Hargeisa, Somaliland – Somaliland has announced it will continue offering Visa on Arrival at Hargeisa’s Egal International Airport, dismissing Somalia’s newly introduced electronic visa requirement. The decision underscores Somaliland’s determination to assert control over its borders while promoting tourism and economic growth.
In a statement issued by the Civil Aviation and Airports Authority, Somaliland stressed that only visas issued by its own Immigration Authority are valid for entry. The ministry directed airlines operating into Hargeisa to inform passengers of this policy, making clear that Mogadishu’s electronic visa system has no jurisdiction over Somaliland’s airports.
“The Visa on Arrival system is part of our commitment to open travel, regional connectivity, and economic development,” the authority said, adding that the approach will make it easier for visitors, investors, and humanitarian partners to access the region.
Somalia recently rolled out an electronic visa platform in an effort to standardize entry requirements across the country. However, Somaliland — which declared independence in 1991 but remains internationally unrecognized — has long maintained its own immigration controls and continues to reject directives from Mogadishu.
Analysts say the move reflects Somaliland’s strategy of reinforcing its de facto independence by managing cross-border movement, trade, and aviation rules. For travelers, the policy means they can still obtain visas upon arrival in Hargeisa without prior online approval, a measure welcomed by business and tourism stakeholders.
The announcement comes at a time when the Horn of Africa region is grappling with competing sovereignty claims, shifting alliances, and efforts to attract foreign investment. By keeping its borders more accessible, Somaliland is signaling both defiance of Mogadishu’s central authority and openness to global engagement.