Reporting by: HAN News Desk
MOGADISHU – The Federal Government of Somalia has announced that its electronic visa (E-Visa) system will soon be mandatory for all international flights arriving in the capital, Mogadishu. The initiative is part of the government’s broader plan to modernise border management, enhance national security, and align Somalia’s travel procedures with international standards.
Officials say the E-Visa system allows travelers to apply online before arrival, reducing waiting times at entry points, minimising bureaucratic delays, and improving security monitoring. The system is expected to streamline entry procedures for tourists, businesspeople, diplomats, and other international visitors, making travel to Somalia faster, safer, and more efficient.
The announcement comes amid the government’s efforts to strengthen the country’s immigration system and improve service delivery. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud visited the headquarters of Somalia’s Immigration and Citizenship Department in Mogadishu to endorse the initiative, highlighting the administration’s commitment to digitalisation, institutional reform, and modern governance.
The E-Visa system has been widely welcomed by the Somali public, many of whom view it as a long-awaited step toward modernising government services and facilitating international travel. “This system will make it easier for visitors to plan their trips and ensure a smoother entry process,” said a senior government official.
For those hesitant about the E-Visa, government sources said regulations will soon require compliance for all incoming international flights. This means every passenger arriving at Mogadishu will need to obtain an E-Visa prior to travel, ensuring consistent enforcement and improved border security.
Experts also note that the E-Visa system could boost Somalia’s economy by attracting more international visitors and investors, while increasing transparency and efficiency in immigration procedures. By adopting digital platforms for visa processing, Somalia aims to reduce administrative bottlenecks and promote greater confidence among travelers and international partners.
Beyond facilitating travel, the E-Visa initiative is seen as a tool to strengthen national unity and institutional capacity. The government plans to continue expanding digital services across other sectors to modernise public administration and enhance Somalia’s global connectivity.
President Mohamud’s support for the initiative underscores the administration’s vision of a secure, accessible, and forward-looking Somalia, where modern governance and digital transformation support economic growth, improved public services, and international cooperation.
