The Somali Immigration and Citizenship Authority (SICA) has announced that it will issue a new passport in 2026, different from the one currently used by Somali citizens.
The Director of the Somali Immigration and Citizenship Authority, Mustaf Dhuxulow, made the announcement at an event where the agency presented its 2025 Annual Performance Report. The event’s theme was: “Secure Borders, Safe Somalia / Controlling Our Borders – Protecting Our People.”
The report highlighted the agency’s significant progress in securing borders, modernizing immigration services, and implementing digital transformation based on transparency, accountability, and quality service. It also discussed legal, regulatory, and institutional reforms in line with the HSJ’s strategic plan (2025–2029).
According to the report, by 2025, the Immigration and Nationality Authority had achieved success in implementing the Electronic Travel Authorization System (e-TAS), modernizing passports in line with ICAO standards, strengthening the fight against smuggling and migration-related crimes, and developing data collection, data protection, and performance management systems.
The report also highlighted the role of the HSJ Academy in training and upgrading personnel, developing border infrastructure and service centers, and national, regional and international cooperation to ensure sustainable border security.
“When we came to office, we immediately took the initiative to stop the constant changes made to passports and their data. Although we faced challenges, embassies and international organizations welcomed our move. There were many people who changed their names and dates of birth, which could have led to a loss of trust in us,” said Director Mustafa.
“On January 27 of this year, we signed an agreement with Interpol, in cooperation with other government agencies, which allowed us to regain international trust,” he added.
For his part, the Minister of Security of the Federal Government of Somalia, Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail (Farataag), said that today Mogadishu is in a better security situation than it has ever been. He noted that the continuous efforts of the security agencies have borne fruit, and the Khawarij group has been eliminated from many areas of the country.
“The government is very pleased with the achievements and performance of the agency tonight. We commend the Immigration Authority for its role in the security of the country, especially in ensuring border security,” said Minister Farataag.
Similarly, the Minister of Education, Farah Sheikh Abdulqadir, said that he is closely following the work of the agency, as they have extensive cooperation.
“We know that the director of the agency has withstood many challenges and pressures, which has resulted in the progress achieved today by the Immigration Authority and the increase in confidence, especially in the quality of the Somali passport,” said Minister Farah.
The minister added that the agency has implemented procedures that have enhanced the equality of citizens and their right to obtain a passport.
“I commend the Immigration Authority for its fight against the misuse of passports, which is why the world has once again trusted us,” he concluded.
