The passport of the Federal Republic of Somalia has risen 15 positions in the most recently released global passport ranking, moving from 111th place in 2021 to 96th position today.

Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre said the improvement reflects growing international confidence in Somalia’s progress, stability, governance and global standing. He noted that the enhanced ranking delivers tangible benefits to Somali citizens.

According to the Prime Minister, Somali passport holders can now travel to nearly 40 countries with visa-free access or visas on arrival, a development expected to positively impact students, businesspeople and professionals.

The government linked part of the passport’s strengthened position to Somalia’s recent integration into the East African Community (EAC) on 17 February 2026. Somalia became the sixth country to adopt the East African Community passport, a move officials say has further supported the country’s regional mobility and international engagement.

Prime Minister Barre also highlighted continued diplomatic progress, noting that several international partners have granted visa-free entry to holders of Somali diplomatic passports. Recent agreements signed with Azerbaijan and Tanzania were cited as examples of this expanding cooperation.

He expressed optimism that similar privileges will eventually extend to ordinary passport holders as Somalia continues to strengthen its regional role in the Horn of Africa, expand trade and build a more resilient economy.

The federal government views the passport’s improved ranking as a significant milestone in Somalia’s broader efforts to deepen international partnerships and enhance opportunities for its citizens.