›Can Somali passport holders enter Kenya?
Somali passport holders do not need a visa to enter Kenya for short stays — which is a significant advantage. You can enter Kenya visa-free, apply for the digital nomad visa from within the country, and avoid the consulate process entirely if the program allows in-country conversion. Always confirm the current maximum stay allowed on entry before booking.
›Requirements for Somali passport holders
The Digital Nomad Visa assesses all applicants on the same criteria regardless of nationality. Somali citizens can apply provided they meet the following requirements:
- Income: Not specified — proven via 3–6 months bank statements
- Remote work proof: Employment contract, freelance agreements, or client letters confirming you work for non-Kenya entities
- Health insurance: Health insurance is strongly recommended even if not formally required
- Clean background: Police clearance from Somalia (apostilled if required by Kenya)
- Valid passport: Somalia passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay
- Accommodation proof: Rental agreement, hotel booking, or property documents in Kenya
Important: Documents not in Kenya's official language or English must be certified translated. Somali applicants should confirm apostille requirements for documents issued in Somalia.
›How Somali citizens apply — step by step
- Gather documentation. Collect 3–6 months of bank statements showing consistent income above the threshold, employment contracts or freelance agreements, valid Somalia passport (6+ months validity), international health insurance certificate, and a police clearance certificate.
- Authenticate documents. Check whether Kenya requires apostille stamps on Somalia-issued documents. Arrange certified translations for any documents not in the local language or English. This step can take 2–6 weeks — start early.
- Check entry requirements. Verify whether Somali citizens can enter Kenya visa-free or need a short-stay visa before applying for the digital nomad visa. Check the Kenya embassy website for current entry requirements for Somalia passport holders.
- Submit your application. Apply through the official Kenya government portal. Some programs accept online applications; others require in-person submission at a consulate.
- Await approval and enter. Once approved, book travel and confirm your health insurance is active from day one. Register with local immigration if required within the first 30 days of arrival in Kenya.
›Tax treatment for Somali digital nomad visa holders
Foreign-sourced income not subject to Kenyan income tax
Always consult a tax professional who understands both Somalia and Kenya tax law before committing to an extended stay.
›Common mistakes Somali applicants make
Weak or inconsistent income documentation
Depositing a lump sum right before applying won't work. Kenya immigration officials want to see consistent income above the threshold over 3–6 months. Sporadic freelance payments or transfers from family members don't qualify. Start maintaining clean financial records as early as possible.
Missing apostille or translation requirements
Somali applicants often underestimate authentication requirements. Somalia-issued documents — including bank letters, employment contracts, and police certificates — may need apostille stamps and certified translations. This process can take weeks. Budget for it early.
Not confirming entry eligibility before booking travel
Somali passport holders may need a short-stay visa to enter Kenya before their digital nomad visa is approved. Confirm entry requirements with the Kenya embassy before booking any flights. Entry eligibility and DNV eligibility are separate questions.
