BGC Senegal

 

How to Become a Senegalese Citizen?

Senegal, located in West Africa, is well known for its vibrant culture and stunning natural landscape. Becoming a Senegalese citizen entails a multi-step process that starts with acquiring a long-term residence permit and culminates in naturalization. Below are the steps to acquire Senegalese citizenship:

Step 1: Acquire a long-term residence permit

Qualifying applicants are either married to a Senegalese citizen or have been living in the country for at least two years. Applicants must demonstrate their economic stability as well, including:

    • Proof of ownership or rental of property or of having their own accommodation

 

    • Evidence of financial means

 

    • Employment contract

 

Exact requirements vary depending on an applicant’s specific circumstances.

Step 2: Acquire the Senegalese Administrative Card

All foreign residents must obtain a Senegalese Administrative Card (Carte de Séjour) in order to remain in Senegal. The process requires a completed application, along with the following documents:

    • Valid passport with personal information and photos

 

    • Proof of resident status in Senegal

 

    • Three recently taken passport photographs

 

This card must be renewed every 5 years.

Step 3: Make a Request for Naturalization

Once the Senegalese Administrative Card is obtained, applicants must submit a request for Senegalese naturalization. The request must be accompanied by several documents, including:

    • Proof of financial resources

 

    • Valid passport

 

    • Certificate of good morality (obtained from the Senegalese Police Force)

 

    • Birth certificate or other documents demonstrating three generations of Senegalese nationality

 

    • Certificate of professional qualifications

 

Step 4: Pass the Naturalization Test

The naturalization test consists of oral and written components. The written portion covers culture, history, language, and the State Constitution. The oral exam questions are based on an applicant’s age, career and experience.

Step 5: Receive the Naturalization Certificate

Upon successful completion of the exams, applicants receive a Naturalization Certificate from the National Directorate of Civil Status and Nationality. This certificate is not a form of citizenship; rather, it serves as proof that the applicant has taken all the necessary steps towards achieving Senegalese citizenship.

Step 6: Obtain the Senegalese National ID Card

After being Naturalized, applicants must apply for a Senegalese National Identity Card (Carte Nationale d’Identité). To apply, applicants must collect and provide:

    • A copy of their birth certificate

 

    • University qualifications or diplomas

 

    • Proof of employment

 

    • Proof of residence in the country

 

    • Proof of nationality (Naturalization Certificate)

 

Step 7: Receive Citizenship Declaration

If all name and identity requirements are met, applicants must attend a public hearing to receive their Citizenship Declaration. This is the final step to becoming a Senegalese citizen.

Becoming a Senegalese citizen requires a significant amount of documentation and paperwork. Applicants must ensure they meet the various requirements and provide all the necessary documents in order to complete the multi-step process.

Good luck, and welcome to Senegal!