Somalia has officially launched a new electronic visa (e-visa) system, marking a significant milestone in its digital transformation journey. The new e-visa platform, which officially launched on Sunday, August 24, 2025, allows international travelers to conveniently apply for visas online via Somalia’s official government portal: www.evisa.gov.so. Designed to simplify the application process, the system also incorporates advanced digital screening tools to enhance national security and ensure more efficient border management.
Developed in collaboration with the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), the e-visa portal enables applicants to complete the entire visa process online, eliminating the need for physical visits to embassies or consulates. This streamlined approach is expected to make travel to Somalia more accessible for tourists, business professionals, and members of the Somali diaspora, while also reinforcing the country’s border management capabilities.
At the official launch event in Mogadishu, Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre emphasized the strategic importance of the initiative. “With this system, Somalia opens its doors to the world with confidence and security,” he stated, highlighting the government’s commitment to transparency, innovation, and global engagement.
The e-visa rollout is part of a broader push by Somalia to digitize public services and financial systems. In July 2025, the Central Bank of Somalia introduced SOMQR, a unified QR code standard aimed at harmonizing mobile payments across financial institutions. Just a month earlier, the country unveiled its first NFC-enabled wearable payment device, allowing users to make contactless transactions with a simple tap, an unprecedented innovation in the region.
Together, these initiatives reflect Somalia’s growing ambition to build an integrated digital infrastructure that supports economic growth, financial inclusion, and global connectivity. The e-visa system extends this digital-first approach into the realm of travel and immigration, offering a more predictable and efficient experience for visitors while maintaining robust security protocols.
Authorities expect the platform to attract increased interest from investors, entrepreneurs, and international partners, positioning Somalia as a forward-looking destination in the Horn of Africa. The move also signals a shift from reactive to proactive border management, one that balances openness with control, and innovation with safety.
