Somalia Visa RequirementsFor United Kingdom passport holders
While Somalia technically offers a visa on arrival for British passport holders, the UK government advises against all travel to Somalia due to extreme security risks.
United Kingdom passport holders can obtain a Visa on Arrival at Somalia ports of entry.
The FCDO advises against all travel to Somalia. If you are travelling on official or humanitarian business despite the advice, consult your organisation's security team. A visa on arrival costs approximately $60 USD payable in cash. Contact the Embassy of Somalia in London for current requirements.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
United Kingdom to Somalia: What You Need to Know
Somalia has been affected by ongoing armed conflict, terrorism, and piracy for decades. The FCDO advises against all travel to Somalia. A visa on arrival is available in principle at Mogadishu Aden Adde International Airport for approximately $60 USD, but this is largely irrelevant given the security situation.
Practical Tips
The FCDO advises against all travel to Somalia including Mogadishu. Kidnapping, terrorist attacks, and violent crime are serious risks. British consular assistance is extremely limited. The semi-autonomous regions of Somaliland and Puntland have separate security environments but remain dangerous. Do not travel without professional security support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe for UK citizens to travel to Somalia?
No. The FCDO advises against all travel to Somalia due to terrorism, armed conflict, kidnapping, and piracy. This applies to all parts of Somalia including Mogadishu, Somaliland, and Puntland.
Can UK citizens get a visa for Somalia?
A visa on arrival is technically available at Mogadishu airport for approximately $60 USD. However, given the FCDO's advice against all travel, obtaining this visa is strongly discouraged. If you must travel for official or humanitarian purposes, contact the Embassy of Somalia in advance.
What consular assistance is available in Somalia for UK citizens?
The FCDO has very limited ability to provide consular assistance in Somalia. There is no permanent British Embassy in Mogadishu. In an emergency, contact the nearest British High Commission or Embassy, though response capabilities on the ground are severely restricted.
Is Somaliland safer than the rest of Somalia?
Somaliland, the self-declared autonomous region in northwestern Somalia, is generally considered more stable than southern Somalia and Mogadishu. However, the FCDO still advises against all travel to Somaliland. If you travel against this advice, security conditions can change rapidly.