Somalia is finally changing the way foreign nationals enter the country. Starting September 1, 2025, all visitors to Somalia will need to apply for an electronic visa before travelling. The Immigration and Citizenship Agency (ICA) says the move marks a major shift toward a modern, digital entry process.
How the New e-Visa System Works
The new e-Visa system processes applications through the official portal. Travellers can complete the process entirely online without having to visit an embassy or consulate. Once approved, the online system issues the visa electronically and links it to the traveller’s passport.
Officials argue the new system will speed up processing times and make entry procedures more transparent. Dedicated staff already manage applications and ensure efficient approvals after training from the ICA.
Who Needs the e-Visa
The Immigration and Citizenship Agency (ICA) made it clear that most foreigners will now need to apply online before boarding a plane to Somalia. The only exceptions are:
- Diplomats and UNLP passport holders
- Foreign residents with valid permits
- Holders of multiple-entry visas
- Citizens of countries with bilateral free-movement agreements
The new e-visa system now requires everyone else, including tourists, business travellers, and short-term visitors, to apply online.
How to Apply for a Somalia e-Visa
Applying for Somalia’s new e-Visa is straightforward. Everything happens online through the official portal. No embassy visits are needed.
Steps to apply:
- Go to the official e-Visa website.
- Create an account and fill in your personal details.
- Upload the required documents (passport copy, photo, and travel details).
- Pay the visa fee securely online.
- Wait for approval, which will be sent by email.
Keep a printed or digital copy of your e-Visa when you travel.
What Officials Said
Immigration officials said the e-Visa has been in the works for years and will make applications easier from anywhere in the world. ICA Director General Mustafa Duhulow called it a historic step that improves security, data protection, and transparency. All visa fees will now be paid online and go directly to the Ministry of Finance, the Minister of Internal Security said.
What This Means for Travellers
For anyone planning a visit after September 2025, this update changes the first step of the journey. Forget embassy appointments or relying on contacts to handle paperwork, everything now runs through the government’s e-Visa website.
Final Thoughts
Starting September 2025, traveling to Somalia will be simpler but also more structured. For most visitors, the e-Visa is now the key step to entry, easy to apply for, but mandatory to have in hand.
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