---
title: United States visa for citizens of Somalia
description: "Citizens of Somalia need a visa for the United States and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Stay up to 180 days. Fee: $185. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/united-states/somalia
lastModified: 2026-09-05
---

# United States visa for citizens of Somalia

Citizens of Somalia need a visa for the United States 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.*

Official application site: https://www.ustraveldocs.com/

## Key facts

- **Entry route:** Embassy / VFS · B1/B2 Visitor Visa
- **How to apply:** In-person at an embassy or visa center
- **Maximum stay:** Up to 180 days
- **Entries:** Multiple entry
- **Government fee:** $185
- **Passport validity:** At least 6 months
- **Biometrics:** Required
- **Appointment:** Required
- **Interview:** Required

## How to apply

1. **Complete DS-160 form online** — Fill out the online nonimmigrant visa application and print the confirmation page.
2. **Pay visa application fee** — Pay the nonrefundable MRV fee (currently $185) as instructed on the payment portal.
3. **Schedule interview appointment** — Book an appointment at the U.S. embassy or consulate in your jurisdiction.
4. **Gather required documents** — Collect passport, DS-160 confirmation, photo, fee receipt, and supporting documents.
5. **Attend visa interview** — Appear in person at the embassy on the scheduled date for biometrics and interview.
6. **Wait for processing** — Processing time varies; you may be asked to submit additional documents.
7. **Collect passport with visa** — If approved, your passport will be returned with the visa affixed.

## Documents checklist

- **Valid passport** (Identity): Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay.
- **DS-160 confirmation page** (Identity): Online nonimmigrant visa application form.
- **Photo** (Identity): Must meet U.S. visa photo requirements.
- **Visa application fee receipt** (Financial): Proof of payment of the MRV fee.
- **Appointment confirmation letter** (Supporting): Shows date and time of interview.
- **Bank statements** (Financial, optional): To demonstrate sufficient funds for travel.
- **Employment letter** (Employment, optional): Shows job status and salary.
- **Travel itinerary** (Travel, optional): Details of planned travel and accommodation.
- **Proof of ties to home country** (Supporting, optional): E.g., property deeds, family certificates.
- **Previous U.S. visas (if any)** (Supporting, optional): Copies of any prior U.S. visas.

## Good to know

- Effective June 9, 2025, U.S. visas will no longer be issued to citizens of 12 countries, with certain exemptions. Verify your eligibility before applying.

## Common refusal reasons

- **Insufficient ties to home country** — Provide strong evidence of employment, family, or property in Somalia.
- **Incomplete or incorrect application** — Double-check all entries on DS-160 and ensure documents are complete.
- **Criminal record or previous visa violations** — Disclose all relevant history truthfully; consult an attorney if needed.

## FAQs

### Do citizens of Somalia need a visa for the United States?

Citizens of Somalia need a visa for the United States and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: B1/B2 Visitor Visa.

### How long can citizens of Somalia stay in the United States?

Up to 180 days.

### How much does the United States visa cost for citizens of Somalia?

Government fee: $185.

### What documents do citizens of Somalia need for the United States?

Valid passport; DS-160 confirmation page; Photo; Visa application fee receipt; Appointment confirmation letter; Bank statements; and 4 more depending on your situation.

### How long must my passport be valid for the United States?

At least 6 months.

### Where do I apply?

On the official site: https://www.ustraveldocs.com/

## Sources

- [ustraveldocs.com](https://www.ustraveldocs.com/)

## More

- [United States visa for every passport](/visa/united-states)
- [Every destination for Somalia passport holders](/visa/passport/somalia)