Get Your Somalia Visa Online
Fast, secure visa processing for tourism, business, and exploration of Somalia's ancient heritage
TrustpilotHow to Get Your Somalia Visa
Simple 4-step process — most applications approved within 5-10 business days
1
Complete the online application
Fill out our streamlined application form with your personal details, travel plans, and purpose of visit. Our intelligent validation system guides you through each section, checking for common errors and ensuring your application meets Somalia's immigration requirements.
2
Upload your documents
Submit your passport scan (bio page clearly visible), a recent passport-sized photograph, invitation letter if required, and proof of accommodation. Our visa specialists review every document against Somali Immigration standards before submission, significantly reducing the risk of rejection or delays.
3
We submit to Somalia Immigration
Your verified application is transmitted to Somalia's immigration authorities. We monitor processing status and proactively communicate any updates, requests for additional documentation, or status changes via email and SMS.
4
Receive your visa approval
Your approved Somalia visa notification arrives by email. Print the approval letter and present it at Somali immigration along with your passport. Soo dhawoow — welcome to one of Africa's most intriguing destinations!
Somalia Visa Requirements & Entry Information
Tourist Visa
Up to 30 days
Single entry for tourism and cultural exploration
Business Visa
Up to 90 days
For commercial activities and business meetings
Visa on Arrival
Up to 30 days
Available at major airports for select nationalities
Transit Visa
Up to 72 hours
For travelers connecting through Somalia
Essential Requirements
- Passport valid 6+ months with 2 blank pages
- Passport photo 35x45mm, white background
- Invitation letter from sponsor in Somalia
- Hotel booking or host accommodation details
- Return flight or onward travel itinerary
- Proof of sufficient funds for your stay
Tourist & Entry Visas
Somalia is gradually reopening to tourism, offering adventurous travelers the chance to explore one of Africa's most untouched destinations. The country's visa system continues to develop as stability improves in major cities and regions.
Tourist Visa
The Somalia tourist visa allows single entry with stays up to 30 days — suitable for travelers wishing to explore the country's pristine coastline, ancient port cities, and remarkable archaeological sites like the Laas Geel cave paintings. Tourism is primarily focused on Somaliland (the autonomous northern region) and increasingly Puntland and Mogadishu. Most tourist activities require coordination with local guides and sponsors. The visa can be extended at immigration offices in Mogadishu or Hargeisa for travelers wishing to stay longer.
Visa on Arrival
Somalia offers visa on arrival at Aden Adde International Airport (Mogadishu) and Egal International Airport (Hargeisa) for citizens of certain countries. This convenient option allows stays up to 30 days. Travelers should confirm current availability for their nationality before travel, as requirements can change. Having pre-arranged sponsorship significantly smooths the arrival process.
Business & Special Visas
Business Visa
The Somalia business visa caters to professionals conducting commercial activities within the country. This includes attending business meetings, exploring investment opportunities in Somalia's growing economy, establishing trade contacts, conducting market research, and participating in development projects. Business visas allow stays up to 90 days and require sponsorship from a Somali company or organization. Required documentation includes an invitation letter from your Somali business contact, your company's registration documents, and a detailed business itinerary.
NGO & Humanitarian Visas
Somalia hosts numerous international organizations involved in humanitarian and development work. Special visa arrangements exist for NGO workers, UN personnel, and humanitarian staff. These typically require organizational sponsorship and coordination with relevant ministries. Processing may involve additional security clearances and documentation.
Media & Journalist Visas
Journalists and media professionals require specific accreditation and visa arrangements. Applications should be coordinated well in advance through the Ministry of Information or relevant authorities.
Entry Requirements
Essential Requirements
All Somalia visa applicants must meet these fundamental requirements:
• Passport validity: Minimum 6 months beyond your intended arrival date with at least two blank pages for entry stamps
• Invitation letter: Most visa categories require an invitation or sponsorship letter from a Somali contact, company, or organization
• Photograph: Recent passport-sized photo (35x45mm) with white background, taken within the last 6 months
• Accommodation proof: Hotel booking confirmation or letter from your host detailing where you will stay
• Travel itinerary: Flight bookings showing entry and exit from Somalia
• Sufficient funds: Evidence of financial means to support your stay
Health Requirements
Yellow fever vaccination is required if arriving from an endemic country. Travelers should ensure routine vaccinations are current and consider hepatitis A/B, typhoid, and other travel vaccinations. Comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended.
Entry Points & Processing
Entry Points & Immigration
Somalia visas are valid at the following entry points:
• Airports: Aden Adde International Airport (MGQ) in Mogadishu, Egal International Airport (HGA) in Hargeisa, Bossaso Airport in Puntland, and Kismayo Airport
• Land borders: Wajale (Ethiopia-Somaliland border), Tog Wajaale, and Loyada (Djibouti border)
• Seaports: Port of Mogadishu, Port of Berbera, Port of Bossaso
Processing Times & Application Timing
Visa processing typically takes 5-10 business days, though times can vary based on application completeness and current processing volumes. We recommend applying at least 3-4 weeks before your intended travel date to allow buffer time for any additional documentation requests. Visa on arrival is available but pre-arranging your visa provides greater certainty and smoother arrival experience.
Regional Considerations
Somaliland operates semi-independently with its own visa system. Travelers to Hargeisa and Somaliland may apply directly through Somaliland immigration. Coordination between regions continues to improve but travelers should clarify visa validity for their specific destinations.
Why Choose DoVisa?
See the difference between applying yourself vs using our expert service
| Feature | Applying Yourself |  With DoVisa |
|---|---|---|
| Application reviewExpert review before submission | ✗No expert check | ✓100% reviewed by experts |
| Document validationCheck documents meet requirements | ✗Risk of rejection | ✓Pre-checked for errors |
| Customer supportHelp when you have questions | ✗Government offices only | ✓24/7 dedicated support |
| Form guidanceAssistance filling out forms | ✗Complex forms alone | ✓Step-by-step guidance |
| Status trackingKnow where your application is | ✗Manual checking | ✓Real-time updates |
| Refund if deniedProtection if visa is rejected | ✗No refund possible | ✓Money-back guarantee |
1,000+Visas processed
24/7Expert support
4.6Customer rating
96%Approval rate
"DoVisa made my Somalia visa process straightforward. Their team helped me understand all the requirements and my visa was approved within a week. Excellent service!"
"Visited Somaliland to see the Laas Geel cave paintings. DoVisa handled my visa perfectly and their guidance on travel preparations was invaluable. Highly recommend!"
"Business visa for Mogadishu processed smoothly. The invitation letter guidance was particularly helpful. Good communication throughout the process."
"As an NGO worker, I needed specific documentation for my Somalia visa. DoVisa understood the requirements and helped me compile everything correctly. Very professional!"
"Exploring Berbera and the Somaliland coast was amazing. The visa process with DoVisa was the easy part of planning this unique adventure. Great support team!"
"Returning to visit family in Mogadishu. DoVisa made the visa application simple and stress-free. My documents were processed quickly with no issues at immigration."
"Documentary filmmaker visiting Somalia. DoVisa helped navigate the media visa requirements and connected me with the right contacts. Invaluable assistance!"
"First time traveling to the Horn of Africa. DoVisa's team was patient with all my questions and provided excellent advice on preparing for my trip to Hargeisa."
"Business investor exploring opportunities in Somalia. DoVisa understood my needs and processed my business visa efficiently. Professional service throughout."
"Humanitarian work brought me to Somalia. The visa process was more complex than other countries but DoVisa guided me through every step. Grateful for their expertise!"
Somalia Visa FAQs
What types of visas are available for Somalia?
Somalia offers several visa categories to accommodate different travel purposes. Tourist visa allows stays up to 30 days for leisure travel, cultural exploration, and visiting archaeological sites. Business visa permits stays up to 90 days for commercial activities, meetings, and investment exploration. Transit visa allows up to 72 hours for travelers passing through Somalia. NGO/Humanitarian visas are available for aid workers and development professionals. Media visas are required for journalists and film crews. Most visas require sponsorship or an invitation letter from a contact within Somalia. Somaliland (the northern autonomous region) has its own visa system that operates semi-independently.
What is the Somalia visa on arrival and who qualifies?
Somalia offers visa on arrival at major airports including Aden Adde International Airport (Mogadishu) and Egal International Airport (Hargeisa). This option is available to citizens of select countries and allows stays up to 30 days. Requirements: Valid passport with 6+ months validity, passport photo, proof of accommodation, return ticket, and visa fee in US dollars. Important considerations: Eligibility varies by nationality and requirements can change — confirm current availability before travel. Having pre-arranged sponsorship and documentation significantly smooths the arrival process. For greater certainty, we recommend obtaining your visa in advance rather than relying on visa on arrival.
Do I need a sponsor or invitation letter for a Somalia visa?
Most Somalia visa categories require sponsorship or an invitation letter from within the country. Tourist visas: An invitation from a Somali contact, tour operator, or hotel is typically required. Business visas: Require an invitation letter from a Somali company or organization on official letterhead, stating the purpose and duration of your visit. NGO visas: Require organizational sponsorship and coordination with relevant ministries. What the letter should include: Sponsor's full name and contact details, relationship to applicant, purpose of visit, intended dates of stay, and confirmation of accommodation arrangements. DoVisa can assist with understanding sponsorship requirements and help you prepare appropriate documentation.
How long does Somalia visa processing take?
Somalia visa processing typically takes 5-10 business days, though times can vary based on several factors. Factors affecting processing: Application completeness, type of visa requested, current processing volumes, and any required security clearances. Business and NGO visas may take longer due to additional verification requirements. Recommendations: Apply at least 3-4 weeks before your intended travel date to allow buffer time for any additional documentation requests or unforeseen delays. DoVisa's pre-submission review helps ensure applications are complete, reducing the risk of processing delays.
What documents do I need for a Somalia visa application?
Essential documents for all applications: Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond arrival with minimum two blank pages; recent passport-sized photograph (35x45mm, white background); completed application form with accurate travel details. Additional requirements by visa type: Tourist visa: Invitation letter from sponsor, proof of accommodation, round-trip flight itinerary, travel insurance. Business visa: Invitation letter from Somali company, employer support letter, company registration documents, detailed business itinerary. NGO visa: Organizational sponsorship letter, project documentation, coordination with relevant ministries. All applicants: May be asked for proof of sufficient funds, yellow fever certificate if arriving from endemic region, and comprehensive travel insurance documentation.
Is Somalia safe for tourists to visit?
Somalia's security situation varies significantly by region. Somaliland (northern autonomous region including Hargeisa, Berbera, and Laas Geel) has been relatively stable and receives most tourist visitors. Puntland has improved security in urban areas. South-central Somalia including Mogadishu has seen significant improvements but still requires heightened security awareness and typically armed escorts. Practical advice: Travel with registered tour operators who provide security; follow local advice strictly; register with your embassy; arrange comprehensive travel insurance with evacuation coverage; maintain low profile; avoid crowds and demonstrations. Recommended: Most governments advise against all but essential travel to parts of Somalia — check current travel advisories for your nationality before planning.
Can I extend my Somalia visa once I arrive?
Yes, Somalia visas can be extended through local immigration offices. Where to apply: Immigration Department in Mogadishu for federal Somalia, or Immigration Office in Hargeisa for Somaliland. Requirements: Valid passport, current visa, passport photographs, extension fee, proof of continued accommodation, and justification for extension. Process: Applications are typically processed within several business days. Important: Apply before your current visa expires — overstaying is a serious offense and can result in fines or detention. Your sponsor may need to support your extension request with additional documentation.
What is the difference between Somalia and Somaliland visas?
Somaliland is a self-declared autonomous region in northern Somalia that operates its own visa system independently. Somaliland visas: Can be obtained through Somaliland representation offices abroad, on arrival at Hargeisa airport, or online. These visas are valid only within Somaliland territory. Somalia (Federal) visas: Issued through Somali embassies and immigration authorities, valid for Mogadishu and federal Somalia territories. Important considerations: A Somaliland visa may not be valid for entry into federal Somalia and vice versa. If planning to visit both regions, confirm visa requirements for each. Travel between regions may require additional documentation or separate visas depending on your itinerary.
What health precautions should I take for Somalia?
Required vaccinations: Yellow fever certificate mandatory if arriving from an endemic country. Recommended vaccinations: Hepatitis A and B, typhoid, tetanus, polio, meningitis, and rabies for extended stays or rural travel. Consult a travel health clinic 4-6 weeks before departure. Malaria: Present throughout Somalia — take antimalarial prophylaxis, use insect repellent, and sleep under mosquito nets. General health advice: Drink only bottled or purified water; avoid ice and raw foods; carry basic medical supplies; ensure comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage. Healthcare: Medical facilities are limited — serious medical conditions may require evacuation to neighboring countries.
Can I work in Somalia with a tourist visa?
No, Somalia tourist visas do not permit employment. Tourist visas are strictly for leisure activities, sightseeing, visiting family, and cultural exploration. Working legally in Somalia requires appropriate work authorization, typically arranged through your employer with relevant government ministries. NGO and humanitarian work requires specific organizational visas and coordination with relevant authorities. Business visas allow commercial meetings and exploration of opportunities but not actual employment. Penalties: Working illegally risks fines, detention, and deportation. If you intend to work in Somalia, ensure you have proper authorization before arriving.
What currency should I bring to Somalia?
Somalia's official currency is the Somali Shilling (SOS), but US Dollars are widely used and often preferred, especially in tourism and business contexts. Cash recommendations: Bring clean, undamaged US Dollar bills (ideally $50 and $100 notes for major expenses, smaller denominations for daily purchases). Some establishments accept Euros. Card acceptance: Very limited — expect to operate primarily in cash. Some larger hotels in Mogadishu may accept cards but don't rely on this. ATMs: Limited availability and often unreliable. Bring sufficient cash for your entire stay. Mobile money: Widely used locally (Zaad, EVC Plus) but requires local phone number and setup. Exchange: Money changers available in cities — compare rates and count carefully.
What is the best time to visit Somalia?
Somalia has a tropical climate with distinct dry and wet seasons. Best time (December-March): The main dry season offers pleasant weather with temperatures around 25-30C, ideal for exploring coastal areas, Laas Geel, and city tours. Clear skies and calm seas make this optimal for beach activities along the Indian Ocean coast. Second dry season (June-September): Cooler temperatures, particularly in northern regions. Good for overland travel and archaeological site visits. Wet seasons (April-May, October-November): The Gu and Deyr rains can make some roads difficult and limit travel options, though rain usually falls in short bursts. Coastal areas: Pleasant year-round but best December-March when humidity is lower.
What are the main attractions in Somalia?
Despite limited tourism infrastructure, Somalia offers unique attractions. Laas Geel: Spectacular 5,000-year-old cave paintings near Hargeisa, among Africa's best-preserved rock art. Mogadishu: Historic port city with ancient mosques, the Cathedral of Mogadishu, Lido Beach, and vibrant markets. Berbera: Ottoman-era port town with beautiful beaches and historic architecture. Coastline: Somalia has Africa's longest coastline (3,333 km) with pristine, untouched beaches. Zeila: Ancient port city with archaeological ruins near the Djibouti border. Hargeisa: Somaliland's capital with the War Memorial, cultural centers, and gateway to Laas Geel. Wildlife: Limited but includes endemic species in rural areas. Most travel requires guides and advance planning.
Do children need their own Somalia visa?
Yes, every traveler including children requires their own Somalia visa. There are no provisions for children traveling on parents' documents. Requirements for children: Valid passport in child's own name with 6+ months validity; passport-sized photograph meeting same specifications as adults; completed application with child's details. Additional documentation: If traveling with only one parent, a consent letter from the non-traveling parent may be required. Unaccompanied minors need additional documentation and guardian arrangements. Application process: Parents typically apply for children's visas simultaneously with their own. Fees: Children pay the same visa fees as adults.
What happens if my Somalia visa application is rejected?
Somalia visa rejections can occur for various reasons. Common rejection reasons: Incomplete documentation, missing or inadequate sponsor/invitation letter, passport validity issues, previous immigration violations, security concerns, or insufficient justification for visit. If rejected: You'll receive notification of the unsuccessful application. You may reapply with improved documentation addressing the issues. Prevention: Ensure all documents are complete and clear; secure a proper invitation letter; verify passport validity; provide comprehensive travel plans. DoVisa assistance: Our pre-submission review helps identify and address potential issues before submission, reducing rejection risk. If rejection results from our processing error, we provide reapplication assistance.
Can I travel from Somalia to neighboring countries?
Yes, Somalia shares borders with Ethiopia, Djibouti, and Kenya. Ethiopia: Land border crossings include Wajale/Tog Wajaale from Somaliland. Ethiopia requires its own visa (eVisa available for many nationalities). Djibouti: Border crossing at Loyada. Djibouti offers visa on arrival for many nationalities. Kenya: Border regions have security concerns — check current advisories. Kenya requires separate eVisa for most nationalities. Important: Your Somalia visa is only valid for Somalia — each neighboring country requires its own entry documentation. Confirm visa requirements for each destination before traveling. Border crossings may have limited operating hours and facilities.
Still have questions?
Our team is here to help 24/7Ready to Discover Somalia?
Experience the Horn of Africa's hidden treasures with expert visa support
Apply NowOr apply via our mobile app
