Somalia
A Horn of Africa nation with a rich history, diverse landscapes, and a blend of Somali and Arabic cultures.
Overview
Somalia, located on the Horn of Africa, features contrasting port cities and interior regions. Mogadishu and Hargeisa are significant urban centers, where Somali and Arabic are widely spoken.
At a glance
Languages
- Arabic(Official)
- Somali(Official)
Population11,031,386
CurrencySomali Shilling (SOS)
1 SOS = 0.001750 USD
1 USD = 571.45 SOS
Popular places
Somalia
Entry requirements
Visa and residency reference data is available for Business Visitor, Tourist / Visa Waiver, Temporary Residence, and 3 more.
Business Visitor
- Business Permit
ICA-listed business permit entry category for foreign nationals seeking authorized entry into Somalia.
Tourist / Visa Waiver
- Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)
Electronic Travel Authorization system established in line with Ministry of Foreign Affairs and ICA directives for travelers to obtain authorization before travel to Somalia.
- Tourist Visa
ICA-listed tourist visa entry category for foreign nationals seeking entry into the Federal Republic of Somalia.
Temporary Residence
- Residence Permit
ICA-listed residence permit category for foreign nationals who need an ICA permit stamp, letter, or residential sticker authorizing entry or stay.
Languages
- Arabic(Official)
- Somali(Official)
Sources
- Country language reference
Safety
3 source-backed travel advisories are available for Somalia.
Canada
Avoid all travel
Advisory effective · Verified
Avoid all travel to Somalia due to the volatile security situation and the high threat of domestic terrorism.If you choose to travel to Somalia despite this advisory, be aware that you may have difficulty leaving the country should the situation deteriorate suddenly.
United Kingdom
FCDO advises against all travel; FCDO advises against all but essential travel
Advisory effective · Verified
Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). Parts of Somalia, including Somaliland. FCDO advises against all travel to Somalia, including Somaliland, except for the regions of Awdal, Maroodijeh, and Sahil. FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the regions of Awdal, Maroodijeh, and Sahil. This is due to the threat from terrorist groups and continuing violence. If you choose to remain in Somalia, you do so at your own risk. You should have a personal emergency plan that does not rely on the UK government. Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel. There has recently been an increase in fighting between al-Shabaab and the Somali Government close to the capital Mogadishu. Please see the
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