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Somalia Visa for United States Citizens 2026

e-Visa / eTA

US citizens must obtain a Somali e-visa online before travel, typically valid for a single entry stay of up to 30 days.

Guide last updated October 2, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of entry
  • Completed online e-visa application with passport bio page scan and digital photo
  • Confirmed return or onward travel ticket
  • Letter of invitation or proof of purpose of visit, common for business travelers
  • Travel health insurance recommended; proof of yellow fever vaccination may be requested
  • No biometrics required for the e-visa application itself; fingerprints may be collected on arrival at the airport

Visa types

  • Tourist e-visa: single entry, valid for up to 30 days, fee approximately USD 60
  • Business e-visa: single entry, similar validity, often requires an invitation letter from a local host or company, fee approximately USD 60-80
  • Travel to Somalia carries significant security risk; the US State Department maintains a Level 4 Do Not Travel advisory, independent of the visa process

How to apply online

  • Apply through the official Somali e-visa portal linked from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs before departure
  • Steps: create an account, complete the application form, upload passport and photo, pay the fee online by card, and receive the approved e-visa by email
  • Processing typically takes 3-5 business days; print the approval and present it with your passport on arrival
  • Approval arrives as a PDF document, shown alongside your passport at the port of entry

Fees & processing time

  • E-visa fee: approximately USD 60, payable online by credit/debit card
  • No separate VFS/BLS service fee, since the e-visa is processed directly by the government portal
  • Standard processing: 3-5 business days; no publicly advertised expedited option

Tips for United States travelers

  • Apply well in advance given variable processing times and limited connectivity for support
  • Review the latest US State Department travel advisory for Somalia before finalizing plans, given the Level 4 security rating
  • Carry printed copies of your e-visa approval, as internet access on arrival may be unreliable
  • Register your trip with the nearest US embassy (Nairobi handles many regional services) given the limited US diplomatic presence in Somalia

Official links & resources

Always confirm requirements with government or embassy sources before applying.

More visa guides for United States 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.