Overview
Senegalese nationals and other residents of Senegal planning to visit, study, or work in the United States apply for visas at the U.S. Embassy in Dakar. Senegal is not a member of the Visa Waiver Program, so all Senegalese nationals require a visa to enter the United States. The embassy serves Senegal and also covers Guinea-Bissau for both visa and citizen services.
Visa Services
The embassy processes the full range of nonimmigrant and immigrant visa categories for applicants from Senegal and Guinea-Bissau. Common categories include B-1/B-2 tourist and business visas, F-1 student visas, J-1 exchange visas, and all immigrant visa types including family reunification. The Diversity Visa (DV) lottery also generates a notable volume of applicants. Appointments are required and must be booked through the USTravelDocs portal.
Consular Services
The American Citizen Services (ACS) unit assists U.S. citizens in Senegal and Guinea-Bissau with passport renewals, Consular Reports of Birth Abroad, notarial services, and emergency assistance. U.S. citizens living or travelling in the region should register with the STEP program for travel alerts and emergency communications.
Trade & Export Support
The U.S. Commercial Service promotes American exports to Senegal across key sectors including energy, infrastructure, agriculture, and technology. It provides market intelligence and matchmaking services for U.S. companies looking to enter or expand in the Francophone West African market.
Investment Opportunities
Senegal's expanding economy — anchored by new offshore oil and gas production, tourism, and a growing services sector — offers opportunities for U.S. investors. The SelectUSA program also helps Senegalese businesses explore investment opportunities in the United States.
Business Support
The embassy's Economic Section tracks Senegalese economic developments and supports U.S. businesses operating in the country. It provides guidance on the investment climate, regulatory environment, and market entry, with particular attention to Senegal's growing oil and gas sector.
Cultural & Educational Programs
The Public Affairs section runs educational and cultural exchange programs including the Fulbright Program and the Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders (YALI). English language programmes and American Spaces support broader public engagement.
Appointment Information
All visa interviews and routine ACS appointments must be scheduled online via ustraveldocs.com. Walk-in services are not available. The embassy is located at Route des Almadies, Dakar. Contact: +221 33 879 4000 or sn.usembassy.gov.
Special Notes
The embassy is housed in a modern compound on the Almadies Peninsula. Visitors must pass security screening and electronic devices are not permitted inside. Coverage for Guinea-Bissau applicants and U.S. citizens is handled through this mission.