Somalia entry requirements for Canada 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
Canadian passport holders need an e-visa to enter Somalia. You can apply online before you travel, which is the most straightforward option. Processing typically takes 3–5 business days, so plan ahead.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Somalia eVisaYou cannot get a visa on arrival; secure your eVisa before flying. Apply online before travel | Canadian citizens must obtain an eVisa prior to arrival. Apply through the official Somali immigration eVisa portal, upload required documents, and pay the fee. Approval is typically issued electronically; carry a printed or digital copy. | Required |
| Passport validityEnsure your passport does not expire within 6 months of your arrival date. At least 6 months beyond entry | Your Canadian passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into Somalia. | Required |
| Blank passport pagesA blank page is needed for border officials to stamp your passport. At least 1 blank page | Your passport must contain at least 1 blank page for entry and exit stamps. | Required |
| Return or onward ticketHave your flight itinerary ready to show at border control. Proof of departure | Immigration may require proof of a return or onward ticket showing you will leave Somalia before your authorized stay expires. | Required |
| Proof of fundsCarry proof of financial means in case asked by immigration. Sufficient for stay | Be prepared to show evidence of sufficient funds (e.g., bank statements, credit cards) to cover your expenses during your stay in Somalia. | Recommended |
| Arrival declarationYou do not need to fill out an arrival form beyond standard immigration procedures. Not required | No separate arrival declaration is required for Somalia for Canadian citizens. | Not required |
Security situation is volatile
Somalia has a high risk of terrorism, kidnapping, and armed conflict. The Canadian government advises against all travel. If you must go, hire professional security and avoid non-essential movement.
E-visa is the only way
Canadians cannot get a visa on arrival. The e-visa must be obtained before you fly. Apply early and keep a printed copy with you.
Passport validity is strict
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from entry. Airlines may refuse boarding if your passport doesn't meet this, even if you have a visa.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for the e-visa online
Go to the official Somali e-visa portal and fill out the application form. Upload your passport photo and provide your travel details. Pay the visa fee online using a credit or debit card.
2
Receive your e-visa approval
Once processed, you'll receive an e-visa approval via email. Print a copy to carry with you — you'll need to show it at check-in and upon arrival in Somalia.
3
Arrive at the airport in Somalia
At Aden Adde International Airport in Mogadishu (or other entry points), proceed to immigration control. Present your passport, printed e-visa approval, and any requested documents (like your yellow fever certificate).
4
Get your passport stamped
The immigration officer will verify your e-visa and stamp your passport. You'll be allowed entry for the duration specified on your visa (typically 30 days).
Download Somalia Entry Checklist
PDF · Canada Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated August 7, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Business visa (eVisa)
Max stay30 days
Validity3 months from issue
Cost$100 USD
Requires invitation letter from Somali company; single entry.
Transit visa
Max stay72 hours
Validity7 days
Cost$40 USD
For onward travel within 72 hours; must show confirmed ticket.
work visa
Work Permit (Residence Permit)
1 year, renewable
~$200 USD (processing fee)
For foreign workers with a Somali employer. Requires job offer, contract, and approval from Ministry of Labour. Allows long-term stay.
investor visa
Investor Visa
2 years, renewable
~$500 USD (processing fee)
For investors with significant capital (minimum $100,000 USD) in a Somali business. Requires proof of investment and business plan.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| eVisa (single entry)Required for Canadian citizens; apply online before travel. | $60 USD |
| Visa on arrival (if pre-approved)Only for those with prior approval from Somali immigration; not guaranteed. | $60 USD |
| Visa extensionPossible at immigration office in Mogadishu; max 30 days per extension. | $30 USD |
| Airport departure taxOften included in airline ticket; verify at check-in. | $30 USD |
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
Canadian citizens transiting through Somalia require a transit visa, even if staying airside. Apply online before travel.
Exceptions & conditions
- Diplomatic passport holders may be exempt with prior arrangement.
Transit hubsAden Adde International Airport (MGQ) · Hargeisa Egal International Airport (HGA)
Health & vaccines for Somalia
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired if arriving from a country with yellow fever transmission; certificate must be presented.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidEssentialPolioRecommendedRabiesConsiderMeningococcalConsider
Health risks
MalariaHigh risk
Widespread throughout Somalia, especially in rural areas. Prophylaxis recommended.
Dengue FeverModerate risk
Occasional outbreaks in urban areas. Use mosquito repellent.
CholeraModerate risk
Risk from contaminated food/water. Practice safe eating and drinking.
Malaria risk: high
High risk nationwide. CDC recommends prophylaxis (e.g., atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline) and mosquito avoidance.
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 permits. Bring passport, photos, 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 handled here.
Practical information for CA 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 times vary, but typically it takes 3–5 business days. Apply at least a week before your planned travel to be safe.
The e-visa fee is around $50–$70 USD, depending on the type and duration. Payment is made online during the application.
No, the e-visa is not extendable. If you need to stay longer, you must leave the country and reapply, or contact immigration in Mogadishu to discuss options before your visa expires.
Yes, even for transit you'll need a visa. There's no transit visa exemption for Canadian citizens. Apply for the e-visa before you travel.
You'll likely be denied entry and sent back on the next flight. There is no visa-on-arrival for Canadians at most entry points, so don't risk it.
The Government of Canada advises against all travel to Somalia due to terrorism, crime, and armed conflict. If you must go, get professional security advice and have a solid plan.
The e-visa is valid for entry at major airports and land borders, but check the specific entry points listed on your approval. Some smaller crossings may not accept e-visas.
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.