Sierra Leone Capital Gains Tax Guide 2026

Sierra Leone imposes capital gains tax (CGT) on chargeable gains arising from the disposal of assets including real property and business assets. The tax is administered by the National Revenue Authority under the Income Tax Act. The rate is calculated as part of the taxpayer's income and taxed at the applicable marginal rate for individuals or the CIT rate for companies. Principal residence relief is available for an individual's main home.

Overview — CGT in Sierra Leone

Capital gains tax in Sierra Leone applies to gains from the disposal of chargeable assets where the consideration exceeds the allowable cost. Disposal includes sale, exchange, gift, transfer, or deemed disposal. The tax applies to both individuals and companies. Resident individuals and companies are taxed on worldwide chargeable gains; non-residents are taxed only on gains from Sierra Leone assets. For individuals, capital gains are included in total income and taxed at progressive PAYE rates. For companies, gains are included in chargeable profits and taxed at the CIT rate.

Property & Real Estate Gains

Gains from the disposal of real property (land and buildings) are subject to CGT. The chargeable gain is calculated as the difference between the disposal proceeds (net of selling costs) and the acquisition cost (plus enhancement expenditure and buying costs). Principal private residence relief exempts the gain from an individual's main home. Additional residences and investment properties are fully chargeable.

Principal Residence Relief

Gain from the disposal of an individual's principal private residence is exempt from CGT, provided the property has been occupied as the main residence throughout the period of ownership. Partial relief is available where a property has been used partly as a residence and partly for business. The relief covers the building and up to 0.5 acres of land. Additional residences are fully chargeable.

Rollover Relief

Rollover relief allows deferral of CGT when proceeds from the disposal of a business asset are reinvested in a replacement business asset. The relief applies to assets used in a trade or business. To qualify, the replacement asset must be acquired within a specified time period before or after the disposal.

FAQs

How do I calculate my chargeable gain?

The chargeable gain is the difference between the disposal proceeds (net of selling costs) and the acquisition cost (plus enhancement expenditure and buying costs).

Can I offset capital losses against capital gains?

Yes, capital losses in a tax year may be offset against capital gains in the same year. Unrelieved losses may be carried forward but cannot be offset against other income.

What assets are exempt from CGT?

Principal residence, personal effects (motor vehicles, household goods), and assets transferred on death are generally exempt from CGT.

Disclaimer

This guide provides general information about Sierra Leone capital gains tax for the 2026 tax year. Tax laws and rates may change. Always consult with a qualified Sierra Leone tax advisor or the National Revenue Authority for advice specific to your situation. InvestmentKit does not provide tax advice.