Sierra Leone has launched an immigration by investment initiative capable of attracting investors and foreign exchange into Sierra Leone.

Coming under two pathways – a fast-track citizenship scheme and the Go-For-Gold (GFG) Permanent Residency Program - the initiative which aims at stimulating the economy allows for top end investors (to) make purchases of gold bullion mined in the country at a discount of 2 percent. An investors would also have an unrestrained access to not less than 20kg of gold bullion over a period of five years. A prospective investor would need to make a minimum of $100,000 worth of investment to qualify as a member of the GFG exclusive club to tap into these benefits.

FS reliably gathered this initiative would channel 100% of gold purchases to small-scale miners, as a means of empowering local economies and to enhance the mining sector. The program heralds a 90-day fast-track citizenship route. Coming on the heels of the Go-For-Gold (GFG) Permanent Residency Program the fast track citizenship scheme  would enable investors secure citizenship within 60 days, thereby positioning the country as very competitive.

Sierra Leone's Chief Immigration Officer, Alusine Kanneh, Chief Immigration Officer explained the motivation for the program: 'Our goal is to emulate smaller nations that have successfully harnessed their national institutions, natural resources, and human talent to achieve modernization and growth.' He disclosed that the new initiatives to citizenship are designed to unlock wealth for the benefit of all Sierra Leoneans.

Stephen Barnes, co-founder of the Hong Kong Visa Centre and the main architect behind the Go-For-Gold program, speaking on the program reiterated that the fast-track option would 'considerably expands Sierra Leone's immigration framework.' Adding that the government is keen to attract those 'who want to actively contribute to the country's growth while benefiting from a clear and efficient path to citizenship.' The GFG citizenship route offers two distinct pathways under its 'facilitated naturalization' framework viz:

• Fast Track Naturalization: This option grants citizenship within 90 days for a total investment package of $140,000, which encompasses all program fees, legal costs, due diligence, and necessary documentation.
• Heritage Naturalization: Candidates with African ancestry have the opportunity to attain citizenship within 60 days for an investment of $100,000. Applicants are required to submit a DNA test report as part of their application process.

Each pathway allows for the inclusion of qualifying family members at an additional cost of $10,000 per dependent. Eligible family members include dependent children below 18, spouses (and legal second spouses), dependent parents of any age.

Importantly, investors can apply directly for GFG citizenship without needing to obtain permanent residency first. For those who choose the PR route without immediate intent to pursue citizenship, the government is still formulating naturalization options under this framework.

Participants in the GFG Program gain access to the exclusive GFG Club, which offers a plethora of benefits including personalized travel and concierge support, assistance with business incorporations, tax residency, and early access to investment opportunities. Notably, members of the club can purchase gold bullion mined in Sierra Leone at a 2% discount to market rates, with a limit of up to 20 kg over five years. This initiative channels 100% of gold purchases to small-scale miners, thereby empowering local economies and enhancing the mining sector.

Acquiring Sierra Leonean citizenship opens doors to investment opportunities and also offers practical advantages in terms of mobility government officials said. As a member of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Sierra Leonean passport holders can enjoy visa-free travel to 66 destinations across Africa and Asia, along with residency privileges in 15 West African nations. Barnes highlighted that the program 'isn't just about granting citizenship' but also creating a framework that 'actively supports Sierra Leone's economic development goals.' He elaborated that the funds generated from the program will be directed towards 'critical projects' that promote sustainable economic growth.

With the country's introduction of a fast-track citizenship route as a strategic initiative aimed at fostering economic development through this attraction of foreign investments. The country's GFG in diversifying its citizenship offerings is ensuring that these initiatives align with national interests and sustainable growth objectives.