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Visitor & short-stay visas

Djiboutian Visa on Arrival

A limited on-arrival route, issued at the border primarily for diplomatic, official and service passport holders rather than ordinary travellers.

Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced

Under review — check current rules

Eligibility scope for visa on arrival (diplomatic/official/service vs. ordinary passports) is based on reference sources and airline notices, not a confirmed official Djiboutian statement; verify before relying on it.

Important information

Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Djibouti government website before you apply.
On this page
Official name
Visa on arrival
Route type
On-arrival visa (mainly diplomatic/official/service passports)
Where issued
Djibouti–Ambouli International Airport and other border points
Where to apply
Ambouli International Airport / approved border posts
Eligibility
Diplomatic, official and service passport holders
Ordinary passports: use the e-Visa instead

Who it is for

  • Holders of diplomatic, official and service passports officially recognised for on-arrival issuance
  • Not a reliable route for ordinary-passport tourists — use the e-Visa instead

Requirements

Although visa on arrival has historically been associated with Ambouli International Airport, the Djiboutian government now restricts it to holders of diplomatic, official and service passports. Ordinary passport holders are expected to obtain an e-Visa before travel rather than rely on arrival.

How to apply

  • Eligible diplomatic / official / service passport holders present their passport and supporting travel documents at the immigration desk on arrival
  • Ordinary passport holders should instead apply online in advance at evisa.gouv.dj and print the approved e-Visa PDF to present at the border

Frequently asked questions

  • In practice, no. Djibouti's government limits visa on arrival to diplomatic, official and service passport holders and directs other travellers to obtain an e-Visa in advance. Do not count on being issued a visa at the airport on an ordinary passport.

Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.

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