OID — Ethiopian Origin ID (Yellow Card)

The Ethiopian Origin ID, commonly known as the Yellow Card, was established by Proclamation No. 270/2002 to address the unique needs of the Ethiopian diaspora. Because the Ethiopian constitution does not permit dual citizenship, this card was created to fill the critical gap for individuals of Ethiopian descent who have acquired foreign nationality but wish to maintain strong ties to their country of origin. It provides a legal framework that grants these individuals specific rights and privileges, allowing them to contribute to the nation's development and maintain personal connections without the need for traditional visas or residency permits.

This ID is intended for foreign nationals of Ethiopian descent, including their spouses and minor children, who seek to engage with the country on a deeper level than a typical visitor. It is highly distinctive because it confers rights that mimic aspects of national status, such as the ability to own property, work without a permit, and access pension schemes, while explicitly excluding political rights like voting. The ideal applicant is a member of the diaspora looking to live, work, or invest in Ethiopia, providing them with a streamlined, long-term status that recognizes their ancestral heritage while respecting their current foreign citizenship.