Somalia entry requirements for Iceland passport holders
Updated weekly · Last reviewed August 7, 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
Icelandic passport holders need an e-visa to enter Somalia. You can apply online before you travel, which is the most straightforward route. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your arrival date.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Somalia eVisaIcelandic passport holders must have a pre-approved eVisa to enter Somalia. Apply before travel | You must obtain an eVisa for Somalia before departure. Apply online through the official Somali immigration eVisa portal, and carry the approved eVisa document with you. The eVisa is not extendable. | Required |
| Passport validityYour passport must not expire soon after your arrival. At least 6 months | Your Icelandic passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended date of entry into Somalia. | Required |
| Blank passport pagesImmigration officers need a clean page to stamp your passport. At least 1 blank page | Your passport must have at least one blank page for entry and exit stamps. | Required |
| Return or onward ticketImmigration may require evidence of your planned departure. Proof of departure | You may be asked to show a return or onward ticket proving you will leave Somalia before your visa expires. | Required |
| Proof of fundsYou may be asked to show you can support yourself during your visit. Sufficient for stay | Carry evidence of sufficient funds to cover your stay in Somalia, such as bank statements or cash in a major currency. | Recommended |
| Arrival declarationYou do not need to fill out any additional arrival form. Not required | No separate arrival declaration is required for Iceland passport holders entering Somalia. | Not required |
Security situation
Somalia has a volatile security environment. Check your government's travel advisory before booking. Avoid non-essential travel to areas outside Mogadishu, and always use reputable local contacts.
E-visa is the only option
Icelandic citizens cannot get a visa on arrival. You must apply online before you travel. There is no embassy in Iceland, so the e-visa is the most practical route.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for the e-visa online
Go to the official Somali e-visa portal (evisa.so) and fill out the application form. Upload your passport scan, photo, and travel documents. Pay the fee with a credit or debit card. Processing typically takes 3–5 business days, but apply at least a week before your trip.
2
Receive your e-visa by email
Once approved, you'll get a PDF e-visa attached to an email. Print two copies — one to keep with your passport, one as a backup. Check that your name, passport number, and dates are correct.
3
Arrive at the airport in Somalia
At Aden Adde International Airport in Mogadishu (or other entry points), go to the immigration desk. Present your passport, printed e-visa, and any supporting documents. The officer will stamp your passport. Keep the e-visa with you for the duration of your stay.
4
Register with local authorities (if staying long-term)
If you're staying more than 30 days, you may need to register with the local immigration office. Your hotel or host can help arrange this. It's not required for short visits but avoids issues if you overstay.
Download Somalia Entry Checklist
PDF · Iceland Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated August 7, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Business visa (pre-arranged)
Max stay30 days
Validity3 months from issue
Cost$100 (approx.)
Requires invitation letter from Somali sponsor; obtain before travel.
Transit visa (if leaving airport)
Max stay72 hours
ValiditySingle entry
Cost$30 (approx.)
For those transiting through Somalia and needing to exit the airport.
work visa
Work Permit (Residence Permit)
1 year, renewable
~$200 USD (approx. $200 USD)
For foreign nationals employed by a Somali company. Requires employer sponsorship and contract. Allows multiple entries.
investor visa
Investor Visa
2 years, renewable
~$500 USD (approx. $500 USD)
For individuals investing a minimum of $50,000 USD in a Somali business. Requires proof of investment and business plan.
student visa
Student Visa
1 year, renewable annually
~$100 USD (approx. $100 USD)
For those enrolled in a recognized educational institution in Somalia. Requires admission letter and proof of funds.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Visa on arrival (single entry)Payable in cash (USD) at port of entry; subject to change. | $50 (approx.) |
| Visa extension (per month)Apply at immigration office in Mogadishu; approval not guaranteed. | $60 (approx.) |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Unclear travel purpose20%
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
Icelandic citizens transiting through Somalia (e.g., at Mogadishu Aden Adde International Airport) must obtain a visa in advance or on arrival, even if staying airside. There is no visa-free transit.
Exceptions & conditions
- Diplomatic or official passport holders with prior authorization
Transit hubsAden Adde International Airport (MGQ) · Hargeisa Egal International Airport (HGA)
Health & vaccines for Somalia
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired if arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidEssentialPolioEssentialRabiesRecommendedCholeraConsider
Health risks
MalariaHigh risk
Widespread throughout Somalia, especially in rural areas. Prophylaxis recommended.
Dengue FeverModerate risk
Occurs in urban and rural areas, especially during rainy seasons.
CholeraModerate risk
Risk from contaminated food and water; outbreaks occur.
Malaria risk: high
High risk throughout the country, including urban areas. Prophylaxis (e.g., atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline) strongly recommended.
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. Bring passport, photos, and fee.
Hargeisa
Somaliland Immigration Office
Hargeisa, Somaliland (near Egal International Airport)
Sun–Thu 08:00–15:00
Handles immigration for Somaliland region. Separate visa may be required.
Practical information for IS 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 3–5 business days. Apply at least a week before your trip to account for any delays. The e-visa is sent to your email as a PDF.
The fee varies depending on the type of visa (single entry, multiple entry, etc.) and is paid online during the application. Expect to pay around $50–$70 USD for a single-entry tourist visa. Check the official portal for the exact amount.
No. Icelandic passport holders must have an approved e-visa before arriving. There is no visa-on-arrival facility for Icelandic citizens.
No, the e-visa is not extendable. If you need to stay longer, you must leave the country and re-apply, or contact the Somali immigration office before your visa expires to see if any other options exist.
If rejected, you'll receive an email explaining the reason. You can re-apply with corrected information, or you may need to visit the nearest Somali embassy or consulate to apply in person. It's rare, but make sure all documents are accurate.
Somalia requires a yellow fever vaccination certificate if you're arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. Even if not required, it's recommended to have the shot and carry the certificate.
The e-visa typically allows a stay of up to 30 days. Check your approved e-visa for the exact validity period. Overstaying can result in fines or deportation.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on August 7, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.