GAROWE, Somalia — Somali citizens arriving in Puntland’s capital, Garowe, have been forced to pay visa fees twice due to political disagreements.
Puntland authorities refused to recognize Somalia’s new federal electronic visa system, launched on Sept. 1, creating confusion and frustration among returning Somali travelers.
Many passengers had already paid $64 online for a federal e-visa, but were told to pay an additional $60 upon arrival in Garowe.
Immigration officers at Garowe Airport rejected the federal documents, resulting in long lines and complaints of unfair treatment and double charges from citizens.
“I had a valid federal e-visa but was forced to pay again,” said traveler Mohamed Keynaan. “It felt like extortion.”
Keynaan described the situation as “unconstitutional” and “exploitation,” noting families were especially burdened by unexpected costs and delays at the airport.
Eyewitnesses said some families paid hundreds of dollars just to exit the airport, with children and elderly also caught in the confusion.
“This is no way to treat citizens. It’s not how you build a society,” Keynaan added, expressing anger shared by many travelers.
The core of the dispute is a power struggle. Somalia’s constitution grants immigration authority to the federal government, not individual regional states.
By rejecting the federal system, Puntland created a separate visa process, undermining federal authority and adding financial pressure on Somali citizens.
The federal Immigration and Citizenship Agency (Spraised the e-visa system as a “historic step,” promising modernization, security, and efficient revenue collection.
“This aligns Somalia with international standards,” said Director General Mustafe Duxulow. Officials stressed all visitors must apply online before entering Somalia.
Puntland, however, remains defiant as officials continue charging $60 upon arrival, challenging the centralized immigration authority.
For most travelers, politics don’t matter. They want fair treatment and to avoid unnecessary financial hardship during their journeys.
“This isn’t about politics,” Keynaan said. “It’s about citizens’ rights and families unfairly charged because of political conflict.”
Most international passengers arriving in Garowe are Puntland natives returning home, often visiting relatives or handling personal and family affairs.
Instead of benefiting from the federal e-visa, they are penalized—forced to pay both federal and regional visa fees without explanation.
Many view this as a tax on their patriotism as families saved for months only to face surprise charges and mistreatment.
Puntland’s stance risks alienating travelers returning home to the region. This could also escalate political tensions with the federal government in Mogadishu.