Step 2: Secure Your Somaliland Letter of Invitation (LOI)

Written By Mukhtar Jes

Once you land at Egal International Airport (HGA), the Somalia e-visa is not recognized by local authorities. Instead, Somaliland Immigration requires a Letter of Invitation (LOI).

Why you can't do it alone:

  • Sponsorship is Mandatory: You cannot issue yourself an invitation. You must be sponsored by a person or a business located in Somaliland.

  • Licensed Operators Only: Only tour operators with a valid Somaliland business license (like Golaas Geel) can issue an LOI that immigration will accept.

  • Safety Responsibility: When we issue your LOI, the airport immigration records that our company is legally responsible for your safety and conduct during your stay.

Note: The official Somaliland government website often does not mention the LOI requirement, which leads to many travelers being detained or delayed at the airport. Do not arrive without a printed copy of your LOI.

Mukhtar Jes
Previous

Step 1: Get Your Somalia e-Visa

Next

Step 3: The Arrival Process in Hargeisa