The Federal Government of Somalia and Somaliland have not yet established explicit legal frameworks that formally recognize permanent residency for refugees and stateless persons. However, an analysis of existing laws, administrative practices, and policy developments reveals that pathways to long-term or indefinite residence do exist, particularly for individuals who satisfy certain residency duration, economic contribution, or special protection criteria.

In Somalia, the legal framework does not expressly define a category of permanent residence status for refugees or stateless individuals. Nevertheless, provisions under general immigration and foreign residency laws, including those related to investment incentives, labor permits, and long-term lawful residence, offer avenues through which eligible non-nationals may remain in the country on a more durable basis. Although primarily geared toward economic migrants or investors, these pathways can potentially benefit refugees and stateless persons who have resided in Somalia for extended periods, contribute economically, or have integrated into local communities. Moreover, policy reforms under discussion—particularly those related to national identification, refugee protection, and civil registration—could open additional opportunities for legal permanence, especially if accompanied by clearer guidelines on residency rights and entitlements.

In Somaliland, Immigration Law No. 72/1995 provides a legal foundation for the regulation of foreign nationals, and recent proposed legislative amendments have sought to expand and clarify provisions for long-term or permanent residency, including for select refugee populations. While not specifically designed for refugees or stateless persons, these legislative efforts reflect a growing recognition of the need for more inclusive and rights-based residency policies. In practice, the Somaliland government has demonstrated flexibility by extending temporary protection and residency permissions to certain groups—most notably Yemeni refugees, who have received special consideration due to their proximity, shared cultural ties, and protracted displacement. These accommodations indicate an evolving policy orientation toward integration and longer-term solutions for displaced persons.