MOGADISHU, Somalia, June 23, 2026-The Somaliland administration has ordered undocumented foreigners, including individuals originating from southern Somalia, to leave its territories within 10 days, according to a directive issued by the Ministry of Interior and Security.
The ministry said security forces and immigration authorities have been instructed to take legal action against anyone found residing in Somaliland without valid documentation or legal residency status.
Officials described the move as part of broader efforts to strengthen internal security, regulate migration, and improve oversight of residents living across Somaliland’s major urban centers.
According to Somaliland authorities, the order applies to all foreign nationals and non-residents who do not possess valid legal documentation permitting them to stay in Somaliland.
Security officials said individuals without proper identification, residency permits, or immigration records are required to regularize their status or leave before the deadline expires.
Authorities have not released figures on how many people could be affected by the order, nor have they provided detailed information on how enforcement operations will be conducted once the deadline passes.
The announcement comes amid heightened attention on security issues in Somaliland and ongoing efforts by the administration to strengthen border controls and immigration management.
The Ministry of Interior said the measure is intended to enhance public safety and ensure that all residents are properly documented.
Officials stated that registration and verification campaigns targeting foreign residents have been conducted periodically in recent years, particularly in major cities such as Hargeisa, Berbera, and Burao.
As of Tuesday, there had been no immediate official response from the Federal Government of Somalia regarding the latest directive.
The decision comes at a time when Somaliland is expanding its international engagement and seeking stronger diplomatic, economic, and security partnerships.
In June 2026, Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi visited Israel for talks focused on security cooperation, agriculture, investment, and technology development, according to officials from both sides.
Recent reports have also highlighted discussions regarding closer security cooperation between Somaliland and Israel. However, claims that Israel is planning to establish a military base in Somaliland remain disputed.
Somaliland Defense Minister Mohamed Yusuf Ali publicly denied reports that formal negotiations were underway regarding an Israeli military base, while acknowledging existing security cooperation and training programs between the two sides.
The latest immigration directive follows a series of previous efforts by Somaliland authorities to identify undocumented residents and strengthen migration controls. Officials have consistently argued that tighter immigration management is necessary to address security concerns and improve governance.
Immigration and residency regulations have periodically become a source of tension between Somaliland and communities originating from other parts of Somalia.
In recent years, Somaliland authorities have conducted registration campaigns aimed at documenting foreign residents and ensuring compliance with local laws.
The administration has also increased security operations following concerns over regional instability, cross-border movements, and threats posed by militant groups operating in the Horn of Africa.
Analysts say immigration enforcement has become an increasingly important component of Somaliland’s broader security strategy as it seeks greater international recognition and deeper cooperation with foreign partners.
The coming days are expected to determine how effectively the order is implemented and whether affected individuals comply with the deadline.
Human rights organizations, community leaders, and regional observers are likely to monitor enforcement measures closely, particularly regarding their impact on long-term residents, workers, and families living in Somaliland.
The directive could affect thousands of people residing in Somaliland without formal documentation, including workers, traders, and individuals with family connections across different regions of Somalia.
Politically, the move reflects Somaliland’s continued efforts to project stronger control over its territory and institutions while pursuing expanded international partnerships.
The development also highlights broader debates surrounding migration, security, and governance in the Horn of Africa, where population movements and cross-border ties remain significant factors shaping regional politics and stability.