Somalia entry requirements for Iraq passport holders
Updated weekly · Last reviewed June 28, 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
Iraqi passport holders need an eVisa to enter Somalia. The eVisa covers tourism and business visits, and you must apply online before traveling. As of 2026, this is the only way to get a visa for Somalia.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| eVisa application Apply for a Somalia eVisa online | Apply for a Somalia eVisa at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs portal. The eVisa is required for Iraqi passport holders. Submit your application at least a few days before travel — processing times vary. You'll receive an approval letter to present at the border.Apply for eVisa | Required |
| Valid passport Passport validity requirement | Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Somalia. Airlines and immigration officers at Mogadishu and Hargeisa airports enforce this strictly. Carry a photocopy of your passport bio page separately. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Proof of onward travel | Immigration at Mogadishu Aden Adde International Airport asks for a confirmed return or onward ticket. Airlines check this before boarding. Have a printed copy or digital booking ready. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel booking or host invitation | Carry a hotel reservation or a letter of invitation from your host in Somalia. Immigration may ask where you're staying, especially if you're arriving without a pre-arranged tour or business contact. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Sufficient funds for your stay | Have evidence of enough cash or a bank statement showing you can cover your expenses. Somalia is a cash-based economy — bring US dollars in small denominations. ATMs are scarce outside major hotels. | Recommended |
Security situation
Somalia has ongoing security risks. Check your government's travel advisory before booking. Avoid non-essential travel to many areas. Register with your embassy on arrival.
eVisa is the only option
As of 2026, Iraqi passport holders cannot get a visa on arrival or a traditional visa at the embassy. The eVisa is the only way to enter Somalia for tourism or business.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for the eVisa online
Go to the official Somalia eVisa website (if available) or use a trusted visa service. Fill in your details, upload a passport photo and a copy of your passport data page, and pay the fee. Processing usually takes 1–3 business days.
2
Print or save your eVisa approval
Once approved, you'll receive a PDF. Print a copy and also save it on your phone. You'll need to show it at check-in and on arrival.
3
Prepare your documents for departure
At the airport, present your passport, eVisa approval, and return ticket. The airline may check these before issuing your boarding pass.
4
Arrive at Mogadishu or Hargeisa airport
Most flights land at Aden Adde International Airport (MGQ) in Mogadishu or Egal International Airport (HGA) in Hargeisa. Follow signs to immigration. Have your passport, eVisa, and return ticket ready.
5
Go through immigration
Hand over your passport and eVisa. The officer may ask about your accommodation and purpose of visit. Answer clearly. You'll get an entry stamp — check the date is correct.
Download Somalia Entry Checklist
PDF · Iraq Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated June 28, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Tourist visa (single entry)
Max stay30 days
Validity3 months from issue
Cost$50 USD (approx. $50 USD)
Standard eVisa for tourism; non-extendable.
Tourist visa (multiple entry)
Max stay30 days per entry
Validity6 months from issue
Cost$70 USD (approx. $70 USD)
Allows multiple entries; useful for frequent travellers.
Business visa
Max stay30 days
Validity3 months from issue
Cost$80 USD (approx. $80 USD)
Requires invitation letter from Somali company.
work visa
Work Permit (Residence Visa)
1 year, renewable
~$200 USD (processing fee)
For foreign workers with a job offer from a Somali employer. Requires contract and approval from Ministry of Labour.
investor visa
Investor Visa
2 years, renewable
~$500 USD (processing fee)
For individuals investing a minimum of $50,000 USD in a Somali business. Requires proof of investment and business plan.
student visa
Student Visa
Duration of studies (up to 4 years)
~$100 USD (processing fee)
For enrolled students at recognized Somali educational institutions. Requires admission letter and proof of funds.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| eVisa (single entry)Standard fee for tourist eVisa, payable online. | $50 USD (approx. $50 USD) |
| eVisa (multiple entry)Allows multiple entries within validity period. | $70 USD (approx. $70 USD) |
| Overstay fine per dayCharged for each day overstayed beyond visa validity. | $10 USD per day |
| Overstay maximum capMaximum fine for overstay, regardless of duration. | $200 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
Transit visa is not required for airside transit at Somali airports if you stay in the international transit area and have a confirmed onward ticket.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Exceptions & conditions
- Holders of a valid visa for Somalia may transit without additional visa.
Transit hubsAden Adde International Airport (MGQ), Mogadishu · 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 AEssentialTyphoidEssentialPolioEssentialCholeraRecommendedRabiesConsider
Health risks
MalariaHigh risk
Widespread throughout Somalia; prophylaxis recommended for all travellers.
DengueModerate risk
Occasional outbreaks, especially in urban areas.
CholeraHigh risk
Risk due to poor sanitation; vaccination and safe food/water practices advised.
Malaria risk: high
Malaria is present throughout Somalia. Prophylaxis (e.g., atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline) is strongly recommended for all travellers.
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, Somalia (near Aden Adde International Airport)
Sun–Thu 08:00–16:00
Main office for visa extensions and immigration matters.
Hargeisa
Somaliland Immigration Office
Hargeisa, Somaliland (near Egal International Airport)
Sun–Thu 08:00–15:00
Handles immigration for Somaliland region; separate from Somalia.
Practical information for IQ 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
Processing usually takes 1–3 business days. Apply at least a week before your trip to be safe.
The official fee varies, but expect around $50–$80 USD. Check the official eVisa website for the exact amount.
No, the eVisa is not extendable. You must leave before it expires. If you need to stay longer, you'd need to apply for a different visa type before your current one expires.
Transit rules are unclear. It's safest to assume you need an eVisa even for a short layover. Check with your airline before booking.
Rejections are rare but can happen if your documents are incomplete or your passport is damaged. You can reapply with corrected information. Contact the nearest Somali embassy for help.
Somalia requires a yellow fever vaccination certificate if you're arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever. Check the latest health requirements before you travel.
No, visa on arrival is not available for Iraqi passport holders. You must have an eVisa before you travel.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on June 28, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.