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Somalia Visa for United Kingdom Citizens 2026

e-Visa / eTA

British citizens need an e-Visa for Somalia, applied for online before travel via the government e-visa portal, with approval typically issued within 1-3 business days.

Guide last updated October 7, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date, with at least one blank page
  • Digital passport-style photo (passport bio-data page scan uploaded during the online application)
  • Proof of accommodation in Somalia (hotel booking or host letter)
  • Return or onward flight ticket
  • Evidence of sufficient funds for your stay
  • Letter of invitation if travelling for business or with an NGO/UN agency
  • No biometric enrolment needed for the e-Visa; biometrics may be collected on arrival at the airport
  • Travel health insurance is strongly recommended, and proof of yellow fever vaccination can be requested

Visa types

  • Tourist e-Visa - single entry, typically valid for 30 days from date of entry
  • Business e-Visa - single entry, 30 days, requires an invitation letter from a Somali company or organisation
  • NGO/official e-Visa - for aid workers and officials, usually requiring supporting documentation from the sponsoring organisation
  • Longer stays or multiple-entry needs require a residence permit arranged after arrival through the Somali Immigration and Citizenship Agency

How to apply online

  • Apply through Somalia's official e-visa portal (evisa.somalia.gov.so) or the National Immigration and Citizenship Agency online system
  • Create an account, complete the application form with passport and travel details, and upload the required documents
  • Pay the fee online by debit/credit card
  • Approval is typically emailed within 1-3 business days as a PDF to print and present on arrival
  • Print the approval and carry it along with your passport to Mogadishu Aden Adde International Airport or your port of entry

Fees & processing time

  • E-Visa fee is approximately USD 60 for a single-entry tourist/business visa, paid online by card
  • Standard processing is 1-3 business days; some applications are approved within 24 hours
  • No separate VFS/BLS service fee, as the application is processed directly through the government portal
  • An on-arrival visa fee of around USD 60 may also apply if the e-Visa system is unavailable, payable in USD cash

Tips for United Kingdom travelers

  • Apply at least a week before travel to allow for any delays in processing
  • Double-check the spelling of your name and passport number on the application, as mismatches are a common reason for rejection or delay
  • The UK FCDO advises against all travel to most of Somalia except certain areas including Mogadishu for essential travel only - check current advice before booking
  • Carry a printed copy of your e-Visa approval, as connectivity on arrival can make it hard to show a digital copy
  • Register with the British Embassy's travel advice service before departure given the security situation

Official links & resources

Always confirm requirements with government or embassy sources before applying.

More visa guides for United Kingdom passport holders

This guide is for information only. Visa policies change without notice. Travel Visa Stack is not an immigration authority. Always verify with official government or embassy sources before making travel plans.