Temporary Restriction on Schengen Visa Conditions for Somali Citizens
The Council of the European Union has introduced a temporary restriction on the conditions for issuing Schengen visas to Somali citizens, effective late June 2026, amidst growing tension surrounding migration and readmission policies.
What the Reform Entails
The new provisions introduce several significant changes in the processing of visa applications:
- End of multiple-entry Schengen visas for Somali citizens
- Stricter documentary requirements, with less flexibility in examining applications
- Possible removal of facilities granted to diplomatic and service passports
- Extended processing times, which can reach up to 45 days, compared to around 15 days previously
It is worth noting that the decision is officially presented as temporary and reversible. It can be reassessed if cooperation between Brussels and Mogadishu improves, particularly regarding procedures for the return of individuals in irregular situations.
A Brief Reminder
The European Union has already implemented this type of measure several times in recent years. The Gambia was one of the first examples in 2021, with a tightening of Schengen visa conditions as part of this readmission mechanism. The same logic applied to Ethiopia in 2024, where "Brussels" tightened visa conditions before reversing its decision in 2026, following an improvement in cooperation with Addis Ababa.
