Somalia entry requirements for Tanzania passport holders
Updated weekly · Last reviewed August 6, 2026·View sources
Visa on arrival
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
Tanzanian passport holders can get a visa on arrival in Somalia, so you don't need to arrange anything before you fly. Just make sure your passport is valid for at least six months and has one blank page. The process is straightforward but expect some waiting at the airport in Mogadishu.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Visa on arrivalYou don't need to apply in advance; you'll get the visa when you land. Obtain at entry | Tanzanian passport holders can obtain a visa on arrival at designated ports of entry in Somalia. Have the visa fee in cash (USD or SOS) and be prepared to show your purpose of visit. | Required |
| Passport validityCheck your passport expiry date — it must not expire within 6 months of your trip. At least 6 months | Your Tanzanian passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended date of departure from Somalia. | Required |
| Blank passport pagesCount the empty pages in your passport — you need at least one. At least 1 blank page | Your passport must have at least 1 blank page for the visa stamp and entry/exit stamps. | Required |
| Return or onward ticketHave your flight booking ready to show at the border. Proof of departure | Immigration may ask to see a confirmed return or onward flight ticket showing you will leave Somalia before your visa expires. | Required |
| Proof of fundsIt's not always asked, but having proof of money helps avoid issues. Sufficient for stay | Be ready to show evidence of sufficient funds (cash, bank statement, or credit card) to cover your stay in Somalia. | Recommended |
| Arrival declarationYou don't need to fill out any arrival declaration. Not required | No arrival declaration form is required for Tanzania passport holders entering Somalia. | Not required |
Security situation is serious
Somalia, particularly Mogadishu, has a high risk of terrorism and armed conflict. Only travel if you have essential business and have arranged security through a trusted local contact. Do not underestimate the risks.
Cash is king at the airport
There are no reliable ATMs or card payment facilities at Mogadishu airport. Bring enough USD cash to cover the visa fee and any immediate expenses like transport or food.
What happens at the border
1
Arrive at Aden Adde International Airport (Mogadishu)
After landing, follow the signs to the immigration hall. There's usually a dedicated queue for visa-on-arrival applicants — look for the sign or ask an officer.
2
Present your passport and documents
Hand over your passport, and if asked, your return ticket and accommodation details. The officer will check your passport validity and blank page.
3
Pay the visa fee
Pay in cash — USD is preferred. The fee varies, so ask the officer for the current amount. Keep the receipt if you get one.
4
Receive your visa stamp
The officer will stamp your passport with the visa on arrival. Check the stamp for the allowed stay duration before leaving the desk.
5
Proceed to baggage claim and exit
After getting the stamp, collect your luggage and walk through customs. Keep your passport handy for any spot checks.
Download Somalia Entry Checklist
PDF · Tanzania Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated August 6, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Business visa (single entry, 90 days)
Max stay90 days
Validity3 months from date of issue
Cost$60 (approximate)
Requires an invitation letter from a Somali sponsor; obtainable at the embassy or on arrival with prior approval.
Multiple-entry visa (6 months)
Max stay30 days per visit
Validity6 months
Cost$100 (approximate)
For frequent travelers; must be arranged through the Somali embassy or immigration in advance.
work visa
Somalia Work Permit
1 year, renewable
~$200 USD (approx. 460,000 TZS) plus employer sponsorship
For foreign nationals employed by a Somali company. Requires employer to sponsor and provide contract. Allows long-term stay and multiple entries.
student visa
Somalia Student Visa
Duration of studies, renewable annually
~$100 USD (approx. 230,000 TZS) plus university acceptance
For those enrolled in a recognized educational institution in Somalia. Requires proof of enrollment and sufficient funds.
investor visa
Somalia Investor Visa
2 years, renewable
~$500 USD (approx. 1,150,000 TZS) plus proof of investment
For individuals investing a minimum of $50,000 USD in a Somali business. Requires business plan and proof of funds.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Visa on arrival (single entry, 30 days)Payable in cash at major points of entry; fees may vary slightly. | $50 (or equivalent in USD) |
| Visa on arrival (single entry, 90 days)Available at some ports; confirm with immigration. | $60 (or equivalent in USD) |
| Visa extension (per 30 days)Apply at the Immigration Department in Mogadishu before expiry. | $30 (approximate) |
Common reasons for entry denial
Incomplete application form30%
Insufficient funds proof25%
No return ticket20%
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
Tanzanian passport holders transiting through Somalia require a visa, even if staying airside. However, if you have a confirmed onward ticket and remain in the international transit area for less than 24 hours, you may be allowed to transit without a visa at Mogadishu Airport, but this is not guaranteed.
Exceptions & conditions
- Diplomatic or official passport holders may be exempt.
- Crew members on duty may be exempt.
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 risk of yellow fever transmission.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidEssentialPolioRecommendedRabiesConsiderCholeraConsider
Health risks
MalariaHigh risk
Widespread throughout Somalia, especially in rural areas.
Dengue FeverModerate risk
Occurs in urban and semi-urban areas, especially during rainy seasons.
CholeraModerate risk
Risk increases during floods and in areas with poor sanitation.
Malaria risk: high
Malaria is endemic throughout Somalia. Prophylaxis recommended for all travellers, especially in rural areas.
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 Office
KM4 Street, Mogadishu, Somalia
Sun–Thu 08:00–16:00
Main office for visa extensions and inquiries. Bring passport, visa copy, and fee.
Hargeisa
Somaliland Immigration Office – Hargeisa
Airport Road, Hargeisa, Somaliland
Sun–Thu 08:00–15:00
Handles visa matters for Somaliland region. Separate visa may be required.
Practical information for TZ 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 visa on arrival is available at Aden Adde International Airport in Mogadishu. For other entry points like Hargeisa or Bosaso, the situation can differ — check with your airline or the nearest Somali embassy before travelling.
The fee is set by Somali immigration and can change. It's typically around $50–$60 USD, but you should bring extra cash in case it's higher. Ask the officer for the exact amount when you arrive.
The visa on arrival typically allows a stay of 30 days. The exact duration is stamped in your passport, so check it before you leave the immigration desk. If you need longer, you must leave the country and re-enter, as the visa is not extendable.
Somalia requires a yellow fever vaccination certificate if you're arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. Tanzania is not on that list, but if you've travelled elsewhere recently, carry your certificate just in case.
The security situation in Somalia is volatile, especially in Mogadishu. Many governments advise against all but essential travel. If you must go, use a reputable local security provider and avoid unnecessary movement. This is not a typical tourist destination.
No, the visa on arrival is not extendable. You'll need to leave the country before your stamped stay expires and re-enter if you want more time. Overstaying can lead to fines or detention, so keep track of your dates.
You'll be denied entry. Somali immigration strictly enforces the 6-month validity rule. If your passport is close to expiring, renew it before you travel — there's no flexibility on this.
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.