Bad news for South African passport holders
Somalia has become the latest country to change its entry requirements, and the update is not entirely good news for South African passport holders.
The Immigration and Citizenship Agency of Somalia has officially launched its eVisa service, which took effect on 1 September 2025.
This replaces the previous visa-on-arrival (VoA) system, meaning travellers must now apply for permission before setting foot in the country.
According to Isxaaq Hassan Takow, Director of the Department of Foreign Affairs, the online platform has been in development for some time.
He explained that the new system was designed to simplify visa applications by making them accessible to travellers anywhere in the world, with approvals delivered quickly and efficiently.
Specially trained officers have been assigned to oversee the process to ensure smooth operations.
For many travellers, including South Africans, the switch marks a significant change. Under the old system, those with South African passports could make last-minute travel plans, complete the visa process at the airport or border, and gain entry without much pre-planning.
The eVisa introduces a pre-travel requirement that removes this flexibility, potentially creating problems for individuals who need to travel at short notice for business or other urgent matters.
The application process itself also carries some risks. With the visa-on-arrival system, travellers could resolve issues face-to-face upon arrival if there was any problem.
With the new digital process, there may be fewer options to address complications quickly. A denied eVisa application means the traveller cannot board their flight, and the non-refundable application fee is forfeited.
For South Africans travelling to Somalia, this adds a layer of uncertainty and administrative burden that was previously absent.
Despite these drawbacks, Somali officials emphasised the benefits of the change.
Minister of Interior Security Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail Fartaag explained that the new system will bolster national security, enhance monitoring of travellers, increase transparency, and ensure that visa-related revenues go directly into the Ministry of Finance.
He added that starting 1 September, all foreign visitors must use the new system, unless they fall into exempt categories, such as diplomats, residents, holders of multiple-entry visas, UNLP passport holders, or nationals of countries with visa-free agreements.
Not the only country to update its requirements for foreign visitors
Authorities highlight that efficiency will also improve. Visa approvals are expected to be processed within one to three days, and all payments are made securely online.
The system automatically screens applicants in advance, providing the government with information on who is entering and why at least 24 hours before arrival.
This, officials argue, will strengthen Somalia’s ability to manage its borders and reduce the risk of fraudulent entry.
Director General Mustafa Duhulow described the launch as a historic step for Somalia, aligning the country with global digital immigration practices.
He noted that the eVisa will not only enhance immigration services but also strengthen national security, protect sensitive data, and create opportunities to improve the economy and overall service delivery.
Somalia is not the only country introducing updates that affect South African travellers. Immigration authorities in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have also added a new requirement for visa applicants.
All travellers, regardless of nationality, must now submit a copy of their passport’s external cover page along with the usual documents.
This cover page (the very first page of a passport) displays the country’s name, emblem, issuing authority, and other official markings.
It is different from the inside data page, which contains the traveller’s photo and personal details. The rule applies uniformly, regardless of whether you are applying for a tourist visa, a business visa, or a residency-related entry permit.
UAE officials stated that the measure is aimed at enhancing security checks, strengthening identity verification, and minimising processing errors.
By including the cover page, authorities can more easily cross-check national details and detect mismatched or fraudulent applications.
For South African travellers, however, this is another small but time-consuming administrative requirement when applying for foreign visas.
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