The situation in Somalia

Since 1991, the civil war has been an ongoing force in Somalia, displacing untold numbers of people and claiming the lives of nearly half a million people. The unrest has caused thousands to flee into neighbouring countries like Ethiopia to seek refuge from the terror. These people do not move out of want, but out of necessity.  However, their option of countries is not limited to the surrounding African states, as many Somalians have successfully made the move to the United Kingdom. In order to settle in a new country a DNA Test is normally required.

Why the UK?

The United Kingdom offers a simple and transparent method for Somalians to emigrate into the country. The law states, that if a British citizen is related to a person in a country outside of the European Union (Such as Somalia), DNA Test providing, they can be granted access into the United Kingdom. This offers an opportunity for thousands of British citizens to help their relatives located in Somalia move over to the UK and avoid the current conflict.

Throughout history, the United Kingdom has shown an upward trend in Somalian people living in the UK. Estimates have indicated that there may be 100,000 Somalians in the UK. There are established Somali communities in areas of London, Cardiff and Liverpool, as well as numerous other cities. This has provided thousands with not just a place to seek refuge, but also a home to thrive and be happy in.

In recent years many Somalians have found significant success in the United Kingdom. The Metropolitan Police recently hired its first female Somali police officer and the recent local elections made turned Somali residents into councillors. Somali people have also opened businesses in the UK such as restaurants, travel agencies and internet cafés. The latter in particular provides a platform to communicate with family members and friends who may still live in Somalia or other parts of the UK.

How can I move/help someone move to the UK?

There are a couple of ways in which a Somalian resident can move to the UK. These methods are detailed below:

• If you are living in Somalia or any other non-EU country and are related to a current UK citizen, you can be granted a visa to live in the UK. Your relationship will have to be proven by a DNA test and the samples will need to be taken by a doctor or nurse. Once the relationship is proven, the legal documentation you acquire can then be used to help the application process. This is something we can help you with on the website
• If you are in a partnership with a citizen from the UK and can prove this, you will be granted a visa for the UK. You will also need to prove you can be financially sustainable. However, new reforms announced recently means that from autumn 2010, you will also need to pass a basic English test. With this in mind, it might be advisable to utilise the first option.