Senegal Entry Requirements

Children must have their own passport (family passports are not accepted). Minors (under 18) traveling without both parents should carry a notarized letter of consent from the non-traveling parent(s) authorizing the trip. The letter should include: child's full name and birth date, parent's contact information, travel dates and destination, traveling companion's information, and parent's signature notarized by appropriate authority. If traveling with one parent, a consent letter from the other parent is recommended. Children traveling alone or with non-parents may face additional scrutiny at immigration. Carry original or certified copies of birth certificates. For children with different surnames than accompanying adults, bring documentation proving relationship. Children are subject to the same visa requirements as adults but may receive visa-free entry if accompanying visa-exempt parents.

Pets entering Senegal require: valid health certificate issued by licensed veterinarian within 10 days of travel, stating the animal is free from contagious diseases; current rabies vaccination certificate (administered at least 30 days but not more than 12 months before entry); import permit from Senegalese veterinary services (Direction des Services Vétérinaires) - apply well in advance; microchip identification is recommended. Dogs and cats must be at least 3 months old. Some breeds may be restricted. Airlines have specific requirements for pet transport - check with your carrier. Upon arrival, pets may be inspected by veterinary officials. Quarantine is not typically required if documentation is in order, but officials reserve the right to quarantine animals if health concerns arise. Keep all vaccination records and health documents accessible during travel. Consider pet travel insurance. Note that bringing pets to West Africa presents health risks to the animals; consult with a veterinarian familiar with tropical diseases.

Tourist visas or visa-free entry typically allow stays of 30-90 days. For longer stays, apply for a visa extension at the Direction de la Police de l'Air et des Frontières in Dakar before your authorized stay expires. Extension applications require: valid passport, current visa or entry stamp, proof of sufficient funds, proof of accommodation, reason for extension, passport photos, and fees (approximately XOF 25,000-50,000). Extensions are granted at the discretion of immigration authorities and are not guaranteed. For extended business stays, consider applying for a business visa or temporary residence permit. Long-term stays for work, study, or residence require appropriate visas obtained before entry or changed from tourist status (which can be difficult). Work permits require sponsorship by a Senegalese employer. Student visas require acceptance from a recognized educational institution. Residence permits for retirees or long-term visitors have specific financial and documentation requirements. Overstaying your authorized period results in fines and can lead to deportation or future entry bans. If planning extended or frequent stays, consult with a Senegalese embassy or immigration attorney about the most appropriate visa category.

Business visitors conducting meetings, attending conferences, or exploring business opportunities can typically enter visa-free or with tourist visas (depending on nationality). However, actual employment or paid work requires a work permit and appropriate visa. Business travelers should carry: invitation letter from Senegalese company or conference organizers, business cards, proof of employment from home company, and documentation of business purpose. For extended business stays or setting up operations, consult with immigration authorities about business visa requirements. Registration with local authorities may be required for certain business activities.

Travelers with dual nationality including Senegalese citizenship must enter and exit Senegal using their Senegalese passport. This is strictly enforced. Using a foreign passport when you are also a Senegalese citizen can cause significant complications. If you have acquired another citizenship, verify your status with Senegalese authorities as some circumstances may affect your Senegalese citizenship. Dual nationals may face different requirements regarding military service, taxation, or other civic obligations.

Journalists, photographers, and film crews may require special accreditation from the Ministère de la Communication. Professional media equipment may require temporary import permits. Working as a journalist on a tourist visa is not permitted. Apply for appropriate press credentials well before travel. Filming in certain locations (government buildings, military installations, airports) requires special permission. Senegal generally welcomes international media but requires proper authorization for professional activities.