Assessing Travel and Visa Obligations

Whether you can travel lawfully as a business visitor or require work authorization depends on the types of activities you will be conducting during your time in Gambia. In case you are unsure if your activities constitute business or work, please seek advice from your immigration counsel.

Traveling for Business

What sorts of activities can I pursue as a business visitor?

Business visitors traveling to Gambia may engage in the activities below. This list is not comprehensive and other activities may qualify as business.

• Attend business meetings
• Attend conferences
• Attend training workshops
• Develop professional business contacts
• Negotiate business contracts

If I qualify as a business visitor, do I need a visa for Gambia?

European Union, Canadian other select nationals do not require a visa to enter Gambia to conduct business activities and are eligible for a visa waiver. If your nationality is not on Gambia’s list of visa-waivered nationals, you are required to obtain an Entry Visa before travel from a Gambian Embassy or Consulate prior to travel. Some nationals who require an Entry Visa to enter Gambia to conduct business activities can obtain it upon arrival in Gambia.

Some restricted foreign nationals require Entry Clearance and will experience prolonged processing times.

Working in Gambia

What sorts of activities require a work permit?

In Gambia, the requirement for a work permit is generally determined by the duration and the nature of the work assignment. Most unremunerated activities can be conducted for up to 90 days per year on a visa waiver of Entry Visa.

If I am traveling to Gambia for work, what type of work permit do I need?

Whether you require a work permit depends on your qualifications, whether your employer has an entity in Gambia, and the nature of your work. The most common Gambian work authorization is the B Permit (work permit).

Are there any nationals who are exempt from work permit requirements?

There are no nationals who are exempt from the work permit requirement in Gambia.

What else should I know?

Inevitably, the legal and strategic considerations impacting visa selection or work authorization eligibility entail careful consideration of many factors. We recommend that you consult with your immigration counsel before taking any course of action.

Copyright © 2016 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. Government immigration agencies often change their policies and practices without notice; please consult an immigration professional for up-to-date information. This document does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. BAL maintains comprehensive immigration information and processing specifics for our clients.