Somaliland has officially declared that visas and travel authorizations issued by Somalia are not considered valid for entry into its territory. This stringent measure underscores Somaliland's commitment to tightening control over its borders and reinforcing its national immigration sovereignty. The directive, which was issued on Sunday by the Department of Immigration and Border Control, clarifies a critical policy shift impacting foreign nationals intending to travel to the self-declared state.

According to the official decree, "Visas or travel authorizations issued by Somalia are not valid for entry into the Republic of Somaliland. Such documents will not be recognized at any Somaliland border point. Individuals presenting these documents will be refused entry and may be subject to lawful procedures in line with national immigration regulations." This statement leaves no ambiguity regarding the recognition of Somali-issued travel documents, ensuring that all entrants adhere to Somaliland's independent immigration protocols.

Foreign nationals planning to visit Somaliland now have clear pathways for obtaining the necessary entry permits. They can either secure a Visa on Arrival directly at two of Somaliland's major international airports: Hargeisa Egal International Airport (HGA) or Berbera International Airport (BBO). Alternatively, travelers can apply in advance for an Entry Permit Visa through any of the nearest Somaliland Embassies, Missions, or Consulates. These diplomatic and consular offices are located in various countries, including Kenya, Ethiopia, the United Kingdom, the United States, Taiwan, Turkey, and Djibouti, among other accredited international locations.

The directive further specifies that individuals holding a valid Somaliland Entry Permit Visa or a Somaliland Residence Visa are permitted to enter the country through any officially designated border crossing point. Such entries, however, remain subject to routine and normal immigration inspections, ensuring adherence to national security and border control standards.

This significant order, signed by Commissioner Mohamed Hussein Farah, took immediate effect upon its issuance. It operates under the authority of the Immigration and Border Control Law (Law No. 109/2025) and is stipulated to remain in force indefinitely, unless it is subsequently amended or superseded by a new directive from the competent authority. This legal backing solidifies the permanence and enforceability of the new immigration policy.

Somaliland's assertion of immigration control is deeply rooted in its history. The nation declared the restoration of its statehood from Somalia in 1991 and has since established and maintained its own distinct government, military, and currency. It exercises effective control over its entire territory. Widely recognized for its stability and democratic governance within the often-turbulent Horn of Africa region, Somaliland continues its diplomatic efforts to achieve full international recognition as an independent state, a goal underscored by such acts of sovereign control.