Due to its advantageous position and strong infrastructure, the tiny Horn of Africa nation of Djibouti has seen tremendous economic progress in recent years. Because of this, the nation has grown to be a desirable location for international investors and company owners wishing to launch or grow their enterprises in East Africa.
The government launched the Djibouti Business eVisa, an online visa application system to support business travel. This digital process eliminates the need to visit an embassy or consulate, making visa applications faster and more convenient.
What is Djibouti Business eVisa?
Djibouti eVisa is an electronic visa that allows foreign nationals to visit Djibouti for business purposes. It is a single-entry visa that allows a stay of up to 90 days in Djibouti. The Djibouti Business eVisa is issued by the immigration authorities and is linked electronically to the traveller's passport.
Purpose of the Djibouti Business eVisa
The Djibouti Business eVisa is specifically designed for travellers visiting the country for business purposes, including:
- Business meetings
- Negotiating contracts
- Conferences and trade shows
- Market research
- Other professional activities
Requirements for Djibouti Business eVisa application
To apply for a Djibouti Business eVisa, you need to fulfil the following requirements:
- A Valid Passport: You must have a valid passport with at least six months of validity from the date of entry into Djibouti.
- Passport photo: You need to provide a recent passport-sized photograph in colour.
- Proof of purpose of visit: You must provide proof of your purpose of visit, such as a letter of invitation from a business partner or conference organiser in Djibouti or any other relevant document that explains the reason for your visit.
- Travel itinerary: You must provide a copy of your travel itinerary, including flight reservations and hotel bookings.
- Payment of visa fee: You need to pay the visa fee using a valid credit or debit card.
- Contact details: You need to provide your contact details, including your email address and phone number.
- Basic personal information: You need to provide your basic personal information, such as your full name, date of birth, nationality, and passport number.
How do you apply for a Djibouti business eVisa?
Depending on your country, you may also have the option to apply online, making the process more convenient by allowing you to complete and submit your application digitally.
Djibouti Business eVisa Application Process
To apply for a Djibouti Business eVisa, follow the steps below:
Step 1: Fill the Form: Visit the Djibouti eVisa website, use the Djibouti eVisa Application Form select the business eVisa option, fill out the application form, and upload the required documents.
Step 2: Pay & Submit the Form: Pay the visa fee online using a credit or debit card, then submit your application and wait for confirmation.
Step 3: Receive Your Djibouti Business eVisa: Once approved, the eVisa will be emailed to you. Print a copy and carry it when travelling to Djibouti.
It is recommended to apply for the Djibouti Business eVisa at least seven days before the intended travel date to allow for any processing delays.
Djibouti Business eVisa fees and processing time
- Fee Dependency: Your nationality and the processing time option you select affect the fee for a Djibouti business eVisa.
- Processing Options
- Standard Processing: Typically takes 4 - 7 Working Days. No additional fee is charged. This option is suitable for flexible applications.
- Rush Processing: For those who need their eVisa faster but not immediately, this option reduces processing time to as little as 3 - 5 Working Days at an extra fee.
- Super Rush Processing: Those who need a visa immediately must select the super-rush processing option. It offers the fastest turnaround for immediate approval, with the highest charges applied. Through the super-rush processing, the application gets processed within 2 - 4 Working Days
- Fee Checking: For exact fee details, visit the Djibouti eVisa fee website, which features a handy fee-checking tool to calculate your cost based on nationality and chosen processing speed.
Validity and Extension of Djibouti Business eVisa
- Single-Entry Validity: The Djibouti Business eVisa is a single-entry visa that permits a stay of up to 90 days.
- Non-Extendable: The visa cannot be extended beyond the initial 90-day period.
- Reapplication Requirement: Once you exit Djibouti, the visa becomes invalid; a new visa is required for any future visits.
- Overstay Penalties: Overstaying the visa can result in fines, deportation, or additional penalties.
- Compliance Reminder: It is essential to adhere to the visa validity period and follow all entry and exit requirements to avoid issues with authorities.
Tracking Your Djibouti Business eVisa Status
- Unique ID and Passport Number: Use your unique application ID and passport number to check the status.
- Confirmation Details: After you submit your application, you will receive these details in your confirmation email.
- Pro Tip: Double-check your application ID and passport number when tracking your status to ensure accurate updates.
Difference between Djibouti Business eVisa & Djibouti Traditional Business Visa
The application process is the main difference between the Djibouti Business eVisa and the Djibouti Traditional Business Visa.
Feature |
Djibouti Business eVisa |
Djibouti Traditional Business Visa |
Application Method |
Online application |
In-person application at the embassy or consulate |
Processing Time |
4 - 7 Working Days, and expedited processing is available. |
Varies (may take longer due to document verification and appointments) |
Required Documents |
Passport copy, passport-size photo, proof of business purpose (uploaded online) |
Physical submission of documents, including invitation letters and additional paperwork |
Convenience |
Can be applied for remotely; no embassy visit is needed |
Requires a visit to the embassy or consulate |
Visa Type |
Single-entry, valid for up to 90 days |
May offer multiple-entry options, depending on embassy regulations |
Approval & Delivery |
eVisa is emailed to the applicant |
Visa is stamped in the passport upon approval |
Availability |
Available to eligible nationalities via the Djibouti eVisa portal |
Available for all nationalities at embassies and consulates |
The Business eVisa is a faster and more convenient option for short-term business visits. At the same time, the Traditional Business Visa may be preferred for those requiring multiple entries or longer stays.
Tips for a successful Djibouti Business eVisa application
Here are some tips to help ensure a successful Djibouti business eVisa application:
- Apply Early & Check Requirements: Submit your eVisa application at least seven days before travel to avoid delays. Make sure you have all the required documents before starting.
- Provide Accurate & Complete Information: Double-check that all details match your passport and supporting documents to prevent rejection.
- Upload Clear & High-Quality Documents: Ensure all uploaded files are clear, in colour, and meet the required specifications set by Djibouti Immigration.
- Pay the Visa Fee on Time: Use a valid credit or debit card to complete the payment, ensuring it is processed successfully.
- Keep a Copy & Follow Immigration Rules: Print your approved eVisa and carry it when travelling. Always comply with Djibouti's immigration laws during your stay.
Djibouti Business Visa vs. Work Visa
When travelling to Djibouti for professional reasons, it is important to understand the difference between a Business Visa and a Work Visa. While both allow foreigners to enter for work-related purposes, they serve different functions.
Feature |
Business Visa |
Work Visa |
Purpose |
Short-term business activities (meetings, conferences, market research) |
Long-term employment in Djibouti |
Employment Rights |
❌ Not allowed to work or earn a salary |
✅ Allows legal employment |
Validity |
Up to 90 days (single or multiple entry) |
Long-term, based on job contract |
Application Process |
Online (eVisa) or at an embassy |
Requires employer sponsorship and government approval |
Renewal |
Usually not renewable |
Renewable based on employment contract |
Who Needs It? |
Business visitors, investors, or conference attendees |
Foreigners seeking jobs or already hired by a Djiboutian company |
Which One Do You Need?
- If you’re attending meetings, exploring business opportunities, or negotiating contracts, a Business Visa is sufficient.
- If you plan to live and work in Djibouti long-term, you’ll need a Work Visa, sponsored by your employer.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, a Djibouti Business eVisa is specifically designed for business purposes only, and travelers who wish to visit Djibouti for tourism must apply for a different type of visa.
If the application is approved, the eVisa will be issued and sent to the applicant's email address.
No, travellers must carry their passport and other necessary travel documents with them when entering Djibouti, in addition to the Djibouti Business eVisa.
No, a Djibouti Business eVisa must be obtained prior to travel to the country.
Content Disclaimer: While this information was last updated in February 2025, we strongly suggest confirming all travel details with the appropriate governmental agencies, embassies, and airlines.