Residence & citizenship
Ethiopian Ethiopian Origin ID (Diaspora / Yellow Card)
An ID for people of Ethiopian origin holding foreign citizenship, granting visa-free entry and residence-type rights so the diaspora can live and return freely.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Under review — check current rules
The service fee (stated as USD 300 standard / USD 400 expedited on the ICS page) and processing time should be re-confirmed with ICS as they may change.
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 Ethiopia government website before you apply.
- Official name
- Ethiopian Origin ID
- Route type
- Diaspora / origin status (settlement)
- Eligibility
- People of Ethiopian origin holding foreign citizenship
- Key benefit
- Visa-free entry, property ownership, easier residency/employment
- Service fee
- USD 300 standard / USD 400 expedited (per ICS page)
- Confirm current fee with ICS
Who it is for
- Foreign citizens who are of Ethiopian descent (Ethiopian parents or family heritage)
- Members of the Ethiopian diaspora, including those born abroad
- Children (with the relevant documentation) and spouses via the related origin-ID routes
Requirements
- A passport valid for at least six months
- A completed application form and recent photograph
- Entry visa documentation
- A machine-readable Ethiopian passport or authenticated birth certificate
- Proof of Ethiopian heritage (e.g. a parent's credentials or a prior kebele ID)
- Court decisions / additional documents for name changes, foreign registration or adoption where applicable
What you can do
- Enter Ethiopia without a visa
- Own property in Ethiopia
- Access residency and employment opportunities more easily
How to apply
Apply online or in person at immigration offices — it cannot be issued by proxy. For guidance contact info@ics.gov.et or the free hotline 8133.
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.
Related Ethiopian visas
- SETTLEMENTRENEWABLEPermanent Residence IDA five-year renewable residence ID allowing foreign nationals to reside in Ethiopia long term, giving a stable basis for settled life in the country.View visa details
- SETTLEMENTNATURALISATIONCitizenship by NaturalisationFor foreign nationals acquiring Ethiopian nationality by naturalisation under the Ethiopian Nationality Proclamation, the route to becoming a full citizen.View visa details