Somalia passport → India

India visa for citizens of Somalia

Embassy / VFSTourist Visa (e- Tourist visa not available)

Citizens of Somalia need a visa for India and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre.

Verified · Last checked 2026-09-05. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry route	Embassy / VFS · Tourist Visa (e- Tourist visa not available)
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 90 days
Visa validity	365 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Processing time	7–15 days
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Bank statements for last 6 months showing sufficient balance (approx. USD 500)

How to apply

1
Determine the nearest Indian Embassy/Consulate
Since there is no Indian diplomatic mission in Somalia, apply at the Indian embassy in a neighboring country (e.g., Addis Ababa, Nairobi) or the one covering your current residence.
2
Register on Indian Visa Online portal
Go to indianvisaonline.gov.in, select the appropriate visa category, fill the application form, and submit it.
3
Upload required documents (photo & signature)
Upload digital copies of your photo and signature as per specifications (JPEG, ≤300 KB).
4
Pay the visa fee (if online payment is accepted)
Visa fee varies by nationality; for Somalian passport holders no specific fee is publicly listed – check with the embassy. Pay online or as instructed.
5
Book an appointment at the chosen embassy
Visit the embassy’s website or contact them to schedule a personal appearance for document submission and biometrics.
6
Prepare physical application package
Print the signed application form, attach photo, gather all required original and photocopied documents.
7
Attend appointment at the embassy
Submit documents, provide fingerprints and photo (biometrics), and possibly answer a few questions. No interview is typically required.
8
Wait for visa processing
Processing generally takes 7–15 working days but can be longer. Track status on the online portal or via the embassy.
9
Collect passport with visa
If you opted for collection, return to the embassy to pick up your passport. If postal return is arranged, wait for courier.
10
Review visa details before travel
Check the visa sticker for correct validity dates, number of entries, and max stay. Notify the embassy of any errors immediately.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages, validity ≥6 months)
Original and copy of the personal information page
Completed visa application form (online, printed, and signed)
Form must be filled on Indian Visa Online portal
Two recent passport-size photographs (white background, 2x2 inch)
One must be glued on the application form

Travel

Round-trip flight reservation or itinerary
Not required for submission, but strongly advised
Hotel booking confirmation or invitation letter from host in India
For tourist visa, hotel bookings for entire stay or letter of accommodation

Financial

Bank statements for last 6 months
Must show sufficient funds for the trip
Income tax returns or pay slips (last 3 months)
Optional
Self-employed may provide business registration and tax returns

Employment

Employment letter or leave approval from employer
On company letterhead with salary details and leave dates

Supporting

Proof of residence in the country of application (if not Somalia)
Optional
E.g., residence permit or visa for that country
Cover letter explaining purpose of visit and itinerary
Optional
Optional but recommended
Travel insurance (recommended)
Optional
Not mandatory but strongly recommended
Copy of previous Indian visas (if any)
Optional
Helps with application history
Police clearance certificate (if requested)
Optional
May be required for certain applicants or longer stays
Self-addressed return envelope for passport delivery (if applicable)
Optional
Only if the embassy provides postal return

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: Equivalent of approximately USD 500 for the duration of stay

Bank statements (last 6 months)
Income tax returns
Pay slips
Sponsorship letter with sponsor’s bank statements

Proof of sufficient funds is essential; self-sponsored tourists must show personal funds.

Good to know

Somalia does not have an Indian embassy; you must apply from a third country where you hold a valid residence permit or visa.
Visa fees and processing times depend on the jurisdiction of the applying embassy and may change without notice.
It is recommended to travel to the embassy in person; some embassies may accept applications by mail for prior visa holders – confirm directly.
The Indian eVisa and visa-on-arrival facilities are NOT available for Somali passport holders.

Common refusal reasons

Incomplete or incorrect application form

Double-check all fields, upload correct photos, and sign the printed form.

Insufficient funds or lack of proof of financial means

Provide clear bank statements showing adequate balance and stable income.

Invalid or damaged passport (less than 6 months validity, missing pages)

Ensure passport is valid for at least 6 months from the date of departure and has two blank visa pages.

Failure to prove strong ties to home country (risk of overstay)

Include evidence of employment, property, family, or other commitments in Somalia or country of residence.

Criminal record or previous immigration violations

Obtain a police clearance certificate if requested; be honest about any past issues.

FAQ

Do citizens of Somalia need a visa for India?

Citizens of Somalia need a visa for India and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Tourist Visa (e- Tourist visa not available).

How long can citizens of Somalia stay in India?

Up to 90 days.

How long does India visa processing take?

Typically 7–15 days.

What documents do citizens of Somalia need for India?

Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages, validity ≥6 months); Completed visa application form (online, printed, and signed); Two recent passport-size photographs (white background, 2x2 inch); Round-trip flight reservation or itinerary; Hotel booking confirmation or invitation letter from host in India; Bank statements for last 6 months; and 8 more.

How long must my passport be valid for India?

At least 6 months.

Where do I apply?

On the official site: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/

Sources

indianvisaonline.gov.in

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