The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Nigeria wishes to inform the general public that the
Federal Government of Ethiopia has suspended issuance of “visa on arrival” to nonresident foreigners at all points of entry into the country, over security concerns and
the current political situation in that country. The suspension applies to nationals of
all countries bearing Standard Passports, who seek entry into Ethiopia and not
specifically targeted at Nigerians, as reported in some quarters.
The Ethiopian authorities have explained that the measure is aimed at better border
control of movement of persons into Ethiopia in view of the ongoing armed conflict in
the Northern part of the country. The measure is said to be temporary, pending
improvement in the security situation in the country and not a replacement of
Ethiopia’s open visa policy.
Therefore, Nigerians bearing Standard Passports intending to travel to Ethiopia are
by this notification advised to obtain appropriate entry visas at the Ethiopian Embassy
or an electronic visa (e-visa) through the country’s Immigration and Citizenship
Service (ICS) portal at www.evisa.gov.et Also, those transiting through Bole
International Airport, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia to other destinations or intend to briefly
stop over would require valid entry visa to enable them access hotel facilities in the
city or else would be obligated to remain in the airport pending their connecting
flight.
The new temporary visa restriction measure came into effect on 29th September,
2022. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, will liaise with the Nigeria Immigration Service
(NIS) and relevant Airlines to ensure that intending Nigerian travellers enroute
Ethiopia are well sensitized.
The general public is invited to take note of the new visa regime of the Federal
Government of Ethiopia and be guided accordingly.
In a related development, the Nigerian Government has noted the concern expressed by the Ethiopian authorities over the abuse of the country’s visa policy by some Nigerians who enter the country on tourist visas and remain even after the expiration of their visas, engaging in unwholesome activities. The activities of these few elements not only tarnish the image of the country, but limit opportunities for well meaning Nigerians outside the country. Such persons are enjoined to turn a new leaf and take advantage of the opportunity provided by the Ethiopian National Security Agencies to participate in the ongoing registration of undocumented migrants to avoid unpleasant situations.
Signed
Francisca K. Omayuli (Mrs)
Spokesperson
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Thursday, 6th October, 2022