The Somali Immigration Authority has announced a new deadline for the mandatory use of the National Identification (ID) Card for passengers traveling on domestic flights.
Originally scheduled to take effect on 1 January 2026, the requirement has now been extended by two months. The new enforcement date is 1 March 2026, giving citizens a 60-day extension to obtain the National ID card.
Under the regulation, all passengers traveling between regions within Somalia will be required to present a National ID card when boarding local flights.
Many Somalis rely heavily on domestic air travel due to ongoing security risks, including robbery and killings, on major land routes across the country. Authorities say the ID requirement is intended to improve passenger identification and security.
The National ID card is currently available free of charge in many regions and districts. However, some areas still lack facilities for issuing the card, making it difficult for residents to comply with the new rule. The extension is expected to provide relief to citizens who have not yet been able to obtain the ID.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has previously stated in a public address that anyone without a National ID card may face restrictions in accessing both public and private services. He emphasized that every Somali citizen is entitled to obtain the ID, without exception.
The National ID card is an official identity document that every citizen has the right to own and use to verify their identity within Somalia.
Despite this, concerns remain among the public. There are rumors that the card contains a tracking chip capable of monitoring personal information and movement, though authorities have not confirmed these claims. Additionally, the government has not released official data on how many citizens have already obtained the card.
Some citizens have complained that the application process can take several months, delaying access to essential services and travel.
In response, the Chairman of the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) stated that the National ID card is available nationwide, at any time, and without payment or conditions, other than verification of personal identity and responsibility.