Senegal is a country in West Africa, bordered by Mauritania, Mali, Guinea, and Guinea-Bissau, with The Gambia forming an enclave within its territory. Senegal is a member of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). The country has a relatively liberal visa policy, granting visa-free access for 90 days to citizens of the European Union, North America, and many other countries, as well as visa on arrival at Dakar’s international airport.

2. ECOWAS Free Movement

As a member of ECOWAS, Senegal allows citizens of all ECOWAS member states to enter, reside, and seek work without a visa under the ECOWAS Protocol on Free Movement of Persons. This protocol facilitates full freedom of movement within the West African region.

ECOWAS Free Movement Countries • Benin, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Cote d’Ivoire • The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau • Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger • Nigeria, Senegal (host), Sierra Leone, Togo

3. Visa-Free Access — 90 Days

Citizens of approximately 30 countries (in addition to ECOWAS members) may enter Senegal visa-free for stays of up to 90 days. This includes major Western nations and key bilateral partners.

Countries with 90-Day Visa-Free Access (selected) • All European Union member states • United States, Canada • United Kingdom • Japan, South Korea • India • Israel • Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, Chile • Morocco, Tunisia • UAE (United Arab Emirates) • Turkey • Philippines, Indonesia • Select other bilateral partners

4. Visa on Arrival

Citizens of most African Union (AU) member states not covered by the ECOWAS free movement protocol, and additional nationalities, may obtain a visa on arrival at Dakar’s Blaise Diagne International Airport. The visa on arrival is valid for 1 month.

Visa on Arrival — Key Details • Available at Blaise Diagne International Airport (DSS), Dakar ONLY • Not available at land border crossings • Duration: up to 1 month • Fee: varies by nationality (typically USD 50) • Eligible: African Union member states (non-ECOWAS) + approximately 50 additional nationalities • Requirements: valid passport, return ticket, proof of funds, accommodation address

5. Visa in Advance

Nationals not eligible for visa-free access or visa on arrival must apply for a visa at a Senegalese diplomatic mission (embassy or consulate) before travelling. Senegal accepts applications for tourist, business, and long-stay visas.

Visa Application Requirements • Valid passport with at least 6 months validity beyond intended stay • Completed visa application form • Two passport-size photographs • Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or letter of invitation) • Return or onward travel ticket • Proof of financial means • Yellow fever vaccination certificate (mandatory) • Visa fee payment

6. Yellow Fever Requirement

Senegal requires all travellers to present a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate upon entry, regardless of nationality. This is a strict requirement: travellers without a valid certificate will be denied entry or subject to vaccination on arrival at their own expense.

7. Future Policy Developments

Senegal has indicated potential reciprocal visa policy changes in the future, which may affect certain bilateral arrangements. Travellers are advised to check the latest visa requirements with Senegalese embassies or the official Senegalese immigration authority before travel.

8. Entry Requirements Summary

General Entry Requirements • Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity) • Yellow fever vaccination certificate (mandatory for ALL nationalities) • Return or onward ticket • Proof of sufficient funds • Accommodation address • Applicable visa or proof of visa-free eligibility