The European Union has introduced new restrictions on visa access for Somali nationals following a report concluding that Somalia is not adequately cooperating on the return of its citizens.
Under the new temporary measures announced on Thursday, Somali passport holders will no longer be eligible for multiple-entry Schengen visas. In addition, standard visa processing times will be extended from 15 to 45 days.
The EU also suspended simplified documentation rules for visa applications and reinstated visa fees for holders of Somali diplomatic passports.
Officials said the restrictions are temporary and could be lifted if Somalia improves cooperation on readmission and repatriation procedures.
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