By Nelson Manneh
In a move aimed at regulating immigration and fostering reciprocal relations, the Gambia Immigration Department (GID) has officially announced a new fee structure for residential permits, now set at seven hundred and fifty Dalasi for nationals of Nigeria and Guinea.
This updated fee was disclosed by the Public Relations Officer of the GID, Siman Lowe.
The decision comes as part of a Ministerial directive issued on July 14, 2025, by the Ministry of the Interior, emphasising the principle of reciprocity in residential permit charges for citizens from the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Republic of Guinea-Conakry. “In line with the directive from the Ministry, the GID hereby informs the public that the fee for the issuance of a residence permit to Nigerian and Guinean nationals is fixed at seven hundred and fifty Dalasi, effective immediately,” stated PRO Lowe.
In anticipation of the implementation of this directive, an internal memorandum has been circulated to all Regional Immigration Commands, particularly for personnel involved in operating Gambia’s Biometric Identification System (GAMBIS). This measure is intended to ensure that the new fee structure is executed promptly and that all staff comply with the updated regulations.
The GID serves as the primary authority for overseeing the movement of individuals into, within, and out of the country while enforcing immigration laws and interpreting citizenship and nationality laws. The department’s responsibilities also include issuing residence and work permits, managing border security, and addressing issues related to migrant smuggling, vital elements of the country’s broader migration management strategy.
Operating under the authority of the 1997 Constitution and aligning with international migration policies, the GID collaborates with various government and international organisations to uphold its commitment to managing migration effectively. By establishing and enforcing these regulations, the GID aims to ensure a balanced approach to immigration that benefits both the nation and its neighbouring countries.
As Gambia continues to navigate its path towards an effective immigration policy, the latest adjustments in residential permit fees reflect a strategic effort to enhance bilateral relations and promote a cohesive framework for managing migration and residence in the country.
