EU Council Temporarily Restricts Visa Provisions for Somali Nationals - Statement

The decision follows an assessment by the European Commission, which concluded that Somalia has not made adequate progress in cooperating with EU member states on the return and readmission of its nationals. Under the temporary measures, EU member states will no longer be permitted to issue multiple-entry visas to Somali nationals. Authorities will also no longer be able to waive documentation requirements for visa applicants from Somalia or exempt holders of diplomatic and service passports from paying visa fees. In addition, the standard processing time for visa applications submitted by Somali nationals will increase from 15 calendar days to 45 calendar days. The Council stated that the restrictions are temporary and are intended to encourage Somalia to strengthen its cooperation on readmission procedures. No specific end date has been announced, and the European Commission will continue to monitor developments and assess any progress made by Somali authorities. The measures are part of the European Union's visa policy framework, which allows for adjustments to visa procedures when cooperation on migration and readmission is considered insufficient.