Somalia entry requirements for Netherlands passport holders
Checked daily · Updated May 17, 2026·View sources
Visa on arrival
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
Dutch passport holders can get a visa on arrival in Somalia. This is the standard entry method for tourists and business travellers. As of 2026, the process is straightforward at major airports like Mogadishu (MGQ).
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Visa on arrival Visa on arrival | You get a visa on arrival at Mogadishu and Hargeisa airports. Pay in cash (USD) — $60 for single entry, $80 for multiple entry. Have a passport photo ready.Check MFA site | Required |
| Valid passport Passport validity | Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date. Airlines check this before boarding — no exceptions. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Return ticket | Immigration officers at Mogadishu ask for a confirmed onward ticket. If you don't have one, they may deny entry or send you to buy one at the airline counter. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel booking | Have a printed hotel booking or a letter of invitation from your host. Officers occasionally ask for it, especially if you arrive without a clear itinerary. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Sufficient funds | Carry at least $500 USD in cash or have a bank statement showing you can cover your stay. Somalia is a cash economy — credit cards rarely work. | Recommended |
Security situation
Somalia has a high risk of terrorism, kidnapping, and violent crime. The Dutch government advises against all travel to most regions. If you decide to go, use a reputable security company, avoid public gatherings, and stay in secure accommodation.
Cash is king
Credit cards are rarely accepted in Somalia. Bring enough US dollars in cash (new, crisp bills) for your entire stay. ATMs are scarce and unreliable.
Visa on arrival is straightforward
For most Dutch passport holders, the visa on arrival at Mogadishu Airport is a simple process. Have your documents ready, pay in cash, and you'll be through in 15–30 minutes.
What happens at the border
1
Arrive at Mogadishu Airport
After deplaning, follow signs to 'Visa on Arrival' or 'Immigration'. There's usually a dedicated counter. Have your passport, return ticket, and accommodation confirmation ready.
2
Fill out the visa application form
You'll be given a short form to complete. It asks for basic info: name, passport number, flight details, and address in Somalia. Fill it in while queuing.
3
Pay the visa fee
The visa on arrival costs around $50–$100 USD (cash only, exact change preferred). Pay at the counter. You'll receive a receipt.
4
Receive your visa sticker
The officer will stamp and stick the visa into your passport. Check the validity dates before walking away. The visa is usually valid for 30 days.
5
Proceed to passport control
Hand over your passport with the new visa. The officer will scan it and let you through. Collect your luggage and exit.
Download Somalia Entry Checklist
PDF · Netherlands 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, pre-arranged)
Max stay30 days, extendable 30 days
Validity3 months from issue
Cost$50 USD (approx. €46)
Apply at Somali embassy abroad; may allow longer stay than VoA.
Business Visa (single entry)
Max stay30 days, extendable 30 days
Validity3 months from issue
Cost$80 USD (approx. €73)
Requires invitation letter from Somali sponsor.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Visa on Arrival (single entry)Payable in cash (USD) at port of entry. | $60 USD (approx. €55) |
| Overstay fine per dayNo known maximum cap; avoid overstay. | $50 USD per day |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Incomplete documentation20%
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
Netherlands passport holders transiting through Somalia airports (e.g., Mogadishu) do not need a transit visa if they remain airside and have a confirmed onward ticket within 24 hours.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Transit hubsAden Adde International Airport (MGQ) · Egal International Airport (HGA)
Health & vaccines for Somalia
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired if arriving from a country with yellow fever transmission; certificate may be checked at entry.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidEssentialPolioRecommendedRabiesConsiderCholeraConsider
Health risks
MalariaHigh risk
Widespread throughout Somalia; prophylaxis strongly recommended.
DengueModerate risk
Occasional outbreaks, especially in urban areas.
CholeraModerate risk
Risk from contaminated food/water; practice strict hygiene.
Malaria risk: high
High risk nationwide; CDC recommends prophylaxis (e.g., atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline) and mosquito avoidance.
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 (HQ)
Mogadishu, Somalia (near Aden Adde International Airport)
Sun–Thu 08:00–16:00
Handles visa extensions and residency permits; bring passport, photos, and fee in USD.
Hargeisa
Somaliland Immigration Office
Hargeisa, Somaliland (near Egal International Airport)
Sun–Thu 08:00–15:00
Separate jurisdiction; for stays in Somaliland only.
Practical information for NL 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
Visa on arrival is available at Mogadishu Aden Adde International Airport (MGQ). Other airports like Hargeisa (HGA) may have different procedures — check with your airline or the nearest Somali embassy before travelling.
The fee is typically between $50 and $100 USD. Bring exact cash in US dollars — no change is given. Credit cards are not accepted.
Usually 30 days from the date of issue. Check the sticker before leaving the counter. Extensions are possible but not guaranteed — you'd need to visit the immigration office in Mogadishu.
Extensions are theoretically possible but not straightforward. You'd need to go to the Immigration Department in Mogadishu with your passport, a letter explaining why, and pay a fee. It's not guaranteed.
Somalia requires a yellow fever vaccination if you're arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever. Even if not required, it's recommended. Bring your International Certificate of Vaccination (yellow card) just in case.
The Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs advises against all travel to most parts of Somalia due to security risks. If you do travel, get comprehensive travel insurance that covers security evacuation. Check the latest travel advisory before booking.
Overstaying can result in fines, detention, or a ban on re-entry. If you need to stay longer, apply for an extension before your visa expires. The fine is typically around $50–$100 USD per day of overstay.
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.