The Senegalese Citizenship Act is governed by the Constitution of Senegal.

Senegalese citizenship is usually acquired according to the principle of jus sanguinis, ie. by birth in Senegal or abroad to parents with Senegalese citizenship. It can also be granted to a person affiliated with the country or a permanent resident who has lived in the country for a period of time through naturalization.

By birth

Persons who acquire citizenship at birth include:

• Children born in Senegal and whose at least one parent is Senegalese;

• Children born outside the country, but whose at least one parent is Senegalese;

• Born in a country whose parents are unknown.

By naturalization

Naturalization can be granted to persons who have lived in the territory for a sufficient period of time to demonstrate that they understand the customs and traditions of Senegal and are integrated into society. The general provisions are that:

• candidates must be of good character and conduct;

• have good mental and physical health;

• can be economically self-sufficient;

• have no criminal record leading to imprisonment.

Applicants must normally have lived in the country for ten years.

In addition to foreigners who meet the above criteria, other persons who can be naturalized include:

• Children legally adopted by a Senegalese father;

• Minor children are automatically naturalized when their father acquires citizenship;

• Legal spouse of a citizen of Senegal after five years of marriage;

• Persons who have rendered important or exceptional services to the nation may be naturalized after a five-year period of residence.

Since 2013, Senegal has allowed citizens to hold dual citizenship unless another country prohibits multiple citizenship.