Everything you need to know about tourist visas, long-stay permits, residence cards (CIE), costs, timelines, and avoiding the most common mistakes International residents make when relocating to Senegal.
Up to 90 days for most nationalities
Via French consulate
Apply after arriving in Senegal
Approx official fee
Free and granted on arrival for most nationalities. Cannot be extended from inside Senegal — you must leave and re-enter.
Required for anyone intending to stay beyond 90 days. Applied through the French consulate before departure.
Requires acceptance from a recognised Senegalese institution and is processed as a long-stay category.
Designed for entrepreneurs and employed professionals. Requirements vary depending on your activity.
Prepare passport, financial proof, accommodation details, insurance, and translated documents.
Schedule an appointment with the French consulate or embassy handling Senegalese visa applications.
Submit documents and pay the consular fee which typically ranges between 60–100 EUR.
Standard processing usually takes around 2–3 weeks depending on nationality and workload.
Carry proof of accommodation and onward travel when arriving at immigration control.
Within 90 days after arrival, begin the residence card process.
Requirements vary by nationality and consulate, but these are the most commonly requested documents.
Minimum 6 months validity beyond intended stay.
2 recent passport-size photos.
Bank statements covering at least 3 months.
International health insurance valid in Senegal.
Must be translated into French if required.
Police clearance translated into French.
Depends on nationality
XOF official fee
Similar renewal cost
CIE waiting period
The Carte d’Identite d’Etranger (CIE) is mandatory for foreigners staying in Senegal beyond 90 days.
Apply within 90 days of arrival
Submit documents at Sûreté Urbaine
Receive temporary récépissé while waiting
Renew yearly before expiry
The 90-day rule starts from your arrival date in Senegal — not your visa issue date.
Senegal is relaxed but overstaying creates legal problems. Fines and forced departures do happen. If you decide to stay longer than 90 days, apply for a long-stay visa before you arrive — not after
The 90-day clock starts on your entry date, not your visa start date. Many International residents lose track and find themselves in violation. Set a reminder the day you arrive.
There is a market of unofficial ‘visa agents’ who offer to process your CIE. Some are legitimate, many are not. Use only official channels or a verified concierge service
All foreign documents must be translated into French by a certified translator. Budget 30-80 EUR per document.Not checking consulate-specific requirements: Requirements can differ between French consulates in different countries. Always verify with your specific consulate.