Somalia Visa Requirements
For 🇬🇧 United Kingdom passport holders
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond stay
Blank Pages
At least 1 page required
Multiple Entry
Single entry
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Travel Essentials
Health & Safety
Safety Rating
Vaccinations
Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Malaria prophylaxis, Meningitis, Rabies, Cholera
Tap Water
Bottled water recommended
Safety Tips
Somalia faces extreme security challenges including Al-Shabaab terrorism, clan violence, kidnapping, piracy, and lack of effective government control in many areas. Most foreign governments advise against all travel. Somaliland (self-declared independent) is notably safer and some adventurous tourists visit. Even in Somaliland, caution is essential.
Money & Costs
Currency
S Somali Shilling (SOS)
Daily Budget (USD)
Budget: $80 · Mid: $150 · Luxury: $300+
Tipping
Not a normal consideration given the context.
Practical Info
Power
Type C, 220V 50Hz
Driving
Right side
Emergency
No reliable emergency services in most areas.
Getting There
Main Airports
Mogadishu (MGQ) · Hargeisa (HGA)
Culture & Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
Somalia's climate varies by region. The least dangerous weather periods would be December to March (jilaal dry season). However, security, not weather, is the primary consideration. Somaliland in the north has a cooler highland climate.
Cultural Notes
Somali culture is based on clan identity, pastoralism, and Islam. Poetry is highly valued in this oral tradition society. The Somalis have a strong sense of national identity despite political fragmentation. Traditional crafts include weaving and woodwork. The ancient port city of Mogadishu was once a prosperous trading hub.
Insider Tips
Somali and Arabic are official languages. The Somali Shilling is the currency; USD is widely used. The only relatively safe tourism exists in Somaliland, which has its own visa and is functionally separate. Any travel requires extensive security arrangements. Mobile money (Zaad/EVC) is ubiquitous.