By HAN News Desk
MOGADISHU — The Federal Government of Somalia has officially launched a new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, marking a major shift in how the country monitors and manages international travel. The system came into effect on Wednesday and is now mandatory for all passengers arriving on international flights into Somalia.
Under the new regulations, airlines are prohibited from boarding any passenger who has not obtained prior authorisation from the Federal Government, either through an approved ETA or the existing e-visa platform. The verification process will take place before travellers depart from foreign airports, with passenger data checked electronically in real time against Somalia’s security and immigration systems. Government officials say this pre-departure clearance is designed to block inadmissible or high-risk individuals before they even enter Somali airspace.
Authorities say the new system is part of broader efforts to strengthen national security and modernise border control operations. The ETA is expected to enable background checks prior to arrival, improve tracking of foreign visitors, prevent illegal entry, and bring Somalia’s immigration procedures closer to international aviation and security standards.
The move comes at a politically sensitive time, as both Somaliland and Puntland have previously rejected the federal e-visa system, arguing that they independently manage their own airspace and entry procedures. Their opposition highlights longstanding disputes over federal authority, governance powers, and control of national airspace—issues that have frequently contributed to political tensions between Mogadishu and regional administrations.
Despite these disagreements, federal authorities maintain that a unified national travel authorisation system is essential for safeguarding Somalia’s security, especially as the country continues to face threats from militant groups and transnational criminal networks. Officials stress that all international arrivals, regardless of their destination within Somalia, must comply with the new ETA requirements.
The rollout of the ETA is part of a wider government effort to digitise public services, modernise immigration systems, and build a more efficient national security framework. The Ministry of Interior says the system will continue to be upgraded as the government works to enhance airport screening and incorporate biometric technologies.
