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Hiiraan Online Today from Hiiraan Online: Somali Music advertisements Puntland launches its own visa system, rejecting federal government’s E-Visa FacebookFacebook messengerTwitterWhatsAppLinkedInTelegramEmail Wednesday November 5, 2025 Garowe (HO) — Puntland regional state has implemented a self-imposed visa system, charging travelers $60, following the federal government’s introduction of a new electronic visa (E-Visa) aimed at modernizing immigration procedures. Officials at the Puntland Immigration Agency said the region operates its own visa system, known as VISO, which functions independently of the federal government in Mogadishu. The move reflects a stance of political autonomy similar to that of Somaliland, which earlier directed international airlines to disregard the federal government’s electronic visa requirements. Somaliland had previously warned that airlines failing to comply with its directives would be banned from using its airports or airspace. As a result, major carriers such as Ethiopian Airlines and Flydubai have abandoned the federal e-visa system to continue operating in the region. The rollout of Somalia’s federal e-visa system was intended to align the country with others adopting digital immigration systems as part of broader efforts to modernize governance and enhance financial accountability. However, analysts note that the lack of consultation with federal member states has fueled confusion and political friction. Independent experts warn that without a unified national framework for managing visas and air traffic, the dispute could disrupt the movement of Somalis within and outside the country and undermine efforts to strengthen national unity and cooperation. Opinion| Privacy Policy|Sports|Somali Music|Somali Map All Rights Reserved Copyright. © 1999-2025, www.hiiraan.com
