Sunday October 12, 2025
Mogadishu (HOL) — Somalia’s Immigration and Citizenship Agency (ICA) has announced the launch of an international tender to produce a new third-generation passport as part of efforts to modernize national identification systems and meet global travel security standards.
The new e-passport will be made from durable polycarbonate material and will feature advanced biometric and anti-forgery elements that comply with the quality and safety standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
In a statement on Saturday, the agency described the move as “a major milestone in modernizing Somalia’s immigration and citizenship services.” The project will be implemented through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, which officials said is designed to improve efficiency and ensure transparent delivery.
According to the ICA, the tender will follow Somalia’s Public Procurement Act to guarantee transparency and competitiveness in selecting the company responsible for production. “The process will be carried out transparently and in accordance with national procurement laws,” the agency said, noting that all stages of evaluation will remain open to public oversight.
Officials said the third-generation passport aims to enhance document quality, increase durability, and strengthen international confidence in Somali travel documents. “The new passport will elevate the reputation and credibility of Somali citizens globally,” the statement added.
The agency also announced plans to hold extensive consultations with Somali citizens, government institutions, civil society groups, and other stakeholders to ensure the new passport represents the aspirations and identity of the Somali people.
“The Immigration and Citizenship Agency will engage the Somali public to ensure the new passport reflects the dignity, reputation, and needs of our citizens,” officials said.
The last major update to Somalia’s passport system occurred in 2013, when the country introduced its first electronic passport. The upcoming third-generation version is expected to meet emerging global travel requirements and support Somalia’s digital governance goals.