Ethiopia student visa (SV) and residence ID

The SV is for foreign nationals entering Ethiopia temporarily to follow a course of study. The portal asks for proof that the applicant has been offered a place on a full-time course at a recognised educational institution, together with a confirmation of residency, and an acceptance letter from the institution where the study will take place.

The ICS service page for student visas adds proof that tuition has been paid or details of a scholarship, and proof of sufficient means to support yourself during the stay. ICS may ask for further documents.

The portal publishes one option: a single-entry SV for 30 days at USD 62. Its validity starts on the intended entry date. The SV cannot be extended, so the student must move on to a residence ID within that window.

ICS issues a Temporary ID, which gives temporary residence status for a limited period, to students as well as to company employees, shareholders and journalists. For a student, the application to ICS includes a letter from the Ministry of Education addressed to ICS, a copy of the passport, the valid visa and the entry stamp.

When the residence permit needs renewing, ICS asks for the original and a copy of the current permit, the passport, a renewal form, two photos, proof of continuous residence such as a rental agreement or utility bills, the renewal fee and any other documents requested. Renewal must be done before the permit expires; a lost permit needs a police report and an additional payment.

ICS states that most applications take about 5 to 10 business days and that some take longer. A refused applicant receives a notice with the reasons and can appeal or reapply after addressing them. Status can be checked online with the reference number.