The Ethiopian Immigration and Citizenship Service (ICS) announced that it has issued more than 1.04 million visas during the Ethiopian Fiscal Year ended July 7, 2026.
The Director General of the Service, Ms. Selamawit Dawit, recalled that three years ago the institution issued only 276,000 visas annually. She noted that the issuance of 1.04 million visas during the 2018 fiscal year represents more than a fourfold increase.
She attributed this achievement to improvements in the visa issuance system, the expansion of digital services, and the modernization of air and land border management. She also highlighted that the newly introduced Stopover and Transit Visa services are contributing to the growth of tourism and travel.
Ms. Selamawit Dawit further explained that Ethiopia currently provides visa services to citizens of more than 194 countries through its e-Visa system, Ethiopian diplomatic missions abroad, and Visa on Arrival options, demonstrating the broad accessibility of the country’s visa services.
She emphasized that these measures, aimed at increasing tourist arrivals, attracting foreign investment, strengthening trade relations, and facilitating the free movement of people, are accelerating Ethiopia’s development while respecting individuals’ right to freedom of movement.
Looking ahead, Ms. Selamawit Dawit stated that efforts will continue to expand and modernize visa and other immigration services in order to make Ethiopia a preferred destination for international travelers and investors.
