Somalia replaced its visa on arrival system with a mandatory electronic visa (eTAS) in September 2025. If you are searching for a Somalia visa on arrival, the short answer is: it is no longer available at Mogadishu International Airport. However, there is one important exception – Somaliland still offers visa on arrival at Hargeisa International Airport. This guide explains the current situation, who can still get a VOA, and how to apply for the eTAS that replaced it.
Is Somalia Visa on Arrival Still Available?
No, traditional visa on arrival is no longer available for most travelers entering Somalia through Mogadishu or other federal government-controlled entry points. The Federal Government of Somalia introduced the Electronic Travel Authorization System (eTAS) as a mandatory requirement for all foreign nationals effective September 1, 2025.
The Somali Embassy in Sweden confirms: “The Embassy no longer issues visas in-person – all applicants must apply through the official eTAS portal.” This means you cannot obtain a visa at the airport upon arrival in Mogadishu, nor can you get one from a Somali embassy or consulate abroad.
The One Exception: Somaliland
Somaliland, a self-declared independent region in northern Somalia, operates its own immigration system separate from the Federal Government. According to the UK Foreign Office, travelers arriving at Hargeisa International Airport “may still be asked to present this eVisa in order to board your flight but it will not be considered valid for entry when you arrive in Hargeisa.”
At Hargeisa, you will need to purchase a single-entry visa upon arrival, valid for one month. This VOA is separate from the federal government’s eTAS system and is managed by Somaliland’s own immigration authorities. The visa on arrival fee at Hargeisa is typically paid in cash (USD).
Note that the UK government states it is “not clear if you’ll be given a visa on arrival at other points of entry” in Somaliland, so confirm with local authorities if entering by land. Some land border crossings may not offer VOA, and requirements can change without notice.
You may also need a letter of invitation outlining the reason for your visit, which you can usually obtain from your employer or host organization. Business travelers should carry additional documentation including company registration details and meeting invitations.
Why Somalia Replaced Visa on Arrival with eTAS
Somalia implemented the eTAS system to modernize its immigration infrastructure and improve border security. The previous visa on arrival process was paper-based, slow, and difficult to track. The digital-first approach offers several advantages:
- Streamlined processing: Applications are reviewed before arrival, reducing airport wait times
- Centralized records: All visa data is stored in a single digital database
- Enhanced security: Pre-screening travelers before they board flights improves border control
- Revenue protection: Online payment reduces fraud and ensures proper fee collection
This move aligns Somalia with global trends. Countries like the United States (ESTA), Australia (ETA), Canada (eTA), and the European Union (ETIAS, planned) have all moved to electronic travel authorization systems. The eTAS also helps Somalia maintain better records of who enters and exits the country, which supports national security and public safety efforts.
Visa-Free Entry to Somalia
A limited number of countries have bilateral agreements with Somalia that allow visa-free entry for short stays. Citizens of these nations do not need an eTAS or visa on arrival:
- 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 citizens of all other countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, European Union member states, India, Pakistan, Turkey, China, Japan, Australia, and Canada, an approved eTAS is mandatory before travel to Somalia.
How to Apply for Somalia eTAS (The Replacement for Visa on Arrival)
Since visa on arrival is no longer available at Mogadishu, you must apply for an eTAS before your trip. For a complete overview of the eTAS system, see our Somalia eVisa guide. The process is fully online through the official portal operated by Somalia’s Immigration and Citizenship Agency (ICA).
Step-by-Step eTAS Application Process
- Visit the official eTAS portal at etas.gov.so
- Create an account with your email address
- Complete the application form with personal details, travel dates, and purpose of visit
- Upload required documents including passport scan and photo
- Pay the fee online via credit or debit card
- Submit the application and wait for email confirmation
- Receive your approved eTAS via email – print or save on your phone
- Present the eTAS to immigration upon arrival in Somalia
Apply at least 2-3 weeks before your planned travel date to allow for processing time and any potential delays.
Somalia eTAS Requirements
Before applying, ensure you have the following documents ready:
- Valid passport with at least 6 months remaining validity from your date of entry
- Passport-size photo or selfie (recent, clear, meeting standard photo requirements)
- Travel itinerary including flight bookings and dates
- Accommodation confirmation such as hotel booking or host’s address
- Return flight booking or onward travel proof
- Letter of invitation (if applicable) for business or official visits
Passport Validity
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned entry date into Somalia. This requirement applies to all nationalities and all visa types. Travelers with passports that expire sooner than 6 months will be denied entry, even with an approved eTAS.
Somalia eTAS Fee
The Somalia eTAS costs $67 USD in government fees. This is a flat rate that applies to all nationalities regardless of visa type or duration. Payment is made online through the official eTAS portal via credit or debit card.
If you use a third-party visa service for application assistance, total costs range from $94 to $150 USD, including the $67 government fee plus service charges. The express processing option costs approximately $150 USD total.
For a detailed breakdown of all costs, see our Somalia eVisa Fee guide.
eTAS Processing Time
Standard eTAS processing typically takes 3-5 business days after submission. However, processing may take longer during peak travel periods or if additional documentation is required.
Factors that can delay processing:
- Incomplete application forms
- Poor quality passport scans or photos
- Missing accommodation or flight details
- High application volume during holidays
To avoid delays, double-check all uploaded documents before submitting and apply well in advance of your travel date.
Important: eTAS Data Breach Warning
There have been reports of a data breach affecting Somalia’s eVisa system. According to the UK Foreign Office, “leaked data from the breach includes visa applicants’ names, photos, dates and places of birth, email addresses, marital status, and home addresses.”
The US Embassy in Somalia has also issued an alert to US citizens regarding this breach. The data breach is reported to be ongoing and could expose personal data entered into the system.
While an eVisa is still required before traveling to Somalia, travelers should be aware of this security concern when submitting their personal information through the eTAS portal. Consider the risks before applying and monitor official government advisories for updates.
Somalia Visa on Arrival vs. eTAS: Comparison
| Feature | Visa on Arrival (Old System) | eTAS (Current System) |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | No longer available at Mogadishu | Mandatory for all travelers |
| Somaliland (Hargeisa) | Still available (single entry, 30 days) | Not accepted for entry |
| Application | At the airport upon arrival | Online before travel |
| Processing | Immediate (at airport) | 3-5 business days |
| Fee | Varied | $67 USD (flat rate) |
| Embassy option | Previously available | No longer available |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a visa on arrival in Somalia?
No, visa on arrival is no longer available at Mogadishu International Airport or other federal government-controlled entry points in Somalia. The only exception is Hargeisa International Airport in Somaliland, where a single-entry visa on arrival is still available for one month.
Do US citizens need a visa for Somalia?
Yes, US citizens must obtain an approved eTAS before traveling to Somalia. Visa on arrival is not available at Mogadishu. US citizens can apply online through the official eTAS portal at etas.gov.so. The US Embassy in Somalia has also issued a security alert regarding the eVisa system data breach.
Can I apply for a visa on arrival?
No, you cannot apply for a visa on arrival at Mogadishu. The Federal Government of Somalia replaced the visa on arrival system with the mandatory eTAS (electronic visa) in September 2025. You must apply online and receive approval before your trip.
How long does a Somali eVisa take?
Standard processing for the Somalia eTAS takes 3-5 business days. Express processing options are available through third-party services for faster turnaround. Apply at least 2-3 weeks before your travel date to account for any delays.
What is the difference between Somalia and Somaliland visas?
Somalia (Mogadishu and federal government areas) requires the eTAS electronic visa applied for online. Somaliland (Hargeisa) operates a separate immigration system and still offers visa on arrival at Hargeisa International Airport. The eTAS is not valid for entry into Somaliland, and the Somaliland VOA is not valid for entry into federal Somalia.
Which countries are visa-free for Somalia?
Djibouti, Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia, and Eritrea have visa-free arrangements with Somalia for short stays of up to 90 days. Citizens of all other countries must obtain an approved eTAS before travel.
