Puntland has implemented a self-imposed visa system, charging travelers $60. This is very close to the $64 fee charged for the electronic visa issued by the federal government of Somalia.
Officials at the Puntland immigration agency said Puntland operates its own visa system (VISO) that is independent of the federal government in Mogadishu.
The decision reflects a political independence similar to that adopted by Somaliland, which previously ordered international airlines to ignore federal electronic visa requirements.
Somaliland has previously warned that airlines that do not comply with its directives will be banned from using its airports or airspace. As a result, Ethiopian Airlines and Flydubai have since abandoned the federal electronic visa system, allowing them to continue operating.
Meanwhile, the federal government of Somalia insists that it is the sole legally responsible body for visa and air traffic management throughout the country. The government has warned airlines that violate its rules that they will face legal penalties, in accordance with domestic and international aviation laws.
Analysts say the federal e-visa system was designed to increase revenue and streamline the immigration system, but the lack of consultation with regional governments has led to growing confusion and political conflict.
Independent experts warn that without a unified approach to managing visas and airspace in the country, the conflict could affect the movement of Somalis both internally and externally, and could hinder efforts to strengthen national unity and solidarity.
Analysts say the federal e-visa system was designed to increase revenue and streamline the immigration system, but the lack of consultation with regional governments has led to growing confusion and political conflict.
Independent experts warn that without a unified approach to managing visas and airspace in the country, the conflict could affect the movement of Somalis both internally and externally, and could hinder efforts to strengthen national unity and solidarity.
