Apply eVisa

Djibouti Long-term Visa

For a longer stay in Djibouti, applicants may need to apply for a long-stay visa, depending on their nationality and purpose of travel. However, individuals intending to remain in the country for an extended period are generally required to obtain a residence permit after arrival, which serves as the primary authorisation for long-term stay. The process and requirements may vary based on individual circumstances.

What is a Djibouti Long-term Visa?

A Djibouti long-stay visa allows individuals to enter the country for purposes such as work, study, or other long-term activities. However, long-term stays are typically governed by a residence permit, which must be obtained after arrival in Djibouti. Document requirements and eligibility may vary by nationality and purpose of travel.

Having a visa does not guarantee entry, as immigration checks still apply.

Who Needs a Djibouti Long-term Visa?

A Djibouti visa and subsequent residence permit are generally required for individuals who plan to stay in the country beyond a short-term visit. This includes:

Foreign workers

Those seeking employment in Djibouti must obtain a work visa and relevant permits.

Students

Individuals enrolling in educational institutions need a student visa.

Business investors

Entrepreneurs or investors planning to establish or manage businesses in Djibouti.

Family reunification

Those joining family members who are legal residents or citizens of Djibouti.

Researchers and academics

Professionals conducting research or academic activities in the country.

Diplomats and government officials

Individuals on official missions requiring long-term stays.

Djibouti Long-term Visa Application Process

  • Contact the Embassy or Consulate: Confirm the specific visa requirements and application procedures with the nearest embassy or consulate.
  • Prepare Required Documents: Gather necessary documents and any additional documents requested.
  • Complete Application & Pay Fees: Fill out the Djibouti visa application form, pay the required fee, and apply for a residence permit after arrival to continue a long-term stay.
  • Submit & Wait for Processing: Submit your application with all required documents and wait for processing. Once approved, collect your visa from the embassy or consulate.

Required Documents for Djibouti Long-term Visa

  1. A Valid Passport and Copy of the Biopage
    • Validity: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended stay in Djibouti.
    • Blank Pages: Should have at least 2 to 3 blank pages for visa stamps.
    • Condition: Must be in good condition, with no significant damage or missing pages.
    • Copies: Some embassies may require copies of the passport’s bio-data page (the page with your photo and personal details).
    • Previous Visas: If applicable, provide copies of previous Djibouti visas or any relevant travel history.
  1. Passport-Size photograph: A clear recent passport-size photograph with a white background. 
  2. Travel Itinerary: Hotel/accommodation booking/reservation with the full address (name, street, city, zip code, contact information, booking ref.) and Flight reservations
  3. Criminal Background Check Certificate: Issued by the applicant’s home country or country of residence.
  4. Medical Certificate: Issued by a registered medical practitioner.
  5. Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements, payslips, or other financial documents proving sufficient funds for the stay in Djibouti.
  6. Additional Supporting Documents: Purpose-related documents, such as an invitation letter, employment contract, or university acceptance letter, may be required.

Djibouti Long-Term Visa Fees 

The fees for a Djibouti long-term visa vary depending on the embassy/consulate and the type of visa being applied for. Generally, the fees for a Djibouti visa include the following:

  • Application fee: This fee covers processing the visa application and is non-refundable.
  • Shipping fee: Applicants may also need to pay a shipping fee to have their passport and visa documents returned to them by courier.

Djibouti Long-term Visa Processing Time

Processing can take several weeks or months, depending on the purpose of travel and the application details. Interviews or additional documents may extend timelines. Apply well in advance to avoid delays.

Djibouti Long-term Visa Extension Process

For extended stays in Djibouti, individuals are generally required to maintain a valid residence permit. Any renewal or extension must be processed through the relevant immigration authorities before the authorised stay expires.

Conversion of a Djibouti Long-term Visa to Permanent Residency

Djibouti provides long-term stay options through entry visas and residence permits issued by the relevant authorities. Individuals intending to remain in the country for an extended period are generally required to obtain a residence permit after entry.

The conditions, eligibility criteria, and duration of residence permits may vary depending on the purpose of stay, such as employment, business, or family-related reasons. Approval is subject to immigration regulations and is not automatically granted.

Travelling In and Out of Djibouti with a Long-term Visa

  • Multiple Entries: If your visa allows multiple entries, you can leave and return to Djibouti without needing a new visa, as long as your current visa is valid.
  • Single Entry Visa: With a single-entry visa, once you leave Djibouti, your visa becomes invalid, and you'll need to apply for a new one to return.
  • Documents: Always carry your passport and visa, and be ready to show other documents, such as accommodation details or a return ticket, when travelling.
  • Re-entry Process: When returning to Djibouti, immigration will check your visa and may ask about your stay.
  • Stay Duration: Make sure not to overstay your visa, as this can cause problems when re-entering Djibouti.
  • Check with Authorities: For any questions or specific details, contact the nearby Djibouti embassy or consulate.

Content Disclaimer: While this information was last updated in April 2026, we strongly suggest confirming all travel details with the appropriate governmental agencies, embassies, and airlines.