Djibouti Short-term Visa via Embassy

What is a Djibouti Short-term Visa?

A Djibouti Short-term Visa is a temporary visa issued to foreign nationals who wish to visit Djibouti for a limited period. It is typically granted for purposes such as tourism, business, family visits, or transit.

Key Features of the Djibouti Short-term Visa:

• Validity: Usually valid for up to 90 days.
• Entry Type: Can be issued as a single-entry or multiple-entry visa .
• Purpose of Travel: Suitable for short stays related to tourism, business meetings, family visits, or transit.
• Application Process: Can be obtained online as an eVisa or through a Djibouti embassy/consulate depending on the applicant’s nationality and travel needs.

This visa is ideal for travelers who do not intend to stay in Djibouti for an extended period but need temporary entry for specific purposes.

Who Needs a Djibouti Short-term Visa?

A Djibouti Short-term Visa is required for travelers who wish to visit Djibouti temporarily for tourism, business, family visits, or transit.

Who Needs to Apply for a Djibouti Short term visa?

1. Tourists – Visitors planning to explore Djibouti’s attractions, such as its beaches, national parks, and cultural sites.
2. Business Travelers – Individuals attending meetings, conferences, or engaging in short-term business activities.
3. Family Visitors – People visiting relatives or friends residing in Djibouti.
4. Transit Passengers – Travelers passing through Djibouti on their way to another country (if required based on nationality).

Who May Be Exempt from a Djibouti short term visa?

• Citizens of visa-exempt countries (if applicable under Djibouti’s agreements).
• Holders of diplomatic or official passports (depending on agreements between Djibouti and their country).

What are the Essential Requirements for a Djibouti Short-term Visa?

Below are the documents required for obtaining a Djibouti short-term visa:

1. Completed and Signed Application Form: The Djibouti visa application form must be duly filled and signed by the applicant.
2. Valid Passport and Copy of the Main Page: The passport should be valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended arrival date in Djibouti, signed by the holder, and not more than 10 years old. The passport should also have at least one or two blank visa pages, and undamaged pictures securely affixed.
3. One Passport Size Photo: One passport size photo in white background is required.
4. Travel Itinerary: The applicant must provide proof of a valid hotel or accommodation booking/reservation with the full address, contact information, and booking reference. Additionally, the applicant must also provide proof of flight reservations.
5. Invitation Letter (If Applicable): In case of an invitation, the applicant must provide a letter detailing the name and contact information of the inviting person/company in Djibouti, as well as the purpose of the visit.

Supporting Documents Based on Purpose of Travel

The following documents are required for each purpose of travel:

• Tourism: Proof of accommodation (hotel confirmation, apartment rental contract, etc.)
• Business/Congress/Sports Travel: Original invitation letter from the company/organization and proof of accommodation.
• Private Visit: Original invitation letter from the inviting person, the original document that confirms the ownership of the inviting person's home (if the applicant intends to stay there), and copies of the inviting person's passport and ID card/residence permit.
• Study: Original invitation letter from the educational establishment in Djibouti, acceptance letter to education establishment in Djibouti, and proof of accommodation (apartment rental contract, dormitory contract, etc.).
• Employment: Original invitation letter from a company in Djibouti and proof of accommodation.

Note that additional documents may be required by the embassy, depending on the individual circumstances of the application.

How to Apply for a Djibouti Short-term Visa?

To apply for a Djibouti short-term visa, you will need to follow the steps outlined below:

Choose the Right Visa Type

Gather Required Documents

Complete and Submit the Application

1. Choose the Right Visa Type: Select a short-term visa for stays up to 90 days.
2. Gather Required Documents: Collect your passport, photo, itinerary, accommodation proof, and financial documents.
3. Complete and Submit the Application: Fill out the form, attach documents, and pay the fee at the embassy/consulate.
4. Wait for Processing & Collect Visa: Wait for approval, then collect your visa once processed.

What is the Processing Time for a Djibouti Short-term Visa?

The processing time for a Djibouti short-term visa typically ranges from a few days to several weeks, with the exact duration varying based on the embassy or consulate handling the application and the applicant's specific circumstances. To ensure timely processing, it's advisable to submit your application well ahead of planned travel dates, and expedited processing may be available for an additional fee at some diplomatic missions.

How Long is a Djibouti Short-term Visa Valid for?

A Djibouti short-term visa is typically valid for up to 90 days from the date of entry, allowing the visa holder to stay in the country for a maximum of three months. In most cases, this visa is issued as a single-entry visa, meaning that once the traveler leaves Djibouti, they must apply for a new visa to re-enter. However, depending on the purpose of the trip and the discretion of the issuing authority, a multiple-entry visa may be granted, allowing multiple visits within a validity period of up to six months. It is important for travelers to check their visa validity before entering Djibouti to avoid overstaying, which may result in penalties or legal consequences.

Can a Djibouti Short-term Visa be Extended?

Yes, it is possible to extend a Djibouti short-term visa, but the extension process is subject to approval by the immigration authorities. If a traveler wishes to extend their stay in Djibouti beyond the expiration of their short-term visa, they must apply for an extension at least one week before the expiration of their current visa. The extension request must be submitted to the immigration authorities, and it must include a valid reason for the extension, such as illness or unexpected circumstances. The extension process may take several days or even weeks, and travelers should plan accordingly and avoid overstaying their visa, as penalties and fines may apply for overstaying the permitted period of stay.

What to Expect at the Djibouti Embassy During the Visa Application Process?

When you visit the Djibouti embassy or consulate to apply for a Djibouti short-term visa, you can expect to go through the following steps:

1. Security Check: Undergo a security screening, including a metal detector scan and baggage inspection.
2. Document Verification: A consular officer checks your documents and may request corrections or missing papers.
3. Fee Payment: Pay the visa application fee, which varies by visa type, duration, and nationality. Payment methods differ by embassy.
4. Biometric Data: Provide fingerprints and a photograph for identity verification.
5. Interview (if required): Answer questions about your travel plans, purpose of visit, and ties to your home country.
6. Processing Time: The embassy processes your visa, with timelines varying by location and nationality.
7. Visa Collection: Once approved, collect your visa by presenting your passport or ID.

Visa procedures may differ by embassy or consulate, so it's best to check the latest requirements before applying.

Tips for a Successful Djibouti Short-term Visa Application

Here are some tips for a successful Djibouti short-term visa application:

• Apply Early: Start your visa application well before your travel date to avoid delays.
• Check Requirements: Ensure you meet all criteria and have the necessary documents.
• Provide Accurate Info: Fill out the application correctly to avoid rejection.
• Submit a Complete Application: Include all required documents and fees to prevent delays.
• Prepare for an Interview: Be ready to answer questions if an interview is required.
• Show Financial Proof: Provide evidence of sufficient funds for your trip.
• Apply on Time: Submit your application within the required timeframe.
• Follow Up: Check your application status with the embassy or consulate.

Djibouti Short-term Visa vs. eVisa: Which One to Choose?

Here’s a comparison of the Djibouti Short-term Visa and eVisa to applicants to determine which one to choose:

Which One to Choose?

Choose the Djibouti Short-term Visa if:

• You need a multiple-entry visa or longer stay.
• You prefer dealing with an embassy in person.
• You require a more flexible or specific type of visa.

Choose the Djibouti eVisa if:

• You’re looking for a quick, simple, and cost-effective way to visit.
• You’re traveling for tourism, business, or a family visit.
• You don’t need multiple entries or a longer duration stay.

Long-Term or Special Purpose Djibouti Visas

If you plan to stay in Djibouti for more than 90 days or need a visa for a specific purpose, such as work, study, or residence, you must apply for a long-term or special purpose visa through an embassy or consulate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for a Djibouti short-term visa via an embassy or consulate? What documents are required for a Djibouti short-term visa application via an embassy or consulate? How long does it take to process a Djibouti short-term visa application via an embassy or consulate? Is an interview required for a Djibouti short-term visa application via an embassy or consulate? How much does a Djibouti short-term visa via an embassy or consulate cost? Can I track the status of my Djibouti short-term visa application via an embassy or consulate?

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.