Somalia’s network of embassies and consulates plays a vital role in supporting travelers, diaspora communities, and diplomatic relations. Whether you need consular assistance, passport services, or information about traveling to Somalia, understanding how Somali embassies operate is essential.
Since September 2025, Somalia has transitioned to a fully electronic visa system, which has significantly changed the role of embassies in the visa process. This guide covers everything you need to know about Somali embassies worldwide, the services they provide, and how to navigate consular matters effectively.
What Services Do Somali Embassies Provide?
Somali embassies and consulates serve as the primary diplomatic missions of the Federal Republic of Somalia in foreign countries. Their core services include:
- Passport issuance and renewal for Somali citizens abroad
- Power of Attorney (Wakaalad) processing for legal matters in Somalia
- Diaspora support including community engagement and civic assistance
- Diplomatic relations between Somalia and the host country
- Trade and investment facilitation for business travelers
- Emergency assistance for Somali nationals in distress abroad
- Document authentication and notarization services
It is important to note that Somali embassies no longer issue visas. Since the launch of the mandatory Electronic Travel Authorization System (eTAS) on September 1, 2025, all visa applications must be submitted online through the official portal at etas.gov.so. The embassy’s role in the visa process is now limited to providing guidance and directing applicants to the online system.
Somali Embassies Around the World
Somalia maintains diplomatic missions across Africa, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and the Americas. Below is an overview of key Somali embassies organized by region.
Africa
| Country | City | Website |
|---|---|---|
| Djibouti | Djibouti City | Contact via MFA Somalia |
| Ethiopia | Addis Ababa | Contact via MFA Somalia |
| Kenya | Nairobi | nairobiembassy.gov.so |
| Uganda | Kampala | kampalaembassy.gov.so |
| Nigeria | Abuja | somaliembassyng.so |
| South Africa | Pretoria | Contact via MFA Somalia |
| Egypt | Cairo | somaliembassyegypt.com |
| Eritrea | Asmara | Contact via MFA Somalia |
| Sudan | Khartoum | Contact via MFA Somalia |
| Zambia | Lusaka | lusakaembassy.gov.so |
Europe
| Country | City | Website |
|---|---|---|
| United Kingdom | London | Contact via MFA Somalia |
| Belgium | Brussels | Contact via MFA Somalia |
| France | Paris | Contact via MFA Somalia |
| Germany | Berlin | Contact via MFA Somalia |
| Sweden | Stockholm | somaliembassy.se |
| Russia | Moscow | Contact via MFA Somalia |
| Turkey | Ankara | Contact via MFA Somalia |
Asia & Middle East
| Country | City | Website |
|---|---|---|
| India | New Delhi | delhiembassy.so |
| China | Beijing | Contact via MFA Somalia |
| Malaysia | Kuala Lumpur | somaliembassy.com.my |
| Iran | Tehran | Contact via MFA Somalia |
| Iraq | Baghdad | Contact via MFA Somalia |
| Kuwait | Kuwait City | Contact via MFA Somalia |
| Oman | Muscat | Contact via MFA Somalia |
| Saudi Arabia | Riyadh | Contact via MFA Somalia |
| UAE | Abu Dhabi | Contact via MFA Somalia |
| Qatar | Doha | Contact via MFA Somalia |
| Egypt | Cairo | Contact via MFA Somalia |
Americas
| Country | City | Website |
|---|---|---|
| United States | Washington, D.C. | usa.mfa.gov.so |
| Canada | Ottawa | Non-resident ambassador (via Washington embassy) |
The Embassy of Somalia in Washington, D.C. serves as the primary diplomatic mission for North America. Ambassador Dahir Hassan Abdi serves as both the Ambassador to the United States and the non-resident Ambassador to Canada.
Can I Get a Visa at a Somali Embassy?
No. Somali embassies worldwide no longer process or issue visas. Since September 1, 2025, the Federal Government of Somalia has made the Electronic Travel Authorization System (eTAS) the sole method for obtaining a travel visa.
Here is what you need to know:
- All foreign travelers must apply for an eVisa online before departure
- The official portal is etas.gov.so
- Standard processing takes 3 to 5 business days
- The government fee is $67 USD
- The visa is valid for a single entry with a 30-day stay
- Your passport must have at least 6 months validity from your date of entry
Embassy staff can answer general questions about the eTAS process, but they cannot submit applications on your behalf or expedite processing. The Somalia Embassy in Washington, D.C. encourages all travelers to apply well in advance and to verify entry requirements through the Immigration and Citizenship Agency‘s official channels.
Countries That Do Not Need a Visa
Citizens of the following countries can visit Somalia without a visa:
- Djibouti – Visa-free entry
- Kenya – Up to 90 days
- Uganda – Up to 90 days
- Ethiopia – Up to 90 days
- Eritrea – Up to 90 days
For all other nationalities, the eTAS eVisa is required before travel.
How to Apply for a Somalia Visa Online
Since embassies no longer handle visa applications, here is the step-by-step process for obtaining your Somalia eVisa:
- Visit the official portal at etas.gov.so
- Create an account with your email address
- Complete the application form with personal and travel details
- Upload required documents:
- Valid passport (6+ months validity)
- Passport-size photo or selfie
- Travel itinerary
- Accommodation booking confirmation
- Return flight booking or onward travel proof
- Letter of invitation (for business or official visits)
- Pay the fee of $67 USD via credit or debit card
- Wait for approval – typically 3 to 5 business days
- Download your approved eVisa and present it upon arrival
The eVisa is valid for entry through Mogadishu International Airport and other federal Somalia entry points. It is not valid for entry into Somaliland, which operates a separate immigration system.
Important: Somaliland Has a Different System
If you are traveling to Hargeisa or other parts of Somaliland, be aware that:
- The federal Somalia eTAS is not valid for entry into Somaliland
- You can obtain a visa on arrival at Hargeisa International Airport
- The Somaliland visa is single-entry, valid for 30 days, and payable in cash (USD)
- You may need a letter of invitation to enter Somaliland
- Airlines may still ask to see your eTAS for boarding, even if it will not be accepted at Hargeisa immigration
Consular Services Beyond Visas
While visas are now handled entirely online, Somali embassies continue to provide a range of consular services that are essential for Somali citizens and diaspora communities.
Passport Services
Somali embassies process passport applications and renewals for citizens living abroad. The Embassy in Washington, D.C. offers passport and NIRA ID application services through their consular section. Processing times and requirements vary by embassy, so contact your nearest mission for current details.
Power of Attorney (Wakaalad)
The Embassy of Somalia in Washington, D.C. has modernized its Power of Attorney (Wakaalad) process to a secure, online, video-based system. This allows Somali diaspora members to execute legal documents remotely without visiting the embassy in person. The process is designed for increased efficiency and accessibility.
Emergency Assistance
Somali embassies provide emergency consular assistance to nationals abroad, including:
- Assistance during natural disasters or political emergencies
- Help with lost or stolen passports
- Legal referrals and detention visits
- Repatriation assistance in extreme circumstances
Contacting Somali Embassies
For the most current contact information, visit the official website of the embassy nearest to you. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Somalia (mfa.gov.so) maintains an official directory of all diplomatic missions.
Key Embassy Websites:
- United States: usa.mfa.gov.so – Washington, D.C.
- Sweden: somaliembassy.se – Stockholm
- India: delhiembassy.so – New Delhi
- Kenya: nairobiembassy.gov.so – Nairobi
- Nigeria: somaliembassyng.so – Abuja
- Uganda: kampalaembassy.gov.so – Kampala
- Malaysia: somaliembassy.com.my – Kuala Lumpur
- Egypt: somaliembassyegypt.com – Cairo
- Zambia: lusakaembassy.gov.so – Lusaka
When contacting an embassy, be prepared to provide your full name, nationality, passport number, and a clear description of your request or situation.
Important Safety Notice: eTAS Data Breach
Travelers should be aware of a reported data breach affecting Somalia’s eVisa system. According to advisories from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and the US Embassy in Somalia:
- Leaked data includes visa applicants’ names, photos, dates and places of birth, email addresses, marital status, and home addresses
- The data breach has been described as ongoing
- Both the UK and US governments have issued formal alerts to their citizens
Before submitting your eTAS application, carefully consider the risks of entering personal data into the system. Monitor updates from your own government’s travel advisory service for the latest information on this security concern.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Somalia visa cost?
The Somalia eTAS eVisa costs $67 USD as the government fee. With service charges and processing fees, the total cost typically ranges from $94 to $150 USD depending on the payment method and any third-party service you use.
How to apply for a Somalia visa?
Apply online through the official eTAS portal at etas.gov.so. Create an account, fill out the application form, upload your documents (passport, photo, travel itinerary, accommodation proof), pay the fee, and wait 3 to 5 business days for approval.
How long does a Somali eVisa take?
Standard processing for the Somalia eTAS eVisa takes 3 to 5 business days. Apply well in advance of your travel date to allow for any delays or additional document requests.
Does a US citizen need a visa for Somalia?
Yes. US citizens must obtain an eTAS eVisa before traveling to Somalia. There is no visa on arrival available at Mogadishu or other federal Somalia airports. Apply at etas.gov.so. The US Embassy in Somalia has also issued alerts regarding the eTAS data breach, so review current travel advisories before applying.
Can I get a Somali visa at the airport?
No. Visa on arrival is no longer available at Mogadishu International Airport or other federal Somalia entry points. The mandatory eTAS eVisa must be obtained online before departure. The one exception is Somaliland (Hargeisa Airport), where a separate visa on arrival system still operates.
What does a Somali embassy do now that visas are online?
Somali embassies focus on consular services for Somali citizens, including passport issuance, Power of Attorney processing, diaspora support, and emergency assistance. They also maintain diplomatic relations with host countries and can provide general guidance about the eTAS application process.
