By HAN News Desk
MOGADISHU — Germany has formally granted full recognition to Somalia’s diplomatic passport, marking a significant step forward in the Horn of Africa nation’s efforts to strengthen its international standing.
Somalia’s Immigration and Citizenship Directorate announced the development on Monday, describing it as a major achievement for the country’s global mobility and diplomatic relations. The decision, published on 1 December 2025 in Germany’s official federal gazette, the Bundesanzeiger, confirms that Somali diplomatic passports will now be fully recognised for entry, travel, and residency procedures within Germany.
Previously, German regulations only recognised the Somali diplomatic passport when officials used it to depart their home country, but not for entering or residing in Germany. This restriction had long posed challenges for Somali diplomats and senior officials visiting the European Union’s largest economy. The new ruling removes those limitations and allows Somali diplomatic passport holders to travel to and enter Germany without the earlier constraints.
In a statement, Somalia’s Immigration and Citizenship Directorate said the decision demonstrates the progress the government has made in modernising its travel document systems, strengthening security features, and digitising immigration services. The agency thanked the German government and partner institutions for their cooperation, noting that the recognition forms part of a wider effort to increase global acceptance of Somali passports and improve the country’s migration infrastructure.
The announcement comes as Somalia continues its efforts to deepen international confidence in its governance and security institutions, following years of reforms aimed at stabilising state structures and restoring global partnerships.
