Somalia suspends Egypt travel clearance system after passenger complaints

MOGADISHU, May 24, 2026 — Somalia’s Immigration and Citizenship Agency said on Sunday it had temporarily suspended the use of the “OK-to-Board” travel authorization system for Somali citizens travelling to Egypt following recent difficulties faced by passengers.

In a statement, the agency said that from May 24, 2026, all Somali nationals travelling to Egypt would be required to obtain an official visa issued by the Egyptian consulate before departure.

The agency said the decision followed a series of complaints and travel-related problems affecting Somali citizens attempting to enter the North African country in recent days.

Officials described the suspension of the “OK-to-Board” arrangement as a temporary measure and stressed the importance of maintaining the longstanding relations and travel cooperation between Somalia and Egypt.

The agency urged Somali travellers to contact the Egyptian consulate to secure the required visa before making travel arrangements.

The announcement comes after reports that at least 35 Somali passengers were stranded for two consecutive nights at Cairo International Airport, with some alleging mistreatment by airport authorities.

Several passengers said their passports were confiscated and that they were prevented from either entering Egypt or leaving the airport, according to accounts shared on social media.

GAROWE ONLINE