Somalia introduces eVisas from Sept 1

Somalia's Immigration and Citizenship Agency Director General Mustafa Sheikh Ali Dhuxulow during the launch of the eVisa system. [Courtesy, IcaSomalia]

All travellers entering Somalia starting September 1, 2025, will have to apply for an eVisa.

This comes after the Immigration and Citizenship Agency officially launched the eVisa/ETAS service, which will be the new system for entering Somalia.

According to the agency, travellers will have to electronically apply for the visa through its website before travelling.

The agency further said the new system aims to eliminate paperwork and long waits, offering a fast, transparent and reliable process that places Somalia among countries using modern e-visa systems.

The Director General of the agency Mr Mustafa Sheikh Ali Dhuxulow, said the move is historic, showing Somalia's alignment with global modern systems.

Mr Dhuxulow said the eVisa system will play a significant role in enhancing national security, protecting data, boosting the economy, and simplifying travel procedures.

"Today, Somalia joins the world in adopting digital visa solutions. The E-VISA will protect national security, safeguard data, strengthen the economy, and simplify travel," he said, adding, "This is a turning point in modernising border management."

He said holders of multiple-entry visas, residents with permits, citizens from countries with bilateral free-movement agreements, diplomats and UNLP passport holders will be exempted from the eVisa requirement.

His sentiments were emphasised by Isxaaq Hassan Taakow, Director of the Department of Foreigners and Entry Permits, who said the modern online visa application system has been in preparation for a long time.

Somalia's Immigration and Citizenship Agency Director General Mustafa Sheikh Ali Dhuxulow reads through the guidelines of the new eVisa system as the Minister for Internal Security, Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail Fartaag lloks on. [Courtesy, IcaSomalia]

"It will make it easier for foreigners to apply for visas from anywhere in the world and receive them in a short time," he said.

He also indicated that a special team has been trained to ensure efficient and transparent visa processing.

The Minister for Internal Security, Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail Fartaag, in his remarks, said his ministry will ensure full compliance with the new requirements.

Mr Fartaag said the system is crucial for improving national security, monitoring incoming travellers, and increasing financial transparency, as visa fees will go directly to the Ministry of Finance accounts.

Somalia, through the agency in guidelines announced in April this year said all travellers entering the country, including those of Somali origin travelling with foreign passports, would have to apply for a visa.

This the agency then said would apply to travellers arriving at key airports such as Hargeisa, Barbera, Bosaso, Garowe, Galcaio, Mogadishu and Kismayo.