On 29 April 2024, the Council of the European Union decided to temporarily suspend certain elements of the EU law that regulates the issuing of visas to Ethiopian nationals from 1 June 2024. Other third-country nationals applying for visas in Ethiopia are not affected by these restrictions. In particular, it will no longer be possible for member states to issue multiple entry visas. Only single entry visas can be issued. Holders of Ethiopian service and diplomatic passports are no longer exempt from the visa fee. Furthermore, the standard visa-processing period now becomes 45 calendar days instead of 15. Please note the extended processing time and submit your application in good time.

This decision follows an assessment by the Commission, which concludes that cooperation by Ethiopia in the field of readmission of its nationals illegally staying in the EU is insufficient. There is a lack of response from the Ethiopian authorities with regard to readmission requests and difficulties persist with the issuance of emergency travel documents and with the organisation of both voluntary and non-voluntary return operations.

The suspension decision is temporary but does not come with a specific end date. The Commission will continue to assess any progress made on readmission cooperation.