Following the restrictions, the government has echoed that affected students involved those from outside the European Union and European Economic Area (EEA), thus affecting several Gambians who used the student route into the country over the years.
Consequently, The Point understands that the changes will not only “eliminate automatic work rights” for Gambian students in non-approved programs but will also “restrict the work permits for their partners”.
Defending the new rules, the authorities strongly argued that the changes are meant to “reform and prevent misuse of student visas for work and employment reasons" and further singled out certain South Asian students for breaches.
It is vital to add that the adjustment directed against the so-called “third country nationals” involved those who enrolled in non-State approved programs.
This correspondent is also aware that as a result of the current changes, non-EU and EEA students including Gambians are also required by law to meet “specific conditions” and required to apply for a separate work permit which will be “examined and scrutinized”.
Furthermore, their spouses and partners will not be entitled for a work permit entirely centred on their relationship thus will have an impact on prospective Gambian students.
Additionally, stricter screening by the Immigration Service will also be conducted “more regularly … and thorough assessments” will be required to ensure students are genuinely pursuing studies and not primarily seeking employment.
The Gambia and Denmark have excellent bilateral relationship for decades with Danish NGOs involved in civil society, education, tourism, and fundraising thus prompting many to suggest that Gambians may be exempted.
Meanwhile, Gambian students who have already applied for or received their various residence permits before the deadline will not be affected.
This correspondent has formally reached out to The Gambian Consul General in Copenhagen for further details regarding support for affected Gambian students. A follow-up telephone call was also made leaving a voice massage.
The new rules are effective on May 2, 2025.
