In a statement issued Thursday, the agency said Somali citizens who do not possess a National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) card, or a certificate confirming registration, will no longer be eligible to apply for a Somali passport after the deadline.

“Anyone who does not have a National Identity Card (NIRA) or a certificate confirming registration for such a card cannot apply for a Somali passport starting July 1, 2026,” the agency said.

The ICA urged citizens to register and obtain national identity documents before the new requirement takes effect.

Officials said the measure is part of a broader federal initiative to improve identity verification, reduce fraud, and connect government services through a unified national registration system.

The agency also announced a separate update to the passport application process. Starting May 13, 2026, applicants will only be required to submit copies of supporting documents, while original documents will be verified and immediately returned to their owners.

Immigration officials said the change is intended to simplify services for citizens and protect important personal documents from loss or damage during the application process.