Ethiopian visa resources
Ethiopian diaspora: the Origin ID (yellow card)
How people of Ethiopian origin holding foreign citizenship can obtain the Ethiopian Origin ID for visa-free entry and residence-type rights.
Important
Ethiopia offers a dedicated route for its diaspora: the Ethiopian Origin ID, commonly known as the 'yellow card'. It is issued to individuals of Ethiopian descent who hold foreign citizenship, including those born abroad to Ethiopian parents or with Ethiopian family heritage.
Holders benefit from visa-free entry into Ethiopia, the right to own property, and easier access to residency and employment. Applicants prove their Ethiopian heritage with documents such as a machine-readable Ethiopian passport, an authenticated birth certificate, a parent's credentials or a prior kebele ID. The Origin ID cannot be issued by proxy, and related routes exist for spouses and children.
Good to know
- For foreign citizens of Ethiopian origin, not for first-time migrants
- Grants visa-free entry and property-ownership rights
- The ICS page lists a service fee of USD 300 standard / USD 400 expedited (confirm current fee)
- Must be applied for in person or online — not by proxy
Next steps
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.