Djibouti is a strategically located nation in the Horn of Africa and serves as an important diplomatic, security, and trade hub. It hosts multiple embassies, consulates, foreign military missions, and international organizations.
Foreign government officials, diplomats, and representatives of international organizations traveling to Djibouti for official duties must obtain a Diplomatic or Official Visa, which is not part of the Djibouti eVisa system and is not issued online.
Djibouti issues two special types of visas for government officials and international representatives:
|
Feature |
Diplomatic Visa |
Official Visa |
|
Eligibility |
Diplomats, heads of state, high-ranking officials |
Government employees, international organization staff, technical experts |
|
Passport Type |
Diplomatic passports |
Service/official passports |
|
Purpose |
Official state duties |
Official business, meetings, intergovernmental events, aid missions |
|
Privileges |
Grants diplomatic immunities per Vienna Convention |
No diplomatic immunities, but allows official entry |
|
Private Travel |
Not permitted |
Not permitted |
Both visa types are strictly for government and official duties and do not permit private travel or tourism.
The following individuals must obtain a Diplomatic or Official Visa before entering Djibouti:
Diplomatic and official visa requirements may also vary based on bilateral agreements between Djibouti and the applicant’s country.
Applying for a Diplomatic or Official Visa to Djibouti involves several specific steps and requirements. Here's a concise guide to assist you through the process:
The Djiboutian government, embassy, or hosting institution must issue an official invitation letter stating:
Applicants must submit the following documents:
UN officials and representatives of international organizations must provide an official letter confirming their mission to Djibouti.
Applications are submitted through:
Some bilateral agreements exempt diplomatic visa holders from fees. Official visa fees may apply based on reciprocal agreements.
Urgent requests may be processed faster for high-ranking officials or special delegations.
Diplomatic and official visas for Djibouti are issued for a fixed period based on the purpose of the visit, with extensions possible for extended official assignments or duties.
|
Visa Type |
Validity |
Extensions |
|
Short-Term Diplomatic Visa |
30 days |
Extensions granted in special cases. |
|
Long-Term Diplomatic Visa |
1–3 years (for embassy staff & diplomats) |
Renewable based on mission duration. |
|
Official Visa |
30 days |
Extension possible for ongoing assignments. |
Diplomatic staff assigned to embassies in Djibouti can receive multi-entry long-term visas.
Diplomats and official personnel may enjoy the following privileges under international diplomatic law:
Privileges vary based on the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations and bilateral treaties.
Diplomatic visitors to Djibouti must adhere to specific entry and travel protocols to ensure a smooth and official stay.
Coordinate with your embassy for airport protocol arrangements.
Diplomatic visas are for senior diplomats and government officials on official duties, while official visas are issued to government staff, international organization personnel, and technical experts on official assignments.
Visa validity depends on the nature of the assignment, with short-term visas issued for specific events and long-term visas granted for extended official stays.
Yes, extensions may be granted for diplomats and officials who need to stay longer for official duties. Requests for extensions must be submitted to Djibouti’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs before the visa expires.
In most cases, these visas are issued free of charge, but it is advisable to confirm with the Djiboutian embassy or consulate handling the application.
Yes, Diplomatic visa holders receive full privileges and immunities under the Vienna Convention, while official visa holders may receive limited privileges and must follow local laws in Djibouti.
Content Disclaimer: While this information was last updated in 2026, we strongly suggest confirming all travel details with the appropriate governmental agencies, embassies, and airlines.
