The Somaliland government has begun a comprehensive registration process for all foreign nationals residing in the country, according to the Deputy Minister of Interior and Security, Hon. Abdirashid Mohamed Ahmed.
In a statement released on Wednesday 11th February, 2026, the deputy minister confirmed that the first group of foreigners previously operating in the gold-rich mountainous areas of Sanaag region has been successfully evacuated, with operations continuing to relocate the remaining individuals.
The initiative extends far beyond the Sanaag region. Deputy Minister Abdirashid announced that every non-Somaliland citizen currently in the country—regardless of nationality or place of origin—will be required to register with the authorities. National companies employing foreign workers have also been instructed to submit full details of their expatriate staff.
“The country has now achieved recognition, and it is both a necessity and a national duty to secure our data and maintain accurate records of who is present within our borders,” the minister emphasized. He stressed that the policy is not intended to harass or single out any individuals or groups, but rather to ensure proper oversight of foreign residents and their activities.
“All foreigners in the country will be registered without targeting anyone specifically,” he added. “Every person present in Somaliland who is not originally from the Republic of Somaliland must register, no matter where they come from.”
The registration drive is part of broader efforts to strengthen national security, improve immigration oversight, and protect Somaliland’s sovereignty following recent diplomatic and political developments.