Somalia entry requirements for France 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
French passport holders need an e-Visa to enter Somalia. You can apply online before you travel, which is the standard route for most visitors. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months from your arrival date and has at least one blank page for the entry stamp.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Somalia eVisaFrench passport holders must have an approved eVisa before boarding a flight to Somalia. Apply online before travel | You must obtain an eVisa prior to arrival. Apply through the official Somali immigration eVisa portal, upload your passport bio page and a digital photo, pay the fee, and receive the approved eVisa by email. Print a copy to present on arrival. | Required |
| Passport validityIf your passport expires sooner, you may be denied boarding or entry. At least 6 months beyond arrival | Your French passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry into Somalia. Check your passport's expiry date now and renew if needed. | Required |
| Blank passport pagesSomalia requires a blank page to stamp your passport on arrival. At least 1 blank page | Your passport must have at least 1 blank page for the entry stamp. Ensure no pages are damaged or missing. | Required |
| Return or onward ticketYou need to show you plan to leave Somalia within your allowed stay. Proof of exit from Somalia | Have a printed or digital copy of a return or onward flight ticket showing you will leave Somalia. Immigration may ask to see it. | Required |
| Proof of fundsCarry proof of financial means in case immigration asks. Sufficient for your stay | Be prepared to show evidence of sufficient funds for your stay, such as bank statements, credit cards, or cash. The amount is not fixed but should cover your expenses. | Recommended |
| Arrival declarationYou do not need to fill out any additional arrival form. Not required | No separate arrival declaration is required for Somalia. Your eVisa and passport are sufficient. | Not required |
Security situation
Somalia is a high-risk destination. Violent crime, terrorism, and kidnapping are serious concerns. Only travel if you have essential reasons and have arranged professional security. Register with your embassy upon arrival.
e-Visa is mandatory
There is no visa-on-arrival for French citizens. You must obtain the e-Visa before departure. Double-check your application details to avoid delays or denial.
What happens at the border
1
Complete the online e-Visa application
Go to the official Somali immigration e-Visa website and fill out the application form. You'll need your passport details, travel dates, and a digital photo. Double-check all information before submitting to avoid mistakes.
2
Pay the e-Visa fee
Pay the visa fee online using a credit or debit card. The fee is non-refundable, so make sure your application is correct. Keep the payment receipt for your records.
3
Receive your e-Visa by email
Once approved, you'll receive your e-Visa as a PDF via email. Print a copy and also save it on your phone. Check the details — name, passport number, dates — for any errors.
4
Arrive at the airport in Somalia
At Mogadishu's Aden Adde International Airport (or other entry points), go to the immigration desk. Present your passport and the printed e-Visa. The officer will stamp your passport and let you through. Have your return ticket and accommodation details handy in case they ask.
Download Somalia Entry Checklist
PDF · France Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated August 7, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Business visa
Max stay90 days
Validity6 months from issue
Cost$100
Requires invitation letter from Somali company and approval from Ministry of Interior.
Transit visa
Max stay72 hours
ValiditySingle entry
Cost$30
For onward travel within 72 hours; must have confirmed onward ticket.
work visa
Work Permit (Residence Permit)
1 year, renewable
~$200 USD (approx. €183) processing fee
For foreign employees with a Somali employer sponsor. Requires employment contract, company registration, and approval from Ministry of Labour. Allows multiple entries.
investor visa
Investor Visa
2 years, renewable
~$500 USD (approx. €457) plus investment proof
For individuals investing at least $50,000 USD in a Somali business. Requires business plan and proof of funds. Grants residency and work rights.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| e-Visa (single entry, tourist)Processing fee, payable online before travel. | $50 |
| e-Visa (multiple entry)For multiple entries within validity. | $70 |
| Visa on arrival (if eligible)Available at some ports of entry, but e-Visa is recommended. | $50 |
| Extension of stayPossible at immigration office in Mogadishu, subject to approval. | $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, including French citizens, require a visa to transit through Somalia, even if staying airside. A transit visa is available online or on arrival at major airports.
Exceptions & conditions
- Diplomatic passport holders with prior authorization
- Crew members on duty with valid airline ID
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 risk; certificate may be requested at entry.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidEssentialPolioEssentialCholeraRecommendedRabiesConsiderMeningococcal MeningitisRecommended
Health risks
MalariaHigh risk
Widespread throughout Somalia, including urban areas; prophylaxis strongly recommended.
Dengue FeverModerate risk
Occasional outbreaks, especially during rainy seasons; use mosquito repellent.
CholeraHigh risk
Risk due to poor water sanitation; drink only bottled or boiled water.
Malaria risk: high
Malaria is high throughout Somalia, including Mogadishu. Prophylaxis (e.g., atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline) is recommended for all travellers.
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, near Aden Adde International Airport
Sun–Thu 08:00–16:00
For visa extensions and residency permits; bring passport, photos, and fee in cash.
Hargeisa
Somaliland Immigration Office
Hargeisa, near Egal International Airport
Sun–Thu 08:00–15:00
Separate administration; visa-on-arrival available for Somaliland only.
Practical information for FR 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 typically takes 2-5 business days, but it can be longer during peak times or if additional checks are needed. Apply at least a week before your departure to be safe.
The fee varies depending on the type of visa and your nationality. For French citizens, it's usually around $50-70 USD. The exact amount is shown during the online application before you pay.
No, the e-Visa is not extendable. If you need to stay longer, you'll have to leave the country and re-apply, or check with the immigration office in Somalia for any special arrangements.
Somalia requires a yellow fever vaccination certificate if you're arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. Even if not required, it's recommended to get vaccinated and carry the certificate.
You'll likely be denied entry and sent back on the next flight. There's no visa-on-arrival facility for French citizens, so you must have the e-Visa before you travel.
The e-Visa is valid for entry through major airports like Mogadishu and Hargeisa. Land border crossings may have different rules — check with the Somali embassy if you plan to enter overland.
Somalia has significant security risks, including terrorism and kidnapping. Many governments advise against all travel. If you must go, use reputable security services and stay in secure areas. Check your government's travel advisory before booking.
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.