Your profile

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.
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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.

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
Residence permit paperwork and travel documents for Senegal
Essential Guide

Visa & Residence

Complete guide to visas, CIE residence permits, required documents and real processing timelines for living in Senegal.

Read guide →
Doctor consulting with visitors in Senegal
Essential Guide

Healthcare

Clinics, insurance, emergency contacts, pharmacies and practical healthcare planning for families and residents.

Read guide →
Aerial view of Dakar mosque and coastline
Housing Guide

Dakar Neighborhoods

Compare Almadies, Ngor, Mermoz, Plateau and other areas by lifestyle, commute, schools and budget.

Read guide →
Expert support

Concierge recommendation — Starter pack

Starter pack: ‘One call and I knew exactly where to live, what to pack, and what admin to handle first.’

SR
Sophie R.

Arrived confident for the first time

Recommended for you Starter

Solo or first visit

€150

One-time

Perfect for solo planning their first move to Senegal.

  • Orientation call (45 min)
  • Personalised checklist
  • Key contacts
Choose Starter
Relevant services

Support matched to this profile

Assisted apartment search
Long-term car rental
International health insurance
Residence permit support (CIE)
View concierge →
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