Somalia Overhauls Immigration Services, Halves Passport Processing Times

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Somalia’s Immigration and Citizenship Agency (ICA) has announced sweeping reforms aimed at cutting red tape and speeding up passport and visa services, in a move the government says will improve efficiency and rebuild public trust.

The agency’s Director General, Mustafa Sheikh Cali Dhuxulow, signed off on the new procedures at a ceremony in Mogadishu attended by senior officials, including deputy directors and departmental heads.

Under the reforms, the processing time for new Somali passports has been cut from 15 days to 7, while renewals or replacements for lost or expired passports will now take just 4 days, down from 10.

“These changes are part of a broader transformation agenda,” Dhuxulow said, adding that citizens deserve timely, transparent, and dignified services. He said the goal is to embed accountability and streamline operations across all departments.

The reforms cover the full range of the ICA’s functions, including visa and residency permits, border control, and internal governance.

Somalia has been under pressure to modernize key state institutions as it continues efforts to stabilize the country and improve public services following decades of conflict and administrative fragility.