Living in Senegal: the ultimate expat guide
Everything you need to know for a successful life in Senegal.
Wishing to live in Senegal? Located in Western Africa, the country is renowned for its hospitality: no wonder then that "Teranga", the Wolof world for hospitality, is a real motto. Expatriates settling here to live and work will have to master French to enjoy their expat experience to the fullest. They will discover a multiethnic nation with a modern culture shaped by traditional heritage.
The former capital of French West Africa, Senegal achieved independence from France peaceably in 1960, but decades of French influence is still clear to see. From its political system and currency (the Franc CFA - African Communities Financial Franc) to its sectarian state and education system. In addition, French is the country's official language, but most Senegalese will speak to each other in one of the many local dialects, with Wolof (the de facto national language) the most widely spoken, as well as Diola, Pular, Malinke and Serer.
Thanks to its geographical location, stable political system and modern infrastructure, Senegal is a popular destination for Western companies and foreign professionals. From UN agencies and charities to NGOs and corporate firms, many organisations that operate in West Africa are based in Senegal, especially in Dakar, which is also home to over 80 embassies.
Of the 15.4 million population, an estimated 200,000 are foreigners.
The economy of Senegal
Senegal is the fourth largest economy in West Africa and is one of 15 members of ECOWAS (the Economic Community of West African States). Senegal aspires to be a middle-income country by 2035, and since 2016 its economy has grown by an average of 6% year-on-year, while unemployment has fallen to 6.46% of the population.
From renewable energy and tourism to agriculture and fishing, Senegal’s economy is built on a number of diverse sectors, with recent oil and gas discoveries off the Senegalese coast set to shake up the economy once more. Turkey, India, France and China are among the country's main economic partners.
Senegal is also one of the region's most highly-educated countries, with a literacy rate of almost 60%. Its education system is based on the French equivalent, while there are five public universities in the country and a large number of private ones, mainly in Dakar. Meanwhile, international and North American schools, such as the International School of Dakar (ISD), provide quality English-language education for foreigners.
Politics in Senegal
Senegal is seen as a beacon of stability in an unstable region. A multi-party democracy, Senegal has never suffered a political coup and has elected its presidents freely and fairly through universal suffrage since independence. Current President, Macky Sall, was elected for a second term in 2019 and will serve until 2024, with term limits reduced from seven to five years in 2017.
Good to know:
The French first came to Senegal in 1659 when they established the city of Saint-Louis on the Senegal river. In 1857, the French founded Dakar, which would later become the capital of French West Africa. To this day, many Senegalese regions, including Dakar, Saint-Louis, Thiès and Kaolack, are members of the International Francophone Regions Association.
The climate in Senegal
In general, Senegal experiences two seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. For the north of the country (north of The Gambia), the dry season lasts from October to June with daytime temperatures peaking at around 34°C in October/November and dipping as low as 20°C in February. The rainy season takes place between July-September. However, in the southern Casamance region (south of The Gambia), the rainy season is more prolonged, lasting from June-October. In addition, interior temperatures are often much hotter than on the coast.
Expatriation in Senegal
Senegal has embraced development with open arms and is one of the fastest-developing nations in West Africa. Dakar is a modern, dynamic city that is gaining an increasingly positive reputation among businesses and tourists alike, while the country is world-famous for its hospitality, known in the Wolof language as 'teranga'.
Tourism is one of the biggest industries in Senegal and the virtues that entice tourists - year-round sun, golden beaches, friendly population and low security-risks - are the same reasons why many expats call Senegal home. Great for children and adults alike, living in Senegal can be a professionally and personally rewarding experience.
Useful link:
Government of Senegal
Browse by category
Browse by region
Formalities
Find out more on visas, passports and entry requirements to travel to Senegal.
Visas
All you need to know on work visas, work permits, working holiday visas and residence permits to live and work in Senegal.

Visas for Senegal
Senegal is relatively open to foreigners, but like most countries, its borders are protected by local authorities which will determine your ability ...
Work
Dive into the Senegal labour market, legal framework and tips on how to find a job in Senegal.

Working in Senegal
Senegal has long been a West African destination of choice for expats looking to live and work. ...

Starting a business in Senegal
With its growing economy, openness to foreign investment and political stability, Senegal is a ...

Jobs in Senegal
Discover professional opportunities in Senegal and boost your career.
Accommodation
Explore real estate or temporary rentals in Senegal. Find out more about renting or buying a house or a flat, real estate agents, leases and rental agreements.

Accommodation in Senegal
No matter what you are doing in Senegal or how long you are staying, finding the right ...

Buying a property in Senegal
Senegal has captured the hearts and minds of many travellers who visit its golden sandy beaches, ...

Find your ideal home in Senegal
Explore real estate listings in Senegal to buy or rent your next home.
Study
Universities, training courses, student visas, registration procedures: all you need to know about being an international student in Senegal.

Study in Senegal
Senegal welcomes international students with open arms. In recent years, the country has seen its higher education system become one of the most ...
Health care
Understanding the healthcare system in Senegal: public and private health system, health insurance...
Bank
Navigate the banking system in Senegal: how to choose a bank and open a bank account.
Tax
All you need to know about income tax, the tax system and filing your taxes as an expat in Senegal.

Taxes in Senegal
Benjamin Franklin reportedly said that ‘nothing is certain but death and taxes'. Well, that's certainly true in Senegal, where taxes are levied ...
Transport
From public transports to renting or buying a car, explore the best options to getting around in Senegal.

Transport in Senegal
Whether for work or leisure, knowing how to move around the country is essential for all expats. In Senegal, there is a wide range of public ...
Driving
Essential information on driving requirements in Senegal, driver's license exchange and international permits.

Driving in Senegal
Getting around Senegal's major cities is easy with taxis costing comparatively little and public transport even less. However, if you want to go ...
Removal
Moving to Senegal? Find useful information and tips to organize your move.

Relocating to Senegal
If you have decided to relocate to Senegal, take your time when choosing your removal company. ...

Travelling to Senegal with your pet
Whether moving long-term or short-term, you may want to take your pet with you to Senegal. But ...

Free quotes for your move
Get the best offers to easily organize your relocation to Senegal.
Communications
Internet and phone providers, plans, and everything you need to stay connected in Senegal.

Phones and Internet in Senegal
Telecommunications will be an essential part of your expatriation project in Senegal. You will definitely have access to telecommunication services ...
Leisure
Sports, leisure, culture and other activities expats can enjoy in their spare time in Senegal.

Things to do in Senegal
Settling abroad is not just about work, but also the unique opportunity to discover the country's charms during your evenings and weekends. Whether ...
Everyday life
Eager to discover what life in Senegal looks like? Here's a taste.
Key facts
Articles from the magazine
From Europe to Africa via Asia: Tales of a young Italian expat
Sara is a travel enthusiast and loves to discover new cultures. It has been a few months since she moved to Dakar with Djibril, her Senegalese boyfriend met in Shanghai. Sara is currently working as a volunteer in a non-profit organisation specialising in the reintegration of street children in the educational and vocational mainstream.
From Annecy to Mauritius: Meet Lionel, a digital expert
Originally from Annecy, Lionel discusses his evolution from an early career in sales to his current role as an expert in optimizing online processes for French SMEs. Currently based in Mauritius, he explains how he merges technological innovation with personal connections to transform business strategies and why he chose this tropical paradise as his new home.
Author Melanie Cheng discusses the impact of a bicultural upbringing on identity
Join us as we explore the journey of Melanie Cheng, a writer profoundly influenced by her upbringing in Hong Kong and Australia. Her unique bicultural background has deeply shaped her perspective and voice as a storyteller. Today, Melanie shares insights into how navigating two distinct cultures has enriched her writing, offering a nuanced exploration of identity, belonging, and the complex interplay of language and tradition in her work.
How different countries approach midday breaks
Lunch breaks are more than just lunch. They can also be a cultural phenomenon, especially when you consider how different a lunch experience in a different country can be. Today, we are looking into what lunch breaks are like across the world and which countries take them most seriously.
Understanding inheritance law and taxes
The cross-border inheritance of assets presents a complex legal and financial terrain for expats with families in other countries. No two nations share identical inheritance laws, and the specifics of bilateral tax treaties vary as well. So, how can you navigate this minefield without losing access to your inherited assets, complicating the donation of your assets to your children, or facing excessive taxes? Here are some tips.
Expat women: Why setting boundaries is important
Launched in October 2017, the #Metoo movement has empowered women to speak out. Globally, women from all walks of life, both well-known and private, have come forward to expose violence against women. Central to these discussions is the concept of consent, which at first glance appears straightforward—voluntarily agreeing to engage in an activity. Yet, its application, particularly regarding women, often faces scrutiny. Common misunderstandings persist, such as interpreting a "no" as a "yes," or considering a coerced "yes" as consent. This raises a critical question: How do you, as a woman, establish personal boundaries while living abroad?
How to manage international teams and overcome cultural barriers
Taking on a management role abroad is an intriguing career move, yet many underestimate the significance of understanding cultural nuances in the workplace for a successful international leadership role. What key aspects should you consider beyond the usual cultural stereotypes?
Why pursue a Master's degree overseas?
More people are opting to study abroad, regardless of their intentions to pursue an international career. Although the opportunity to study in another country is currently accessible, starting a career there can present challenges due to restrictions in several key destinations. Earning a master's degree abroad can be an effective strategy for achieving long-term integration into the local job market. Here is a detailed analysis.
