Somalia entry requirements for United Kingdom passport holders
Updated weekly · Last reviewed August 6, 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
UK passport holders must obtain an e-visa before travelling to Somalia. There is no visa-on-arrival option, so you need to apply online in advance. The process is straightforward, but you must ensure your passport meets the validity requirements and that all application details are accurate to avoid delays.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Somalia e-VisaYou cannot get a visa on arrival; you must have the approved e-Visa before boarding your flight. Apply before travel | British citizens must obtain an e-Visa prior to arrival. Apply online through the official Somali immigration portal. The e-Visa is single-entry and not extendable. | Required |
| Passport validityIf your passport expires sooner, you may be denied entry. At least 6 months | Your UK passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended date of entry into Somalia. | Required |
| Blank passport pagesThe blank page must be an actual visa page, not an endorsement page. At least 1 page | Your passport must contain at least one blank visa page for the entry stamp. | Required |
| Return or onward ticketImmigration may ask to see your outbound travel plans. Proof of departure | You must hold a confirmed return or onward ticket showing departure from Somalia within the validity of your e-Visa. | Required |
| Proof of fundsCarry proof to avoid any questions at the border. Sufficient for stay | You may be asked to show evidence of sufficient funds to cover your stay in Somalia (e.g., bank statements, cash, or credit cards). | Recommended |
| Arrival declarationYou do not need to fill out any additional arrival form beyond the e-Visa. Not required | No separate arrival declaration is required for Somalia. | Not required |
Security situation is volatile
Somalia has active conflict zones and a high risk of terrorism. The UK Foreign Office advises against all travel to many regions. If you must go, use a reputable security company and avoid non-essential movement.
E-visa is mandatory — no exceptions
There is no visa-on-arrival for UK citizens. Even if you're transiting or on a short visit, you need the e-visa. Apply well in advance and carry a printed copy.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for your e-visa online
Go to the official Somali immigration e-visa website. Fill in the application form with your personal details, passport information, and travel plans. Upload your passport photo and pay the fee (around $50 USD, depending on the type). Double-check everything before submitting — mistakes can cause delays.
2
Wait for approval
Processing usually takes 3–5 business days. Check your email regularly, including spam folders. You'll receive a PDF e-visa approval. Print it out and also save a copy on your phone.
3
Arrive at the airport
At Mogadishu's Aden Adde International Airport (or other entry points), go to the immigration queue. Present your passport, printed e-visa, and any supporting documents (like your yellow fever certificate if applicable). The officer will check your details and stamp your passport.
4
Entry stamp and stay
Once stamped, you're allowed to stay for the duration specified on your e-visa (typically 30 days). Keep your e-visa with you during your stay — you may need to show it when checking into hotels or at police checkpoints.
Download Somalia Entry Checklist
PDF · United Kingdom Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated August 6, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Business e-Visa (single entry, 90 days)
Max stay90 days
Validity90 days from issue
Cost$70
Requires invitation letter from Somali company
Multiple-entry e-Visa (90 days)
Max stay90 days per visit
Validity90 days from issue
Cost$100
For frequent business travellers
work visa
Work Permit (Residence Permit)
1 year, renewable
~$200 USD (processing fee)
For UK nationals employed by a Somali company or NGO. Requires employer sponsorship, contract, and police clearance. Allows multiple entries.
student visa
Student Visa
Duration of studies (up to 2 years)
~$100 USD (processing fee)
For UK nationals enrolled at a recognized Somali educational institution. Requires acceptance letter and proof of funds.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Single-entry e-Visa (30 days)Standard tourist/business e-visa fee | $50 |
| Single-entry e-Visa (90 days)Longer validity option | $70 |
| Multiple-entry e-Visa (90 days)For frequent travellers | $100 |
| Visa on arrival (if applicable)May be available at Mogadishu airport, subject to change | $60 |
| Visa extension (per 30 days)Apply at immigration office in Mogadishu | $30 |
| Exit fee (if applicable)Some airports may charge a departure tax | $20 |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Incomplete travel 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. There is no formal transit visa exemption.
Exceptions & conditions
- Diplomatic passport holders with prior arrangement
- Crew members with valid airline ID and on duty
Transit hubsAden Adde International Airport (MGQ) – Mogadishu · Hargeisa Egal International Airport (HGA) – Hargeisa · Bosaso Airport (BSA) – Bosaso
Health & vaccines for Somalia
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired if arriving from a country with yellow fever transmission risk.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidEssentialPolioEssentialCholeraRecommendedRabiesConsider
Health risks
MalariaHigh risk
Widespread throughout Somalia; prophylaxis strongly recommended.
Dengue FeverModerate risk
Mosquito-borne; present in urban and rural areas.
CholeraHigh risk
Waterborne; risk from contaminated food/water, especially during floods.
Malaria risk: high
High risk nationwide, including cities. Prophylaxis (e.g., atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline) 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
Maka Al Mukarama Road, Mogadishu
Sun–Thu 08:00–16:00
For visa extensions and residency permits; bring passport, photos, and fee in USD.
Hargeisa
Somaliland Immigration Office
Airport Road, Hargeisa
Sun–Thu 08:00–15:00
Separate jurisdiction; visa-on-arrival for UK passport holders available here.
Practical information for GB 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
Yes. UK passport holders must get an e-visa before arrival. There is no visa-on-arrival for UK citizens. Apply online through the official Somali immigration portal.
Typically 3–5 business days, but it can take longer during peak times or if there are issues with your application. Apply at least a week before your planned departure to be safe.
The fee is around $50 USD, but it can vary depending on the type of visa and processing speed. You'll pay online during the application. Check the official portal for the current fee.
No, the e-visa is not extendable. You must leave before it expires. If you need to stay longer, you'd have to leave the country and reapply, which is not practical. Plan your trip accordingly.
You'll be denied entry and likely put on the next flight back. There's no visa-on-arrival facility. Don't risk it — get the e-visa before you fly.
The UK Foreign Office advises against all travel to many parts of Somalia due to terrorism and armed conflict. Only travel if you have essential business and have robust security arrangements. Check the latest travel advice before booking.
Your passport (valid 6 months), printed e-visa, and possibly proof of accommodation and return flight. If you're arriving from a yellow fever risk country, you'll also need your vaccination certificate.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on August 6, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.