If you're planning to visit Djibouti, you will need a visa unless you are from a visa-exempt country. Djibouti offers two main visa options for travelers:
- Djibouti eVisa (Electronic Visa) – Applied for and issued online.
- Djibouti Traditional Visa (Embassy or Consulate Visa) – Applied for at an embassy or consulate.
Choosing between these two visa types depends on factors such as processing time, convenience, cost, eligibility, and purpose of travel. This guide provides a detailed comparison between the Djibouti eVisa and traditional visa to help you decide the best option for your trip.
Overview of Djibouti eVisa vs. Traditional Visa
When traveling to Djibouti, visitors can choose between a Djibouti eVisa or a traditional embassy visa. Below is a comparison of the key differences between the two visa types.
|
Feature |
Djibouti eVisa |
Traditional Visa |
|
Application Method |
Online via Djibouti eVisa portal |
In-person at an embassy or consulate |
|
Processing Time |
4 - 7 Working Days |
Varies (1–3 weeks or more) |
|
Convenience |
Can be applied from anywhere |
Requires visiting an embassy |
|
Eligibility |
Available to most nationalities |
Available to all nationalities |
|
Entry Type |
Single entry only |
Single or multiple entries available |
|
Visa Duration |
14 or 90 days |
Varies (30 days to 1 year, depending on visa type) |
|
Validity Period |
Starts from entry date |
Varies, may start from issue date |
|
Required Documents |
Passport, photo, flight & accommodation proof |
Additional documents (e.g., invitation letter, financial proof) |
|
Cost |
Fixed fees based on duration |
Varies by nationality and visa type |
|
Purpose |
Tourism, short business trips |
Business, work, residency, study |
|
Availability |
Only valid at Djibouti-Ambouli International Airport |
Valid at all entry points (airports, land borders, and seaports) |
What is Djibouti eVisa?
The Djibouti eVisa is an electronic visa that allows travelers to enter Djibouti without visiting an embassy. The application process is fully online, and once approved, the visa is emailed to the traveler.
Pros of Djibouti eVisa
Opting for a Djibouti eVisa offers several advantages, making the application process faster and more convenient for travelers. Here are some key benefits:
- Convenient & Fast – Apply from anywhere in the world, no embassy visits required.
- Quick Processing – Usually approved within 2 - 4 Working Days .
- Lower Costs – Standardized fees without extra processing or handling charges.
- Simple Documentation – Requires fewer supporting documents than traditional visas.
- Secure & Trackable – Apply through the official Djibouti eVisa portal and track application status online.
Cons of Djibouti eVisa
- Single Entry Only – Each visit requires a new eVisa.
- Limited Entry Points – Only valid for arrival at Djibouti-Ambouli International Airport.
- Not for Work or Long-Term Stay – Cannot be used for employment, residency, or study purposes.
What is a Djibouti Traditional Visa?
The traditional visa (embassy or consulate visa) is obtained by visiting a diplomatic mission. This type of visa is necessary for those seeking longer stays, multiple entries, or work permits.
The pros and cons of the Djibouti Traditional Visa:
|
Pros |
Cons |
|
✅ Multiple Entry Options – Allows single or multiple entries based on visa type. |
❌ Time-Consuming Process – Requires an in-person visit to an embassy. |
|
✅ Longer Validity – Some visas permit stays of 6 months to 1 year. |
❌ Longer Processing Time – Can take weeks, depending on embassy workload. |
|
✅ Can Be Used for Work & Residency – Required for employment, investment, or study. |
❌ Higher Costs – Additional fees for interviews, document processing, or courier services. |
|
✅ Valid at All Entry Points – Usable at airports, land borders, and seaports. |
❌ More Documentation Required – May need financial proof, health records, or employer letters. |
When Should You Choose an eVisa vs. a Traditional Visa?
Deciding between a Djibouti eVisa and a traditional visa depends on your travel purpose, duration, and entry point. While the eVisa offers a quick and convenient way to enter the country, a traditional visa may be necessary for longer stays or specific activities.
Choose a Djibouti e-Visa if:
- You need a short-term visa (up to 90 days).
- You are traveling for tourism or short business trips .
- You only need a single-entry visa.
- You are arriving at Djibouti-Ambouli International Airport.
- You prefer a fast, simple, and online application process.
Choose a Djibouti Traditional Visa if:
- You need a long-term visa (more than 90 days).
- You require a multiple-entry visa.
- You are traveling for work, investment, study, or residency.
- You plan to enter via land borders or seaports.
- You need special approvals, such as a diplomatic visa or work permit.
– Djibouti eVisa is best for: Tourists, business travelers, and short-term visitors who meet eVisa eligibility requirements.
– Djibouti traditional Visa is best for Business People, expatriates, students, investors, and workers needing extended stays in Djibouti.
Key Differences in the Application Process
The application process for a Djibouti eVisa and a traditional visa varies in terms of convenience, processing time, and requirements. The eVisa process is entirely online, making it faster and more accessible for short-term travelers. In contrast, a traditional visa requires an in-person visit to an embassy or consulate, making it more suitable for long-term stays or specific visa types. Below is a step-by-step comparison of both processes:
Djibouti eVisa Application Process (Online)
Djibouti eVisa has a simplified application process and can be done in a few minutes. Here are the steps to follow during application;
- Apply Online – Visit the Application Portal and fill out the Djibouti eVisa application form with your details.
- Submit Documents & Pay – Upload required documents (passport, photo, travel details) and pay the visa fee online.
- Receive & Print eVisa – Get your eVisa via email within 3–5 business days and present it upon arrival in Djibouti.
Djibouti Traditional Visa Application Process (Embassy Visit)
To apply for a Djibouti Traditional visa, here are steps to follow:
- Find the Embassy – Locate the nearest Djibouti embassy or consulate.
- Prepare Documents – Complete the visa application form and gather required documents (passport, invitation letter, proof of funds, medical certificate, etc.).
- Schedule & Submit – Book an appointment (if needed), submit your application, and pay the visa fee.
- Attend Interview (If Required) – Some applicants may need to attend an interview at the embassy.
- Receive Your Visa – Wait for approval (1–3 weeks), collect your visa, and verify details before traveling.
Conclusion: Which Djibouti Visa is Right for You?
Choosing between a Djibouti eVisa and a traditional visa depends on your travel needs, duration of stay, and entry points. While the eVisa offers a quick and convenient online application for short-term visits, a traditional visa provides more flexibility for long-term stays and multiple entries.
Choose an eVisa if you want:
✔ A faster, online process with no embassy visits.
✔ A visa for short-term travel (14–90 days).
✔ A visa valid for Djibouti-Ambouli International Airport entry only.
Choose a Traditional Visa if you need:
✔ A longer stay (over 90 days).
✔ A multiple-entry visa.
✔ A visa for work, residency, study, or investment.
✔ To enter via land borders or seaports.
Ultimately, your choice depends on your purpose of travel, required duration, and preferred application process.
Frequently Asked Questions
The eVisa is applied for online and is only valid for short-term stays, while a traditional visa requires an embassy visit and offers more flexibility for longer stays and multiple entries.
No, the eVisa is only valid for entry through Djibouti-Ambouli International Airport. Traditional visas allow entry through all borders.
Most nationalities are eligible for the eVisa, but some may still need to apply for a traditional visa. It’s best to check the official Djibouti visa website.
The eVisa allows a stay of up to 90 days, while traditional visas can be issued for longer durations, depending on the visa type.
No, the eVisa is only for tourism or short business visits. To work in Djibouti, you must apply for a work visa through the embassy.
Conent 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.