Libéria

Carry photo ID with you at all times, such as your driving licence or a copy of the photo page of your passport. You may be asked to show it at any time by immigration officials or the police. 

Drug trafficking and gold and diamond smuggling are illegal. If convicted, you will get a long prison sentence. Local prison conditions are harsh. 

Same-sex sexual activity is illegal in Liberia.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers. 

The Ministry of Justice in Liberia can issue a decree of adoption if all legal requirements are met. However, adoption orders from Liberia are not recognised in the UK. If you’re returning to live in the UK, you’ll need to apply for entry clearance for the child as a Liberian child coming for adoption in the UK. 

Liberia remains a predominantly cash-based society, especially with street vendors.

Credit and debit cards are not generally accepted in Liberia, except for a few of the major hotels and some larger supermarkets. They may be unable to process card payments when internet connections are poor. Not many places accept travellers cheques. Mobile money apps offer an alternative way to make payments, but not all vendors use these.

There are a few ATMs that accept Visa cards in Monrovia, including in the two main hotels used by international visitors. ATMs often run out of money or only have certain denominations.

Foreign exchange and banking facilities are limited. Western Union and MoneyGram can transfer money from the UK, although there are very few offices outside Monrovia.

Liberia’s banks can experience cash shortages of both US dollars and Liberian dollars. Banks and foreign exchange facilities may not be able to pay out transferred funds or fulfil ATM withdrawals. Bring sufficient funds, in US dollars, to cover all expenses.