SomaliaResidence

Somalia residence and work permits

Residence permit and work permit (ICA)

In short

Foreign nationals who want to live, work or invest in Somalia apply to the Immigration and Citizenship Agency for a residence permit. The ICA issues temporary and permanent residence permits, work-based residency and renewals, and separately processes work permits for foreigners employed in Somalia. Applicants need a valid passport and entry visa, an employer or sponsor letter where applicable, and the application form.

checked 24 October 2026

Key facts

Validity
Temporary and permanent permits; renewals available
Work
Employment requires a work permit issued by the ICA
Path to permanent residence
The ICA issues permanent residence permits
Where to apply
In Somalia, after entering on a visa

Who needs a residence permit

A residence permit is for foreign nationals who wish to live, work or invest in Somalia beyond a visit. The ICA processes applications in line with Somali law and national development goals, and holders of a residence permit are exempt from the eTAS when they travel back to Somalia.

Permit categories

The ICA lists temporary and permanent residence permits, work-based residency processing and permit renewals. For employment it separately processes and issues work permits, handles renewals and amendments and verifies employer and employment details, with the stated aim of supporting lawful employment while protecting the domestic labour market.

Requirements

For a residence permit the ICA asks for a valid passport with an entry visa, a letter from the employer or sponsor where applicable, and a completed application form. The ICA has not yet published the requirements for work permits and asks applicants to contact it for current guidance.

Required documents

Identity

  • Valid passport

Travel

  • Valid Somali entry visa

Other

  • Completed ICA application form

Supporting documents (where they apply)

Work

  • Letter from employer or sponsor, where applicable

Where to apply

Applications are handled by the Immigration and Citizenship Agency, headquartered at Aden Abdulle International Airport in Mogadishu. It can be reached at info@immigration.gov.so and +252 61 0555001 or +252 61 446 5000, Saturday to Thursday from 8:00 to 16:00.

How to apply, step by step

  1. Enter Somalia on a valid visa or eTAS for your first trip.
  2. Obtain an employer or sponsor letter if your stay is based on work or sponsorship.
  3. Complete the ICA application form and submit it with your passport.
  4. If you will be employed, ask the ICA about the work permit requirements.
  5. Renew the permit with the ICA before it expires.

Frequently asked questions

Does Somalia issue permanent residence?

Yes. The ICA lists both temporary and permanent residence permits among its services.

Is a work permit separate from the residence permit?

Yes. The ICA processes work permits for foreigners employed in Somalia as a separate service, alongside work-based residency.

Where are the work permit requirements published?

They have not yet been published. The ICA asks applicants to contact it directly for current guidance.

Official sources

Summarised from the official sources above. Rules, fees and processing times change: confirm with the embassy or the official portal before you apply.

Other visa types for Somalia

Online travel permits

  • e-Visa Maximum stay: As approved on the eTAS; dates are shown on the authorisation

Protection

Somalia visa guide