EU Proposes New Visa Restrictions for Somalia

New Visa Rules: The EU Commission has proposed stricter visa rules for Somali nationals.

Objective: The goal is to increase cooperation in readmitting Somali nationals who are in the EU without proper documentation.

Pending Approval: The proposal awaits approval by the EU Council.

Single-Entry Visas: Somali nationals may only receive single-entry visas.

Increased Fees: Visa fees for Somali applicants will be higher.

Extended Processing Times: Visa application processing will extend from 15 to 45 days.

Document Submission: The EU may suspend some regulations requiring the submission of supporting documents for visa applications.

EU Commission's Statement The Commission stated, "Despite the steps taken so far by the EU and its Member States to improve readmission cooperation and taking into account the EU's overall relations with Somalia, it is considered that Somalia's cooperation with the EU on readmission is not sufficient and that action is needed."

Context and Strategy

Managing Migration This initiative is part of the EU's broader strategy to manage irregular migration and ensure cooperation on readmission.

Other Countries: Similar measures have been implemented against Ethiopia and The Gambia. For instance, the EU stopped issuing multiple-entry Schengen visas to Ethiopians and initially increased visa fees for Gambian nationals, although the fee increase was revoked in April 2024. Other measures against The Gambia remain in place.

Next Steps The Commission will soon present the proposal to the EU Council, allowing member states to decide on the next steps.

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