eTAS in Somalia: types, terms, documents

From September 1, 2025, the eTAS (Electronic Travel Authorization System) has been launched in Somalia. This is a modern visa that allows foreign citizens to obtain entry permission without the need to apply at a consulate.

eTAS is an alternative to the traditional visa, which makes the document processing faster, simpler, and safer. Now tourists and business travelers can apply in advance online and receive electronic entry confirmation.

Advantages of eTAS for travelers

• Time-saving: processing takes just a few days.
• Simplified border control.
• Accessibility for most foreigners entering Somalia.
• The document comes to e-mail in PDF format.

Who can get eTAS in Somalia?

The right to apply for eTAS is granted to citizens of nearly all countries in the world, including residents of Germany and European Union countries.  A standard set of documents is sufficient for entry.

• Validity of eTAS: 90 days from the date of issue.
• Allowed duration of stay: up to 30 days (single entry).
• Purpose of visit: tourism, business, transit, visiting family or friends.

Electronic visa (eTAS) processing — is the most convenient way to obtain entry permission to Somalia. Somali immigration and border services pay close attention to the accuracy of the application form, so we recommend contacting our managers for assistance. They do not make mistakes and always know all the nuances of filling out visa applications.

• Pay the visa fee.
• Pay the non-refundable processing fee using a credit or debit card.
• Receive confirmation and wait for a decision.
• After submission, you will receive a tracking number. The status of the application can be checked in the personal account.
• The standard processing time is from 15 to 20 working days, but it may take longer during periods of high load.
• Receive eTAS by email.
• After approval, the visa will be sent to your email address in PDF format.

Be sure to print several copies of this document. Present it when boarding the flight and upon arrival at the Somali immigration service along with your passport.

The cost of processing eTAS in Somalia starts from 99 euros and depends on the selected type of visa and the speed of its processing. The faster the document is required, the higher the service cost. The price may also be influenced by the visa validity period and additional services — for example, assistance in filling out forms, document translation, or insurance processing. The mentioned amount is valid as of September 2025, however, rates may change depending on updates in the country's visa system. To verify the current cost at the time of your request, we recommend visiting the page “Cost”.

To apply for an electronic visa to Somalia, a standard set of documents is required. However, be prepared to provide additional papers depending on the purpose of your visit.

• Foreign passport (must be valid for at least 6 months).
• Photo (digital, passport format).
• Hotel booking confirmation or an invitation from a private individual.
• Return ticket or travel itinerary.
• Bank card for payment of the fee.

• The permit is valid only together with the passport specified in the application.
• Entry is possible only through the international airports of Somalia:
  • Aden Adde International Airport (MGQ) in Mogadishu — the main and busiest air gateway of the country.
  • Hargeisa International Airport (HGA) — located in the city of Hargeisa, the capital of the unrecognized state of Somaliland. Important note: A separate Somaliland visa, which cannot be replaced by a Somali e-Visa, is required to enter through this airport.
  • Bosaso International Airport (BSA) — located in the city of the same name, a major port in the northeast in the Puntland region.
• If the passport is changed, re-registration of eTAS is required.

•  eTAS is processed online, visa — through the embassy.
•  eTAS is faster: 1–5 days, visa — several weeks.
•  eTAS is available to tourists and businessmen, regular visa — for long-term stays.