The Liberian government says it will begin receiving third-country nationals transferred from the United States under an agreement that could see up to 1,200 people hosted in Liberia over a one-year period.
Information Minister Jerolinmek Matthew Piah made the disclosure during a press briefing at the Ministry of Information, saying the arrangement was reached through an exchange of notes between Liberia and the United States in September 2025.
According to Minister Piah, the agreement allows Liberia to receive third-country nationals from countries in Africa and the Western Hemisphere who have been medically cleared for travel.
The first group of 20 people is expected to arrive at Roberts International Airport on Thursday, August 20, 2026. Piah said preparations have been completed to receive the group.
The government says the individuals will not be held in detention upon arrival. Instead, they will be allowed to move freely and will have access to Liberia’s legal system.
Piah also said those transferred will be treated as guests of Liberia and will be free to leave the country if they choose. Those who decide to remain in Liberia, however, may apply for asylum in accordance with Liberian law.
Defending the decision, the Information Minister said Liberia’s history makes the country suited to offering protection to people who cannot return to their countries of origin. He pointed to Liberia’s founding as a home for freed Africans from the United States and its support for African liberation movements during the struggle against colonial rule.
“We have always welcomed people who cannot return to their home of origin,” Piah said, arguing that turning away the group would not be in Liberia’s best interest.
Under the arrangement, Liberia is expected to receive technical and financial assistance from the United States to strengthen the country’s migration management systems and related infrastructure.
Piah has meanwhile called on Liberians to welcome the arrivals and treat them with what he described as traditional African hospitality.
Justice Minister Cllr. Oswald Tweh sought to assure the public that security concerns would be addressed through Liberia’s own screening process.
He said although U.S. authorities conduct initial checks, Liberian officials will carry out an independent security assessment before anyone is admitted into the country. The United States is also required to provide Liberia with a full list of people scheduled for transfer ahead of their arrival.
Tweh said the arrangement gives Liberian authorities the opportunity to refuse entry to anyone considered unsuitable.
He added that while many of those being transferred were removed from the United States for immigration-related violations, Liberian authorities will conduct their own checks to establish the circumstances surrounding each person’s removal.
