Somalia entry requirements for Japan passport holders
Checked daily · Updated May 17, 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
Japanese passport holders must get an eVisa before traveling to Somalia. The application is online only. As of 2026, this is the sole visa option for tourism or business visits.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| eVisa application Apply before travel | You need an eVisa to enter Somalia. Apply through the official Somalia Ministry of Foreign Affairs portal at www.mfa.gov.so. Processing takes a few business days — do not book flights until you have the approval email.Apply for eVisa | Required |
| Valid passport Must cover entire stay | Your passport must be valid for the full duration of your stay in Somalia. Airlines at departure may enforce a 6-month validity rule — check with your carrier before flying. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Proof of departure | Immigration officers in Mogadishu routinely ask for a return or onward ticket. Have a printed copy or a digital booking confirmation ready on your phone. | Recommended |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel booking or host letter | Carry a hotel reservation or a letter from your host in Somalia. Officers may ask where you are staying, especially if you arrive without a pre-booked hotel. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Cash or bank statement | Have at least $500 USD in cash or a recent bank statement showing sufficient funds. Somalia is a cash-based economy — credit cards are rarely accepted outside major hotels. | Recommended |
Security situation
Somalia has a high risk of terrorism, kidnapping, and armed conflict. Only travel if absolutely necessary, and always use a reputable local guide or security service. Register with your embassy on arrival.
eVisa is the only option
There is no visa on arrival or visa-free entry for Japanese passport holders. Do not attempt to board a flight without an approved eVisa — you will be turned away.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for the eVisa online
Go to the official Somali eVisa portal (if available) or use a trusted visa service. Fill in your details, upload a passport photo and a scan of your passport bio page. Pay the fee (cost varies, typically around $50-80 USD). Wait for approval — processing can take a few days to a week.
2
Pack your documents
Print or save on your phone: the eVisa approval email, your passport, return ticket, and hotel booking. Keep them in an easily accessible folder or phone album.
3
Arrive at the airport in Somalia
At Mogadishu Aden Adde International Airport (or other entry points), go to the immigration counter. Hand over your passport and eVisa approval. They may ask for your return ticket and hotel address. Answer clearly. You'll get an entry stamp.
4
Collect your luggage and exit
After immigration, pick up your bags from the carousel. There may be a customs check — declare any large amounts of cash or restricted items. Then you're free to leave.
Download Somalia Entry Checklist
PDF · Japan Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated May 17, 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. 7,500 JPY)
Standard eVisa for tourism.
Tourist visa (multiple entry)
Max stay30 days per entry
Validity6 months from issue
Cost$70 USD (approx. 10,500 JPY)
For frequent travelers.
Business visa
Max stay30 days
Validity3 months
Cost$80 USD (approx. 12,000 JPY)
Requires invitation letter from Somali company.
work visa
Work Permit
1 year, renewable
~$200 USD (approx. 30,000 JPY)
For those with a job offer from a Somali employer. Requires employer sponsorship and contract.
investor visa
Investor Visa
2 years, renewable
~$500 USD (approx. 75,000 JPY)
For individuals investing a minimum of $50,000 USD in a Somali business. Requires proof of investment.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| eVisa (single entry)Standard tourist eVisa fee for Japan passport holders. | $50 USD (approx. 7,500 JPY) |
| eVisa (multiple entry)Allows multiple entries within validity period. | $70 USD (approx. 10,500 JPY) |
| Overstay fine per dayMaximum cap of $500 USD (approx. 75,000 JPY). | $20 USD per day (approx. 3,000 JPY) |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Incomplete application20%
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
Japan passport holders transiting through Somalia airports do not need a transit visa if staying airside and not passing through immigration.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
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 yellow fever transmission.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidEssentialPolioRecommendedRabiesConsiderMeningococcalRecommended
Health risks
MalariaHigh risk
High risk throughout the country, especially in rural areas.
Dengue FeverModerate risk
Occasional outbreaks, especially during rainy season.
CholeraModerate risk
Risk from contaminated food and water.
Malaria risk: high
Prophylaxis recommended for all travelers. Risk is high nationwide, especially in rural areas.
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
Sun–Thu 08:00–16:00
Main office for visa extensions and permits. Bring passport, photos, and fee.
Hargeisa
Somaliland Immigration Office
Hargeisa, Somaliland
Sun–Thu 08:00–15:00
For visa matters in Somaliland region.
Practical information for JP 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 = 571.31 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
No. As of 2026, Somalia does not offer visa on arrival for Japanese passport holders. You must get an eVisa before you travel.
Processing typically takes 3–7 business days. Apply at least two weeks before your trip to be safe. There is no expedited option.
The fee is usually between $50 and $80 USD, depending on the visa type and processing service. Pay online with a credit or debit card.
No. The eVisa is not extendable. You must leave before it expires. If you need to stay longer, you'd have to apply for a new visa from outside the country.
You will be denied entry. Renew your passport before applying for the eVisa. The 6-month validity is counted from your date of arrival in Somalia.
Somalia requires a yellow fever vaccination certificate if you are arriving from a country with yellow fever risk. Check with your doctor before travel.
Travel to Somalia carries significant security risks. Check your government's travel advisory before booking. Many travellers only visit secure areas like Mogadishu with local guides.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on May 17, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.