Somalia entry requirements for Japan passport holders
Verified May 14, 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
Japanese passport holders must get an eVisa before traveling to Somalia. The application is online only. As of 2026, this is the sole visa option for tourism or business visits.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| eVisa application Apply before travel | Apply for a Somalia eVisa at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs portal. Processing takes 3–5 business days. Print the approval letter and carry it with your passport.Apply for eVisa | Required |
| Valid passport Must cover your entire stay | Your passport needs at least one blank page for the visa sticker. Somalia does not enforce a 6-month validity rule beyond your stay, but airlines may ask for it. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Proof of departure | Immigration officers at Mogadishu airport routinely ask for a confirmed onward or return ticket. Have a printed copy or a digital version on your phone. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel booking or host letter | Carry a hotel reservation or an invitation letter from your host. Officers may ask where you're staying, especially if you arrive without a pre-booked hotel. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Cash or bank statement | Have at least $200 USD in cash or a recent bank statement. Somalia is a cash-based economy, so carry enough USD for your stay. | Recommended |
Security situation
Somalia has a high risk of terrorism, kidnapping, and armed conflict. Only travel if absolutely necessary, and always use a reputable local guide or security service. Register with your embassy on arrival.
eVisa is the only option
There is no visa on arrival or visa-free entry for Japanese passport holders. Do not attempt to board a flight without an approved eVisa — you will be turned away.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for the eVisa online
Go to the official Somali eVisa portal (if available) or use a trusted visa service. Fill in your details, upload a passport photo and a scan of your passport bio page. Pay the fee (cost varies, typically around $50-80 USD). Wait for approval — processing can take a few days to a week.
2
Pack your documents
Print or save on your phone: the eVisa approval email, your passport, return ticket, and hotel booking. Keep them in an easily accessible folder or phone album.
3
Arrive at the airport in Somalia
At Mogadishu Aden Adde International Airport (or other entry points), go to the immigration counter. Hand over your passport and eVisa approval. They may ask for your return ticket and hotel address. Answer clearly. You'll get an entry stamp.
4
Collect your luggage and exit
After immigration, pick up your bags from the carousel. There may be a customs check — declare any large amounts of cash or restricted items. Then you're free to leave.
Download Somalia Entry Checklist
PDF · Japan Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated May 14, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Tourist visa (single entry)
Max stay30 days, extendable 30 days
Validity3 months from issue
Cost$50 USD (approx. 7,500 JPY)
Standard eVisa for tourism, can be extended once at immigration office.
Tourist visa (multiple entry)
Max stay30 days per entry, extendable 30 days
Validity6 months from issue
Cost$100 USD (approx. 15,000 JPY)
Allows multiple entries; each stay up to 30 days, extendable.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| eVisa (single entry)Standard fee for tourist eVisa, payable online. | $50 USD (approx. 7,500 JPY) |
| Overstay fine per dayCharged for each day overstay, capped at $500. | $20 USD per day (approx. 3,000 JPY), max $500 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
No transit visa needed
Japan passport holders transiting through Somalia airports do not need a transit visa if staying airside and not passing through immigration.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Transit hubsAden Adde International Airport (MGQ) · Egal International Airport (HGA)
Health & vaccines for Somalia
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired if arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidEssentialPolioRecommendedRabiesConsider
Health risks
MalariaHigh risk
High risk throughout the country, especially in rural areas.
DengueModerate risk
Occasional outbreaks, especially during rainy seasons.
CholeraModerate risk
Risk from contaminated food and water; outbreaks occur.
Malaria risk: high
Prophylaxis recommended for all travellers; consider atovaquone-proguanil or doxycycline.
Based on CDC and WHO guidance. Consult a travel medicine clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalised advice.
Immigration offices for extensions
Mogadishu
Somalia 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.
Hargeisa
Somaliland Immigration Office
Hargeisa, Somaliland (near Egal International Airport)
Sun–Thu 08:00–15:00
For visa issues in Somaliland region; separate from Somalia proper.
Practical information for JP 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 = 571.37 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
No. As of 2026, Somalia does not offer visa on arrival for Japanese passport holders. You must get an eVisa before you travel.
Processing typically takes 3–7 business days. Apply at least two weeks before your trip to be safe. There is no expedited option.
The fee is usually between $50 and $80 USD, depending on the visa type and processing service. Pay online with a credit or debit card.
No. The eVisa is not extendable. You must leave before it expires. If you need to stay longer, you'd have to apply for a new visa from outside the country.
You will be denied entry. Renew your passport before applying for the eVisa. The 6-month validity is counted from your date of arrival in Somalia.
Somalia requires a yellow fever vaccination certificate if you are arriving from a country with yellow fever risk. Check with your doctor before travel.
Travel to Somalia carries significant security risks. Check your government's travel advisory before booking. Many travellers only visit secure areas like Mogadishu with local guides.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on May 14, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.