New Somali Passport Planned for 2026

Mogadishu, Somalia – 15 January 2026 The Immigration and Citizenship Agency (ICA) has announced that Somalia will introduce a new national passport in 2026, replacing the document currently in circulation. The new passport is being developed to incorporate enhanced security features and to align fully with the standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). These improvements are intended to make the document more resistant to forgery and tampering, and more readily accepted at borders around the world. Modern travel documents rely on a combination of physical and digital safeguards — such as machine-readable data, secure printing techniques and, increasingly, electronic chips that store the holder's information. Building these features to internationally recognised specifications allows border authorities in other countries to verify a document quickly and with confidence. The introduction of a new passport represents a significant milestone in the Agency's ongoing modernisation programme. Building on recent reforms — including the roll-out of biometric travel documents, the launch of the Electronic Visa (E-Visa/ETAS) system, and the digitisation of immigration services — the new passport underlines Somalia's determination to provide its citizens with a credible, globally respected travel document. For citizens, a more secure and widely accepted passport can mean a smoother experience when travelling, studying or doing business abroad, and greater confidence that their identity and nationality are properly recognised wherever they go. The Agency has indicated that further details on the design, features and issuance process will be shared with the public in due course. Current passports will remain valid, and citizens will be guided through any transition arrangements as the new document is introduced. Through this initiative, the Agency reaffirms its commitment to strengthening the identity and mobility of Somali citizens, and to positioning the Somali passport among the modern, secure travel documents of the world.