity in Liberia, and the nature of your work. The most common Liberian work permit is the Residence and Work Permit (direct hire work permit).

Are there any nationals who are exempt from work permit requirements?

There are no nationals who are exempt from the work permit requirement in Liberia.

What else should I know?

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

Copyright © 2016 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.