About Somalia
Somalia is a country located on the eastern coast of Africa, bordered by Ethiopia to the west, Djibouti to the northwest, and Kenya to the southwest. It has a long coastline along the Indian Ocean to the east. The country has a population of over 15 million people and its capital city is Mogadishu.
Somalia has a rich history and culture, with its people being known for their hospitality, traditional dances, and music. The country is also home to various ethnic groups, including the Somali, Bantu, and Arab communities.
Somalia has faced political instability and conflict for many years, with civil war and terrorism posing significant challenges to the country’s development and stability. However, the country has made some progress in recent years, with efforts to rebuild the government and improve security. Somalia is also known for its vibrant informal economy, which includes the trade of livestock, textiles, and other goods.
Somalia is home to several natural attractions, including beaches, wildlife reserves, and national parks. Some of the popular tourist destinations in Somalia include the Laas Geel cave paintings, the Mogadishu Cathedral, and Liido Beach in Mogadishu.
Somali cuisine is also known for its delicious and unique flavors, with dishes like bariis iskukaris (Somali-style rice), xalwo (Somali sweet), and sugar (pan-fried meat or vegetables) being popular among locals and visitors alike.
Procedure to apply for Somalia Visa
The procedure to apply for a Somalia visa typically involves the following steps:
- Gather the required documents: Check with the Somalia embassy or consulate in your country to find out what documents are required for your particular visa application. Typically, you will need a valid passport, visa application form, two passport-sized photos, proof of travel plans, and proof of funds for your stay in Somalia.
- Fill out the visa application form: Download and fill out the visa application form, making sure to provide accurate and complete information.
- You can apply online.
- Pay the visa fee: Pay the visa fee at the Somalia embassy or consulate or as directed by the embassy/consulate.
- Submit the visa application: Submit your completed visa application along with all required documents and the visa fee to the Somalia embassy or consulate. You may need to schedule an appointment for an interview and biometric data collection.
- Wait for the visa processing: Wait for the embassy or consulate to process your visa application. The processing time can vary depending on the type of visa and other factors.
- Collect your visa: Once your visa application is approved, you will need to collect your visa from the embassy or consulate. Make sure to check the validity period and other details on your visa.
- For more information visit the website.
Eligibility and Documents Required
The eligibility and documents required for a Somalia visa may vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for and your country of origin. However, some common eligibility and document requirements for a Somalia visa are as follows:
Eligibility:
- You must have a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining.
- You must have sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay in Somalia.
- You must have a valid reason for traveling to Somalia, such as business, tourism, or study.
Documents required:
- Completed visa application form: Fill out the visa application form with accurate and complete information.
- Passport: Provide your original passport with at least six months of validity remaining and two blank visa pages.
- Passport-sized photos: Provide two recent passport-sized photographs.
- Proof of travel plans: Provide a copy of your itinerary, including your flight and hotel reservations.
- Proof of funds: Provide evidence of sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay in Somalia, such as bank statements or a letter from your employer.
- Invitation letter (if applicable): Provide an invitation letter from a sponsor in Somalia if you are traveling for business or visiting friends or family.
- Medical certificate (if applicable): Provide a medical certificate if you are traveling for medical treatment.
- Police clearance certificate (if applicable): Provide a police clearance certificate if you are traveling for work or study.
What is the fee?
- The processing fee is 15 USD or Kenya Shillings 1650
Processing time of Somalia Visa
The processing time for a Somalia visa can take anywhere from 3 to 10 business days, although it can be longer depending on the complexity of your application and the volume of applications being processed at the embassy or consulate.
Types of Somalia Visa
1.Non official visit or tourism
- Download here complete and sign it.
- A minimum of 6 months valid Passport.
- Two recent passport-sized photographs in colour.
- Sixty United States Dollars ($60) for the visa fee (Non-Refundable).
- Reservation ticket for a round journey with dates and flight numbers indicating the point of entry and point of departure from Somalia.
- Invitation and Accommodation: A confirmed hotel reservation is required. If the applicant is staying with a friend or family, they must also present a formal invitation from the host and a copy of their passport or other government-issued identification.
2. Courtesy Visa/diplomatic passport holders
- Download here complete and sign it.
- A Note Verbal from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) of Somalia
- A minimum of 6 months valid Passport.
- Two recent passport-sized photographs in colour.
3. For business
- Download here complete and sign it.
- A minimum of 6 months valid Passport.
- Two recent passport-sized photographs in colour.
- Sixty United States Dollars ($60) for the visa fee (Non-Refundable).
- Reservation ticket for a round journey with dates and flight numbers indicating the point of entry and point of departure from Somalia.
- a formal letter of invitation or sponsorship from a recognized company, organization, or government agency (indicating the host address and contacts, guest name, passport number, the purpose of visit, and duration of stay).
4. For Employment
- Download here complete and sign it.
- A minimum of 6 months valid Passport.
- Two recent passport-sized photographs in color.
- Sixty United States Dollars ($60) for the visa fee (Non-Refundable).
- Reservation ticket for a round journey with dates and flight numbers indicating the point of entry and point of departure from Somalia.
- a formal letter of invitation or sponsorship from a recognized company, organization, or government agency (indicating the host address and contacts, guest name, passport number, the purpose of visit, and duration of stay).
- A personal interview with the applicant may be requested at any time.
5. For Contract
- Download here complete and sign it.
- A minimum of 6 months valid Passport.
- Two recent passport-sized photographs in color.
- Sixty United States Dollars ($60) for the visa fee (Non-Refundable).
- Reservation ticket for a round journey with dates and flight numbers indicating the point of entry and point of departure from Somalia.
- With a contract agreement from Somalia, an official letter from the pertinent Somali private or governmental agencies is provided.
Best Place to visit in Somalia
1. Mogadishu
The capital city of Somalia has a rich history and cultural heritage, with sites like the Mogadishu Cathedral, the National Museum of Somalia, and the Bakaara Market.
2. Hargeisa
This city is located in the northwestern region of Somalia and is known for its vibrant culture and stunning landscapes, including the Laas Geel cave paintings and the Daallo Mountains.
3. Kismayo
This port city is located in southern Somalia and is home to beautiful beaches and historic landmarks, including the Kismayo National Park and the Kismayo Port.