Study visas
Gambian Student Residential Permit (Permit A)
The residence permit for international students enrolled at an approved Gambian institution, giving the right to live in the country while studying.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Under review — check current rules
Student permit fees and processing times are not confirmed from an official GID page and must be verified before publication.
Important information
Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Gambia government website before you apply.
- Official name
- Residential Permit A (student)
- Route type
- Study residence permit
- Condition
- Residence for study; no gainful employment
- Issuing authority
- Gambia Immigration Department
- Permit type
- Type A — residence only
- No gainful employment permitted; issued mainly to students and retirees.
- Renewal
- Annually
- Where to apply
- Gambia Immigration Department, Banjul, or a Gambian embassy
- Fee exemption
- Mauritania, Guinea, Mali and Senegal citizens exempt from resident-permit fees
- Cost
- Type A fee not separately published
- GID published Type B at D2,500 and Type C at D5,000 effective January 2024; the Type A amount was not stated — confirm with GID.
Who it is for
- Foreign nationals accepted at an approved Gambian university, college or training institution
Requirements
- Valid passport
- Letter of acceptance / admission from the approved institution
- Evidence of sufficient funds or scholarship to cover the stay
- Good health and character
How to apply
- Declare your purpose of entry and intended institution to the immigration officer at the port of entry
- Proceed to the designated immigration office to obtain the student residential permit
Frequently asked questions
No. Type A is for residence purposes only and does not permit any gainful employment. You would need to change your status to obtain the correct employment eligibility.
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.