In order to reside in the Gambia (for example for work), non-Gambians/expatriates need a work/residence permit for themselves and a foreigner's identity card for themselves and each of their dependents aged 18. A foreigner's residence/work permit and identity card must be renewed annually.

You should carry both your Gambian work/residence permit and your foreigner's identity card in case you are asked to show them by immigration or the police.

There are 3 categories of residence permits and each of them has a certain fee.

Type A: Issued for residence only and issued to retired foreign nationals and international students.

Type B: This category is used for employment and is issued to ECOWAS nationals and other foreign nationals working in The Gambia in skilled jobs and companies.

Type C: This residence permit is issued to skilled workers and small traders.

All types of Gambian permits are valid until the end of the calendar year (December 31).

Exceptions:

Citizens arriving from Mauritania, the Republic of Guinea, Mali or Senegal are exempt from paying for a residence permit.

Identity card of a foreigner:

All persons residing in The Gambia must have and carry an identity card at all times. A foreigner's card is valid for 1 full year and its function is to identify foreign nationals residing in the country. To obtain a foreigner's identity card, you must first present your passport and your country's identity card. Otherwise, a sworn affidavit or a consular card confirming citizenship must be obtained.

There are 2 types:

• Citizens of ECOWAS countries:

The cost of the card and a small fee for filling out the questionnaire.

• Citizens of non-ECOWAS countries:

The cost of the card and a small fee for filling out the questionnaire.

National identity cards:

By law, all Gambians over the age of 18 must carry identification. A birth certificate, a voter's card, or a local chief's certificate must be presented before an identity card can be issued. Fines and/or imprisonment may be imposed for failure to provide a certificate upon request.

• A-permit without Ecowas D1850 + D100 (cost of the registration form)
• B-permit without Ecowas D3100 + D100 (cost of the registration form)
• B-permit Ecowas D1850 + D100 (cost of the registration form)

For non-Ecowas applicants, a D1500 + D100 Foreigner's Identification Card is required

Take your passport to the immigration office.

Most police stations have such an office or are close to it.

You will need 2 passport-type photos to obtain a permit.

You will also need 2 passport-type photos for ID.

Remember that the permit must be renewed every year in January, just like all other permits, licenses, and taxes such as car tax etc., as well as driving licences.