When traveling to Ethiopia, your nationality and the types of activities you will conduct during your trip will determine whether you may travel lawfully as a business visitor or if you require a work permit. Please seek advice from your immigration counsel if you are uncertain about the specific types of activities that constitute business or work.

What types of activities may I engage in as a business visitor?

As a business visitor to Ethiopia, you may engage in the activities below, depending on the type of Business Visa obtained. The most common types of Business Visas are the Conference Visa and Investment Visa. While this list is not exhaustive and other activities could qualify as business, depending on the visa held, you may:

• » Attend business meetings, conferences, workshops, and seminars
• » Register a company
• » Tour a company facility as a potential investor
• » Explore investment opportunities

If I qualify as a business visitor, do I need a visa for Ethiopia?

Most foreign nationals, including nationals of the United States and the European Union member states, are required to obtain a Business Visa from an Ethiopian Consulate or Embassy prior to travel. Only nationals from Djibouti and Kenya are eligible for visa waiver status, which allows visitors to enter and conduct business activities in Ethiopia. Please obtain an individual assessment prior to travel to determine your eligibility for a visa waiver.

What types of activities require a work permit?

The activities below, whether paid or unpaid, generally constitute work under Ethiopian law. This list is not exhaustive, and many other professional activities are considered work in Ethiopia, even if conducted for a short duration.

• » Hands-on technical work
• » Repairs and maintenance
• » Project planning and implementation

If I am traveling to Ethiopia for work, what type of work permit do I need?

The requirements for a Work Permit depend on your qualifications, on your position, on your industry, and on the duration of your work. The most common form of work authorization in Ethiopia is the Work Permit, which is issued to foreign nationals seeking to perform work activities in Ethiopia.

Is it possible to be exempted from work permit requirements?

Ethiopia does not offer work authorization exemptions.

Inevitably, the legal and strategic considerations impacting visa selection, as well as visa waiver and work authorization eligibility, entail the careful consideration of many factors. We recommend that you consult with your immigration counsel before taking any course of action.

Copyright © 2020 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. Government immigration agencies often change their policies and practices without notice; please consult an immigration professional for up-to-date information. This document does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. BAL maintains comprehensive immigration information and processing specifics for our clients.