Diplomatic/Service Visa

The Diplomatic/Service Visa is a specialized entry permit governed by international protocols, such as the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, and Ethiopian national regulations. It was established to facilitate the movement of foreign government officials and diplomats entering Ethiopia for official state business. This visa fills the critical gap of ensuring that representatives of foreign nations and international organizations can perform their duties without the administrative burdens or restrictions typically applied to general travelers, thereby upholding the principles of diplomatic courtesy and international cooperation.

This visa is exclusively for diplomats, government officials, and representatives of international organizations traveling to Ethiopia on official missions. Applicants must hold a valid diplomatic or official passport and provide a formal Note Verbale from their sending government or organization. It is highly distinctive because it is generally exempt from standard visa fees and processing requirements, reflecting the special status and immunity afforded to diplomatic personnel. The visa is essential for maintaining smooth bilateral relations and ensuring that official state-to-state communication remains uninterrupted.