Work visas
Ethiopian Foreign Business Firm Employment Visa (WV)
For foreign nationals coming to work for foreign-owned or foreign-controlled business firms in Ethiopia, tied to employment with that qualifying company.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Under review — check current rules
Initial visa validity (reported as 30 days), work-permit fees and processing times for the WV route are not officially confirmed here; verify current figures with ICS / evisa.gov.et.
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.
On this page
- Official name
- Foreign Business Firm Employment Visa (WV)
- Route type
- Work / employment visa
- Sponsor
- Employing foreign-owned business firm in Ethiopia
- Validity / stay
- Short initial validity, extended via work/residence permit
- Initial validity often reported as 30 days — confirm on evisa.gov.et
Who it is for
- Foreign nationals employed by foreign-owned or foreign-controlled companies operating in Ethiopia
- Expatriate staff being posted or hired to work in Ethiopia
Requirements
- A passport valid for at least six months
- An employment contract or letter from the employing firm
- Evidence of the firm's registration and licence to operate in Ethiopia
- Supporting documents (photographs, application form, qualifications) as requested
- A work permit for the employment, arranged with the relevant authorities
How to apply
The employing firm and the employee apply through the official e-Visa portal and the ICS, providing the employment and company documents. A separate work permit is required to take up employment, and a residence permit for a longer stay.
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.