The Gambia Immigration Bill, 2026 — Reform with Important Questions

Immigration Bill Proposes D3M Fine for Migrant Smuggling

By Kebba A.F. Touray The Minister of Interior, Abdoulie Sanyang, on Tuesday tabled the Gambia Immigration Bill 2026 before the National Assembly, proposing tougher penalties for migrant smuggling and other immigration-related offences. Among its key provisions, the bill introduces a minimum fine of D3 million and a prison term of not less than five years for persons convicted of aggravated migrant smuggling. Under Clause 113, a person commits th…

Proposed Immigration Law Gives Officers Final Say On Entry Decisions

By: Fatou Krubally A proposed new immigration law before the National Assembly states that possession of a valid visa or entry clearance will not automatically guarantee entry into The Gambia. The provision is contained in The Gambia Immigration Bill, 2026, which was read for a second time on Tuesday as lawmakers began consideration of reforms aimed at replacing the Immigration Act of 1965. Presenting the bill, the Minister of Interior, Abdoulie…

New immigration bill targets migrant smugglers with asset seizures

Under Part 12 of the proposed law, authorities would be empowered to investigate the assets and properties of arrested persons, seize suspected proceeds of migrant smuggling, and seek court orders for the forfeiture of properties linked to the crime. The legislation also provides for the freezing of accounts held in banks and other financial institutions, while passports and other assets connected to migrant smuggling activities could be confisc…