Senegal considers extending validity of 2016 biometric ID cards

Senegalese authorities are pursuing administrative and legislative measures to extend the validity of ECOWAS biometric national identity cards issued in 2016. The initiative aims to address concerns regarding the upcoming expiration of these documents.

Ibrahima Dieng, the Director of File Automation (DAF) and Chief Police Commissioner, stated that the process involves both administrative and operational steps. Legislative work has already begun at the National Assembly to modify the regulatory framework, specifically targeting the 2026 decree to allow for the extension.

The finalization of this measure depends on several institutional stages: the text must be adopted by deputies, promulgated by the Head of State, and followed by an official decree. While the extension is being processed, the specific list of affected cards and the exact duration of the extension have not yet been finalized. Citizens still retain the option to renew their documents in the meantime.