Somalia entry requirements for Ireland 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
Irish passport holders need a visa to enter Somalia. The process is done through an online eVisa application, which you must complete before you travel. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months from your date of arrival.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Somalia eVisaYou cannot get a visa on arrival; the eVisa must be approved before you fly. Apply online before travel | Irish passport holders must obtain an eVisa prior to arrival. Apply through the official Somali immigration eVisa portal, complete the application, and pay the fee. Approval is typically issued electronically; carry a printed copy. | Required |
| Passport validityIf your passport expires sooner, you may be denied boarding or entry. At least 6 months beyond entry | Your Irish passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your intended date of entry into Somalia. Check the expiry date well before booking. | Required |
| Blank passport pagesBorder officials need a clean page to stamp your passport. At least 1 blank page | Your passport must contain at least 1 blank page for entry stamps. Ensure no pages are damaged or missing. | Required |
| Return or onward ticketThis shows you are not planning to overstay. Proof of departure | Immigration may require proof of a return or onward flight ticket showing you will leave Somalia before your permitted stay ends. Have a printed or digital copy ready. | Required |
| Proof of fundsNot always asked, but having proof avoids delays. Sufficient for stay | Be prepared to show evidence of sufficient funds (e.g., bank statements, credit cards) to cover your stay in Somalia. 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 landing. Not required | No separate arrival declaration is required for Somalia for Irish passport holders. | Not required |
Security situation
Somalia is a high-risk destination. The Irish government advises against all travel. If you must go, hire professional security and stay in secure compounds. Check your travel insurance covers you for this destination.
eVisa is mandatory
There is no visa-on-arrival for Irish citizens. You must have an approved eVisa before you board your flight. Airlines will check this before allowing you to check in.
What happens at the border
1
Complete the online application
Go to the official Somali eVisa website and fill out the application form. You'll need to upload your passport photo and provide your travel details. Double-check all information before submitting to avoid delays.
2
Pay the visa fee
Pay the eVisa processing fee online using a credit or debit card. The fee is non-refundable, so make sure your application is correct before payment.
3
Receive your eVisa by email
Once approved, you'll receive your eVisa as a PDF attachment via email. Print a copy and also save it on your phone as a backup. The processing time is usually a few business days, so apply well in advance.
4
Present your eVisa at immigration
When you arrive at Mogadishu's Aden Adde International Airport (or other entry points), present your printed eVisa and passport to the immigration officer. They will stamp your passport and let you through.
Download Somalia Entry Checklist
PDF · Ireland 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.
Multiple entry visa
Max stay30 days per visit
Validity1 year
Cost$150
For frequent travelers; apply at Somali embassy.
work visa
Work Permit (Residence Visa)
1 year, renewable
~$200 USD (approx. €184) plus employer sponsorship
For foreign workers with a job offer from a Somali company. Requires employer to sponsor and provide contract. Allows long-term stay.
investor visa
Investor Visa
1 year, renewable
~$500 USD (approx. €460) plus proof of investment
For individuals investing in Somali businesses or real estate. Minimum investment amount not publicly specified; requires business plan.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| eVisa (single entry)Required for Irish citizens; apply online before travel. | $50 |
| Visa on arrival (if applicable)Only at select entry points; not guaranteed. | $60 |
| Extension of stayPer extension, up to 30 days; apply at immigration office. | $30 |
| Exit feeCharged at some airports; included in ticket for some airlines. | $20 |
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
Transit visa required for Irish citizens if leaving the airport transit area. Airside transit without visa is allowed for up to 24 hours.
Exceptions & conditions
- Diplomatic passport holders
- Crew members 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; certificate may be checked at entry.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidEssentialPolioEssentialCholeraRecommendedRabiesConsider
Health risks
MalariaHigh risk
Widespread throughout Somalia; prophylaxis recommended for all travellers.
Dengue feverModerate risk
Occurs in urban and rural areas; mosquito avoidance is key.
Food and waterborne diseasesHigh risk
Common due to poor sanitation; drink only bottled or boiled water.
Malaria risk: high
Malaria is present year-round in all regions. Prophylaxis (e.g., atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline) is 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
For visa extensions or overstay clearance; bring passport and fee in USD.
Hargeisa
Somaliland Immigration Office
Hargeisa, Somaliland (near Egal International Airport)
Sun–Thu 08:00–15:00
Separate jurisdiction; visas for Somaliland are handled here.
Practical information for IE 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
The processing time is usually a few business days, but it can vary. It's best to apply at least two weeks before your travel date to allow for any delays.
The fee is set by the Somali immigration authorities and is payable online. The exact amount can change, so check the official eVisa website for the current fee. It's typically around $50-70 USD, but confirm before applying.
No, the eVisa is not extendable. If you need to stay longer, you'll have to leave the country and reapply for a new visa. Plan your stay accordingly.
If you're transiting and not leaving the international transit area, you may not need a visa. However, if you plan to enter Somalia, you must have an eVisa. Check with your airline for specific transit requirements.
You will be denied entry and may be put on the next flight back. There is no visa-on-arrival for Irish citizens. Make sure you have your approved eVisa before you travel.
Somalia has significant security risks, including terrorism and armed conflict. The Irish Department of Foreign Affairs advises against all travel to Somalia. If you must go, use a reputable security company and stay in secure areas.
The currency is the Somali Shilling (SOS), but US dollars are widely accepted. Credit cards are rarely used, so bring enough cash in USD for your stay. ATMs are scarce and unreliable.
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.