Senegal-Mauritania: A bilateral agreement to better manage migration

Two agreements signed to control migratory flows

On Monday June 2, 2025, the Foreign Affairs Ministers of Senegal and Mauritania signed two major migration agreements. One concerns residence conditions for nationals of each country, the other the fight against illegal immigration. These two agreements aim to harmonize population movements between the two neighboring states, which share a long history of migration.

A more accessible residence permit

One of the key measures is the introduction of a compulsory residence permit after three months on the territory of the other country. A special feature of this provision is that the first card can be issued for a period of one year, without the need for a work contract or proof of income. Proof of income will only be required at the time of renewal.

This new framework replaces a 1972 agreement, deemed obsolete in the face of current migration dynamics. It also comes after a series of mass expulsions of Senegalese nationals from Mauritania, which were described as “undignified” and “inhumane treatment” by Senegalese Minister Yassine Fall last February.

Facilitating free movement

The text signed commits both countries to removing obstacles to the free movement of Senegalese and Mauritanian citizens. This measure is particularly eagerly awaited by Senegalese fishermen who regularly work in Mauritanian waters, often without any regularized status. For them, it represents the hope of better recognition of their rights and their economic activities.

Minister Yassine Fall welcomed this step forward, seeing it as a strong signal of regional cooperation:

“These two agreements enable us to ensure that people are able to move around and contribute to development.”

A framework to combat illegal immigration

The second agreement aims to strengthen coordination between the two countries in the fight against illegal departures, particularly by sea. As Mauritania is a major transit route to Europe, cooperation with Senegal is considered essential to prevent human tragedies and organize safer, more controlled migration.

Conclusion

With these two migration agreements, Senegal and Mauritania begin a new chapter in their bilateral relationship, marked by greater dialogue, regulation and humanity in the management of population movements. By regularizing stays and working together to combat irregular migration, the two countries are affirming their desire to make mobility an opportunity for shared development, rather than a factor of tension.