EU Tightens Visa Rules for Somali Nationals

The European Union announced on June 25, 2026 that it will temporarily restrict visa provisions for Somali nationals. Under the new measures, applicants will no longer receive multiple‑entry visas, the standard processing period has been extended from 15 to 45 days, and the waiver of evidence requirements and visa fee for diplomatic passport holders has been revoked.

The EU cited a recent assessment indicating that Somalia has not provided sufficient cooperation on the return of its citizens who have been denied the right to stay in Europe. The temporary restrictions are intended to remain in place until the European Commission deems Somalia’s cooperation adequate.

Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud responded by emphasizing that his government will readmit genuine nationals but warned that many returnees lack clear Somali identity. He noted that some individuals claim Somali nationality to obtain asylum in Europe, only to be later found unfamiliar with the language or culture. The president pledged that the country will help verify such cases and return those who are not Somali.

EU Migration Commissioner Magnus Brunner reiterated that member states must meet their readmission commitments, stating that “otherwise, there can be consequences.” The bloc has previously used similar visa curbs as a policy tool, applying them to the Gambia in 2021 and to Ethiopia in 2024, the latter lifted after improved cooperation.

These restrictions add to a series of setbacks for Somali travelers, including the United States’ 2025 travel ban covering citizens of a dozen countries. The policy has already impacted high‑profile individuals, such as African referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan, who was denied entry to the U.S. despite holding a valid visa.

By linking visa issuance to deportation compliance, the EU aims to strengthen its broader migration management strategy, encouraging source countries to collaborate more closely on readmission processes and reduce irregular migration flows toward Europe.