Wakaalad/Power of Attorney

Consular Services

Links

NEW PROCEDURES FOR WAKAALAD/POWER OF ATTORNEY (POA)

The Embassy of the Federal Republic of Somalia to the United States has introduced modernized procedures for processing the Power of Attorney (Wakaalad) document. These changes move the service to a secure, online, and video-based process designed for increased efficiency and accessibility for the Somali diaspora.

The new procedure removes the requirement for applicants to have the Wakaalad document witnessed and attested by a Public Notary. The Embassy will now perform this vital function directly during the appointment.

Overview of the New Process

New Feature

Updated Procedure

Witness/Attestation

Embassy Consular Officer witnesses and attests signatures.

Method

Secure Video Conference and Digital Submission.

Signature

Secure Digital E-Signature required during live interview.

Processing Time

Completed within 48 hours (assuming complete documents).

Fees

$200 Service Fee + $9.48 Bank Transaction Fee (Online Payment).

Step-by-Step Guide to the New Wakaalad Service

To ensure a smooth process, all applicants must follow these steps:

Step 1: Book Your Appointment & Pay Fees

  1. Visit the official Embassy appointment portal: https://usa.mfa.gov.so/book-appointment/
  2. Select the Power of Attorney (Wakaalad) service.
  3. The appointment booking will require mandatory online payment of the $200 Service Fee plus a $9.48 Bank Transaction Fee.

Step 2: Document Submission and Preparation

    1. Once your appointment is confirmed, you will receive an official email from the Embassy.
    2. This email will outline the complete list of required documents (e.g., draft Wakaalad written in Somali, copies of valid government IDs for all parties, etc.). You must submit these documents electronically in advance as instructed.
    3. The email will also provide the secure video conference link and instructions to prepare for your live video interview with the Embassy Consular Officer.

Step 3: The Video Interview & Digital Attestation

    1. Join the video conference at your scheduled time.
    2. The Consular Officer will verify your identity and confirm the details of the Wakaalad document.
    3. You will be required to apply a secure digital e-signature during the interview. This signature will be witnessed by the Consular Officer and legally attests the document on behalf of the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Somalia.
    4. The Wakaalad document will be processed and finalized within 48 hours of a successful interview.

Important Notes

    • No Notary Required: Effective immediately, any documents presented to the Embassy with a Public Notary seal will not be considered a substitute for the mandatory online appointment and Consular attestation process.

    • Complete Documents: Any delays beyond 48 hours are generally due to incomplete or incorrect document submissions. Please ensure all required documents are correctly prepared and submitted on time.

    • Digital Security: The Embassy uses secure platforms for video conferencing and digital signatures to ensure the integrity and non-repudiation of the final document.

For immediate questions regarding the new procedure, please contact the Consular Section at washingtonembassy@mfa.gov.so.

Scroll to Top