Business & investor visas
Somali Business eVisa (eTAS)
An electronic authorisation for foreign nationals making short business trips and permitted paid engagements in Somalia, applied for online before travelling.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Important information
Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Somalia government website before you apply.
- Official name
- Somalia eVisa / eTAS (business / permitted paid engagement)
- Route type
- Electronic travel authorisation (eVisa)
- Entries
- Single or multiple depending on the type issued
- Entry window
- Entry must take place within 180 days of the stated arrival date
- Passport validity
- At least 6 months beyond arrival
- Maximum stay
- Up to 90 days
- Number of entries
- Single entry
- Validity
- Enter within 180 days of the approval date
- Where to apply
- Online at etas.gov.so (Immigration and Citizenship Agency)
- Cost
- Fee payable online during application
- Amount is set by the ICA.
Who it is for
- Foreign nationals travelling to Somalia for business meetings or a permitted paid engagement
How to apply
Apply online through the ICA eVisa/eTAS portal, select the business category, upload documents and pay before travelling.
Requirements
- You must hold a passport valid for at least six months from your date of entry into Somalia.
- You must apply for and be approved for the eTAS online before you travel.
- Your purpose of travel must be permitted business activity — meetings, negotiations or similar — rather than taking up employment.
- You may be asked for a letter of invitation from a company or host in Somalia.
- Entry must take place within 180 days of the approval date; the eTAS is a single-entry permit allowing a stay of up to 90 days.
Documents you may need
- Passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
- Recent passport-style photograph.
- Letter of invitation from the host company or organisation in Somalia, where requested.
- Details of the business to be conducted and your host's contact information.
- Payment method for the online fee.
Frequently asked questions
No. The business category covers permitted business activity such as meetings and negotiations. Taking up paid employment is a separate purpose — check the work/employment route and confirm requirements with the ICA.
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.