By Asha Elmi - Reporter
Somalia, 14 November 2025 — Somalia’s electronic visa (e-visa) system, launched in September 2025, may have been compromised, potentially exposing the personal data of at least 35,000 applicants, including an unknown number of U.S. citizens, the U.S. Embassy in Somalia reported.
According to the embassy on Thursday, the alleged breach was identified on 11 November 2025.
Leaked information may include applicants’ names, photos, dates and places of birth, email addresses, marital status, and home addresses.
“While Embassy Mogadishu is unable to confirm whether an individual’s data is part of the breach, individuals who have applied for a Somali e-visa may be affected,” the embassy said in a statement.
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Attempts to obtain comment from Somalia’s Immigration and Citizenship Agency (ICA) have so far been unsuccessful.
The e-visa program has previously faced criticism, with Puntland and Somaliland reportedly rejecting applications under the system.
The embassy urged applicants to remain vigilant, follow official updates from the ICA, and take precautions to protect their personal data.
The incident highlights ongoing cybersecurity risks as Somalia expands its digital government services to facilitate international travel and trade.
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