Guide to Residency in Ethiopia

Obtaining a residency visa in Ethiopia is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Ethiopia gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

• Prepare Required Documents
  • Valid passport with at least six months validity remaining
  • Two recent passport-sized photographs
  • Police clearance certificate from your home country
  • Medical certificate issued within the last three months
  • Proof of sufficient financial means to support yourself
• Obtain a Visa
  • Visit the official website of the Ethiopian Embassy in your country (e.g., Ethiopian Embassy UK)
  • Apply for an entry visa, either online or in person
  • Select the appropriate visa type (e.g., business, work, or family-related)
  • Complete the application form and submit the required documents
  • Pay the visa fee and schedule an appointment if necessary
• Register with the Security, Immigration, and Refugee Affairs Authority (SIRA)
  • Visit the SIRA office in Addis Ababa within seven days of arrival
  • Complete the foreigner registration form
  • Submit two passport-sized photographs
  • Pay the registration fee
• Apply for a Residence Permit
  • Visit the Main Department for Immigration and Nationality Affairs in Addis Ababa
  • Submit the following documents:
    • Completed application form
    • Valid passport and a copy
    • Two passport-sized photographs
    • Police clearance certificate
    • Medical certificate
    • Proof of sufficient financial means
    • Letter of support from your employer or sponsor (if applicable)
  • Pay the residence permit fee
• Apply for a Tax Number
  • Visit the Ethiopian Revenues and Customs Authority (ERCA) office
  • Complete the Tax Identification Number (TIN) registration form
  • Submit a copy of your passport and residence permit
  • Provide a valid contact address in Ethiopia
• Register with your local kebele (neighborhood) administration office
  • Visit the kebele office in the area where you will be living
  • Submit a copy of your passport, residence permit, and TIN
  • Complete the registration form and provide a valid contact address
• Renew your Residence Permit
  • Visit the Main Department for Immigration and Nationality Affairs before your permit expires
  • Submit the required documents for renewal
  • Pay the renewal fee

Important Notes

The process and requirements for obtaining residency status in Ethiopia may vary depending on your specific situation. It is recommended to consult the official websites of the relevant authorities or contact them directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Ethiopian Embassy in your country: List of Ethiopian Embassies

Security, Immigration, and Refugee Affairs Authority (SIRA): SIRA Official Website

Ethiopian Revenues and Customs Authority (ERCA): ERCA Official Website

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Ethiopia?

"In order to visit Ethiopia, travelers must obtain a visa prior to arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs, and a fee. Depending on the type of visa, additional documents may be required. In order to obtain residency in Ethiopia, applicants must submit an application form, a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs, and a fee. Additionally, applicants must provide proof of employment, proof of financial stability, and a letter of recommendation from a local sponsor. Once the application is approved, the applicant will be issued a residency permit," commented one member living in Ethiopia.