Welcome to Immigration and Citizenship Services

The Immigration Citizenship Service, a pivotal national institution, has been established following a significant restructuring process outlined in Proclamation No. 1263/2014, along with a directive for the reorganization of federal government institutions under Directive No. 449/2014. This service plays a crucial role in the nation’s governance and development. It is tasked with overseeing the registration of vital events and national identification works, a fundamental aspect in affirming citizens’ identities and their freedom of movement.

At the heart of its operations, the Immigration Citizenship Service is dedicated to providing high-quality and secure services related to travel, identity, and national identification documents. This commitment ensures that all services are rendered to users in a responsible and reliable manner. The service’s responsibilities extend to contributing significantly to good governance and national development. This contribution is achieved by providing timely and secure information, ensuring the quality and integrity of this information, and maintaining and organizing it effectively.

The Immigration Citizenship Service prides itself on its customer-centric approach. This includes offering efficient and high-quality services, ensuring the provision of adequate and relevant information, and rendering responsible service. The service is also committed to representing its customers adequately in the implementation of its organizational plans. Furthermore, a system of clear feedback and accountability is in place, reinforcing its dedication to transparency and fairness. A key aspect of its customer service policy is the strict confidentiality maintained concerning personal information, underscoring the institution’s commitment to privacy and security.

The Immigration Citizenship Service stands as a testament to effective public service, underpinning vital aspects of national identity and mobility while fostering an environment of trust and efficiency for its customers.

Services

The Immigration Citizenship Service, an integral part of national governance, offers a comprehensive array of services crucial for maintaining and affirming the identity and mobility of citizens. From issuing and renewing passports to managing visa applications and handling residency permits, our services are designed to be efficient, secure, and user-friendly. We are committed to upholding the highest standards of service quality, ensuring that every interaction with our department is marked by professionalism, transparency, and responsiveness. Whether you are seeking to travel, need documentation for identification purposes, or require any immigration-related assistance, the Immigration Citizenship Service is here to provide reliable, comprehensive support tailored to meet your needs.

General requirements, terms, and conditions for services are outlined below

All foreign documents must be authenticated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or respective embassy.
All copies of documents must be clear and legible.
Applicants must complete all required forms in full and provide accurate information.
Processing fees are applicable for all services and must be paid as per the specified rates.
The processing time for each service may vary depending on the volume of applications and other factors.

To understand specific requirements for various services, please see below.

Ethiopian Origin ID

New Applicants:

Foreign passport with a validity of more than 6 months
Visa of entry/printout if e-Visa was used
Copy of Ethiopian passport
Birth certificate
Family identification of mother, father, brother, or sister

Replacement Of Ethiopian Origin ID

Temporary Residence Permit Through Marriage

The foreign spouse’s passport with a validity of more than 6 months
Entry visa into the country
Legal marriage certificate valid for two years
If the marriage was performed abroad, the certificate needs verification from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
If the spouse is Ethiopian, a validated local identification or passport
Application letter
Bank statement of over ETB 35,000 or property ownership confirmation/certificate
Both parties must be physically present for the application

For Renewal of Residence Permit

Passport of the foreign national with more than 6 months validity
Visa upon entry to the country
Work contract certified by the Ministry of Labor (if employment-based)
Recommendation letter from the respective institution or organization
Residence permit application form filled out and signed
Recent passport-size photograph
Bank statement showing a balance of over ETB 35,000 or a lease agreement

For Business Visa Application

Passport of the foreign national with more than 6 months validity
An invitation letter from the host company in Ethiopia
Business license or investment permit of the host company
Bank statement of the host company showing a balance of over ETB 100,000
Profile of the host company
TIN certificate of the host company
Application letter from the host company

For Student Visa Application

Passport of the foreign national with more than 6 months validity
Admission letter from the educational institution in Ethiopia
Evidence of fee payment to the educational institution
Bank statement showing a balance of over ETB 35,000 or a sponsorship letter
If under 18, a letter of consent from parents or guardians
Two recent passport-size photographs

For NGO Work Permit

Passport of the foreign national with more than 6 months validity
Work contract or agreement with the NGO
NGO registration certificate from the relevant Ethiopian authority
Recommendation letter from the NGO
Curriculum Vitae (CV) of the applicant
Academic credentials and professional certificates
Bank statement showing a balance of over ETB 35,000 or a sponsorship letter
Two recent passport-size photographs