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Staying in Senegal for the long run.

More than a visit, less than a full relocation — a long-term stay in Senegal requires the right visa, a stable base, and a real understanding of local life. Here’s how to make it work, comfortably.

Note

Tourist visas allow stays up to 90 days. For anything beyond that, a long-stay visa or residence permit is required. Plan this before you arrive — it’s much harder to change your status from inside the country.

Seasons guide

Dry season
Best to arrive

November to May — Low humidity, 20-30°C, and no rain. Perfect conditions for settling in and exploring Dakar comfortably.

Rainy season
Plan ahead

June to October — Heavy rains and occasional flooding. Housing prices often drop, making it a good option for budget-conscious experienced travelers.

Connectivity at a glance
Visa <90 days
Tourist — free
Visa 90+ days
Long-stay required
Best arrival
November-May (dry season)
Housing
From 300 EUR/month
Monthly budget
800-1,500 EUR
Checklist
18 steps total

Your profile checklist

Tick items as you complete them

0 / 20 completed
Phase 1: Before departure

Weeks -4 to 0

Clarify your intended length of stay
Under or over 90 days changes everything administratively
Apply for long-stay visa if needed [90+ days]
Allow 2-3 weeks processing time
Get travel & health insurance
Must cover the full duration of your stay
Research neighborhoods & housing
Almadies, N’Gor, Yoff for long-term comfort and calm
Plan your arrival during dry season if possible
November to May is best for settling in
Book short-term accommodation for first 2 weeks
Guesthouse or furnished apartment
Phase 2: First two Weeks

Days 1 – 14

Get a local SIM card
Orange or Free Senegal. Data plans are affordable.
Set up Wave or Orange Money
Essential for daily payments and transport
Find your long-term apartment
Negotiate the monthly rate directly with the landlord
Explore your neighborhood on foot
Markets, pharmacies, transport stops, local life
Locate a reliable clinic or general practitioner
For non-emergency health needs
Learn basic Wolof and French phrases
Opens doors and earns deep local respect
Phase 3: Setting In

Months 1 – 3

Apply for residence permit (CIE) [90+ days]
Must be done within 90 days of arrival
Set up internet at home
Sonatel fiber or 4G router
Open a local bank account if needed
Useful for rent payments and financial safety
Build a local daily routine
Markets, beach, cafes, local transport, neighborhood life
Join the International residents and local community
Visene forum, neighborhood groups, local associations
You’re home. Enjoy Senegal fully. Teranga
The art of Senegalese welcome.

Curated guides

View all guides
Daily Life in Senegal
Curated Guide
Daily Life in Senegal: The Practical Guide
Read guide →
Best Areas in Dakar
Curated Guide
Best Areas for Long-term Living in Dakar
Read guide →
Cost of Living
Curated Guide
How Much Does It Cost to Live in Senegal?
Read guide →
Expert support

Concierge recommendation — Starter pack

“ 8 months in Dakar from Italy, Starter pack: ‘One call and I knew exactly where to live, what to pack, and what admin to handle firs”

Sophie R.
Sophie R.

Arrived confident for the first time in my life

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Premium Package

Personalized support for long-term residents planning to settle comfortably in Senegal, with guidance on housing, local services, paperwork and everyday life in Dakar.

€150