Somalia Launches International Tender for Next-Generation Passport
Somalia’s Immigration and Citizenship Agency (ICA) has taken a significant step toward modernizing the country’s identity and travel document systems by launching an international tender to produce a new third-generation passport.
The upcoming e-passport, made from durable polycarbonate material, will include advanced biometric and anti-forgery features that meet the standards of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). The initiative aims to strengthen the security, credibility, and global recognition of Somali travel documents.
In a statement released Saturday, the ICA described this as “a major milestone in modernizing Somalia’s immigration and citizenship services.” The project will be implemented through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model to enhance efficiency and ensure transparent service delivery.
The agency confirmed that the tender will follow Somalia’s Public Procurement Act, guaranteeing fairness, competition, and public oversight at every stage. Officials emphasized that transparency will be at the core of the process.
Beyond technology, the ICA announced plans to involve citizens, government institutions, and civil society groups in shaping the design and identity of the new passport. “We want this passport to reflect the dignity, pride, and aspirations of every Somali citizen,” the agency stated.
The last major upgrade to Somalia’s passport was in 2013, when the first e-passport was introduced. The new third-generation version marks another leap forward, aligning Somalia with international travel standards and supporting the country’s digital governance vision.
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