Monday June 12, 2023
London (HOL) - A recent situation has sparked confusion and frustration among British citizens of Somali origin, who are finding their travel plans to their homeland of Somalia unexpectedly complicated. An incident involving a London-based Somali family attempting to travel to Mogadishu has brought these issues to light. The family of six was reportedly denied boarding passes at London Heathrow by Qatar Airways, citing the lack of a proof letter from the Somali embassy in the UK.
This new requirement, reportedly carrying a cost of £100, along with an additional $60 visa fee upon arrival in Mogadishu, has not only raised concerns but also added a significant financial burden for individuals planning to visit Somalia. The fact that European passports that state Somalia as the place of birth don't need this letter has led to further confusion.
This dilemma triggered a series of social media exchanges, resulting in the Somali Embassy in the UK issuing
an official response.
"Since the current issue relates to dual National Somalis or ethnic Somalis who are traveling with foreign passports, all airlines with international flights originating from Europe and America regions have been instructed to remove the restrictions (if any) and allow each and every Somali - adult and minor - to board without any visa restrictions. Visa is issued on arrival as always, and there are no changes to that policy."
According to the Embassy's Twitter account, no such document is required for travel to Somalia, leading to a direct contradiction with the airlines' new policy.
Qatar Airways, among other airlines, has reportedly been demanding these proof letters from Somali travellers since mid-April. The lack of communication and clarity from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) about these travel requirements has intensified frustration among prospective travellers.
Amid the confusion, the Somali Embassy in the UK has reached out to both UK and Somali authorities to clarify requirements and facilitate travel for families affected by this situation. However, whether this proof letter policy is an airline initiative or a misunderstanding of existing travel requirements remains to be seen.
The current situation underscores the need for more transparent communication among embassies, airlines, and travellers. The Somali Embassy encourages travellers to contact them for assistance and confirms that visa issuance will continue on arrival as per usual practice.