Somalia entry requirements for Bulgaria passport holders
Updated weekly · Last reviewed August 7, 2026·View sources
eVisa required
Max stay
No fixed limit
Passport validity
6 months
Beyond entry date
Return ticket
Required
Or onward travel proof
Proof of funds
Recommended
May be checked
Bulgarian passport holders need an eVisa to enter Somalia. You can apply online before you travel, which is the standard route for all visitors. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your arrival date and has at least one blank page.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Somalia e-VisaYou cannot get a visa on arrival; you must have the approved e-Visa before boarding. Apply online before travel | Bulgarian citizens must obtain an e-Visa prior to arrival. Apply through the official Somali immigration e-Visa portal, complete the application, pay the fee, and receive the approved e-Visa by email. Print a copy to present upon arrival. | Required |
| Passport validityIf your passport expires sooner, renew it before traveling. At least 6 months beyond entry | Your Bulgarian passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended date of entry into Somalia. | Required |
| Blank passport pagesThe immigration officer will stamp your passport; a blank page is needed for that. At least 1 blank page | Your passport must have at least 1 blank page for the entry stamp. It is recommended to have 2 blank pages to avoid issues. | Required |
| Return or onward ticketImmigration may ask to see your outbound travel plans. Proof of departure | You must have a confirmed return or onward ticket showing you will leave Somalia before your authorized stay expires. | Required |
| Proof of fundsNot always asked, but having proof avoids problems at entry. Sufficient for stay | Be prepared to show evidence of sufficient funds to cover your stay in Somalia, such as bank statements or cash. The amount is not fixed but should match your planned duration. | Recommended |
| Arrival declarationYou do not need to fill out any additional health or customs form before arrival. Not required | No separate arrival declaration is required for Bulgaria passport holders entering Somalia. | Not required |
Security situation
Somalia has a volatile security environment, especially in Mogadishu. Check your government's travel advisory before booking. Avoid non-essential travel to high-risk areas and always use reputable local contacts.
eVisa is mandatory — no alternatives
There is no visa-on-arrival or embassy visa option for Bulgarian citizens. The only way to get a visa is through the online eVisa system. Apply well in advance and keep a printed copy with you.
What happens at the border
1
Complete the online eVisa application
Go to the official Somali eVisa portal and fill in your personal details, passport information, and travel plans. Upload your passport photo and any required documents. Double-check everything before submitting — mistakes can cause delays.
2
Pay the visa fee
Pay the non-refundable eVisa fee online using a credit or debit card. The fee is typically around $50–$70 USD, but check the current amount on the portal. Keep the payment receipt.
3
Receive and print your eVisa
Once approved (usually within a few days), you'll receive the eVisa by email. Print a copy and also save it on your phone. You'll need to show it at check-in and upon arrival in Somalia.
4
Arrive at Mogadishu or other entry point
When you land at Aden Adde International Airport (Mogadishu) or another entry point, go to immigration control. Present your passport, printed eVisa, and any supporting documents. The officer will stamp your passport and let you through.
Download Somalia Entry Checklist
PDF · Bulgaria Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated August 7, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Business visa (single entry, 90 days)
Max stay90 days
Validity6 months from issue
Cost$100
Requires invitation letter from Somali company and approval from Ministry of Interior.
Multiple entry visa (1 year)
Max stay30 days per visit
Validity1 year
Cost$200
Available through Somali embassy; requires proof of previous travel to Somalia.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| eVisa (single entry, 30 days)Apply online before travel; processing takes 2-5 business days. | $50 |
| Visa on arrival (if eligible)Only at Mogadishu (MGQ) and Hargeisa (HGA) airports; not guaranteed for all nationalities. | $60 |
| Visa extension (per 30 days)Apply at immigration office in Mogadishu; max extension up to 90 days. | $30 |
| Airport departure taxUsually included in airline ticket; verify at check-in. | $30 |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Incomplete documents20%
Approval probability calculator
Answer 6 quick questions — we'll estimate how likely you are to be approved for entry based on typical immigration patterns.
Transiting through Somalia
Transit visa required
All foreign nationals transiting through Somalia require a visa, even if staying airside. Obtain an eVisa before travel.
Exceptions & conditions
- Diplomatic passport holders
- Crew members with valid airline ID and on duty
Transit hubsAden Adde International Airport (MGQ) – Mogadishu · Egal International Airport (HGA) – Hargeisa
Health & vaccines for Somalia
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired if arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission; certificate may be requested.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidEssentialPolioEssentialCholeraRecommendedRabiesConsider
Health risks
MalariaHigh risk
Widespread throughout Somalia; prophylaxis recommended for all travellers.
Dengue FeverModerate risk
Occasional outbreaks, especially in urban areas; use mosquito repellent.
CholeraModerate risk
Risk from contaminated food/water; practice strict hygiene.
Malaria risk: high
High risk throughout the country, including urban areas. Prophylaxis (e.g., atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline) strongly recommended.
Based on CDC and WHO guidance. Consult a travel medicine clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalised advice.
Immigration offices for extensions
Mogadishu
Somali Immigration Department
Mogadishu, Somalia (near Aden Adde International Airport)
Sun–Thu 08:00–16:00
Main office for visa extensions and immigration matters; bring passport, visa, and fee in cash.
Hargeisa
Somaliland Immigration Office
Hargeisa, Somaliland (near Egal International Airport)
Sun–Thu 08:00–15:00
Separate jurisdiction for Somaliland; visa-on-arrival available, but extensions may be handled locally.
Practical information for BG travellers
Country basics
CapitalMogadishu
LanguageSomali, Arabic
Driving sideRight-hand traffic
US driving licenceUS visitors can drive with a valid US license for up to 90 days, but an International Driving Permit is recommended.
Money
CurrencySomali Shilling (SOS)
Exchange rate
1 USD = 571.42 SOS
Time zone
Local timeUTC+3
vs New York+8h
vs Los Angeles+11h
Electricity
Voltage220V / 50Hz
Plug types
C,FType C (two round pins) and Type F (two round pins with earth clips)
⚠ US adapter needed
Water & health
Tap water
Not safe — use bottled
Tap water is not safe to drink; use bottled or boiled water.
Emergency numbers
Frequently asked questions
Processing usually takes 3–5 business days, but it can take longer. Apply at least two weeks before your trip to be safe. There's no expedited service, so don't leave it to the last minute.
The fee is around $50–$70 USD, depending on the current rate. It's paid online with a credit or debit card and is non-refundable, even if your application is rejected.
No, Bulgarian citizens cannot get a visa on arrival. You must have an approved eVisa before you board your flight. Airlines will check this before allowing you to check in.
The standard Somali eVisa is single-entry. If you leave Somalia and want to return, you'll need to apply for a new eVisa. Check your visa approval for the exact conditions.
You'll be denied entry. Somali immigration enforces the six-month rule strictly. Renew your passport before applying for the eVisa.
Yes, a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travelers arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission. Even if you're not coming from such a country, it's recommended to have it. Carry the certificate with you.
No, the eVisa is not extendable. You must leave before the authorized period ends. Overstaying can result in fines or deportation.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on August 7, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.