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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the requirements to obtain an Ethiopian Resident ID card?           

  • For staff members: Contract valid for at least one year, copy of passport biography page, copy of entry visa, service request forms, two passport-size photos
  • For eligible/registered dependents: Copy of staff member’s Resident ID, copy of passport biography page, copy of entry visa, service request form, two passport-size photos

Who is eligible to obtain Ethiopian Resident Id Card?

  • Ethiopian Resident ID Card is issued to staff members of the United Nations holding work contract of one year and above. The Red resident ID card is given for staff members and their spouses whereas the white resident card is rendered to their dependents. In addition, Directors (D1) Level, will get Blue Resident ID card and Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of the Commission will get Green ID card.

What is the maximum validity of a multiple entry visa?

For staff who are hired for less than one year, the validity of multiple entry visa is generally based on the duration of the staff member’s contract. For dependent children below 5 years of age, the validity of their visas will be in accordance with the validity of the staff members’ Resident ID card. Children who are above 5 years of age will get a resident ID card, instead of a multiple entry visa.

Who is eligible to be issued with a visa on arrival?

A visa on arrival can be issued to persons coming to UNECA to attend meetings, conferences, workshops, and trainings. It can also be issued to newly-recruited staff coming to take up duty at UNECA from countries where Ethiopia does not have an Embassy or a Consulate. The permit for visa on arrival is processed by the Protocol office, provided that the request is submitted at least two weeks prior to traveling. A list of countries where Ethiopian embassies and consulates are present can be found in Appendix 9. Holders of UNLP and Diplomatic Passports can get visa on arrival, gratis.                        

What procedures should I follow to facilitate the issuance of tourist visa for my relative who wishes to visit Ethiopia?

The staff member inviting his/her relative should fill the service request form, submit a copy of his/her Ethiopian Resident ID card, and a copy of the relative’s passport. Depending on the presence of an Ethiopian Embassy or Consulate, the Protocol and Liaison Services Unit will request either a visa on arrival or the issuance of an entry visa in the relative’s country of residence.

What are the procedures to be followed in the event that my Resident ID card is misplaced or stolen?

The staff member should obtain a police report, with the assistance of Security and Safety Services (SSS), and approach Protocol office for processing. N.B. Copy of ID card & one picture (passport size) is needed.

What are my rights at the airport if I am asked to open my luggage for inspection?

Holders of UNLP, Diplomatic, and Service Passports are exempted from inspection, provided that the entry date stamp is in the UNLP, Diplomatic, or Service Passport. However, if the security officer on duty deems it necessary, he/she may inspect the luggage.

My division/section is expecting high-level guests/participants for a conference that it is convening. How can their access to the diplomatic lounge at the airport be arranged for their arrival and departure?

Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs authorizes the use of VIP lounge, depending on the rank of the individual. If the guests qualify, Protocol can be approached to facilitate the use of the VIP lounge. In principle, foreign embassies accredited to Ethiopia are taking care of their respective Ministers and high officials.

My division/section is convening an event and high-level participants are expected to attend. What assistance can the the Protocol and Liaison Services Unit provide in terms of a seating plan, escorting/protocol, gift selection and exchange, accommodation, advice on social activities, and arranging appropriate transportation and liaison with government officials? 

While the leading role will be played by the meeting organizers, the Unit will provide limited support, provided the request comes from the meeting organizers.

What is the difference between Diplomatic rank and Functional title?

diplomat is a person appointed by a state to conduct negotiations with representatives of other states. Their letters of accreditation enable him or her to carry out duties on behalf of the country or institution that has accredited them. The diplomatic rank is given to a diplomat by the government as an indicator of their level in the diplomatic service. Such ranks include Ambassador, Counsellor, First Secretary, or Attaché, among others.


The functional title is a description of the diplomat's specific portfolio, if any, at a particular diplomatic station. Not every diplomat may have a functional title. Examples of such titles include Permanent Representative, Military Adviser, or Legal Officer.

The functional title is also the description of a non-diplomatic staff member's assignment. Such personnel do not have diplomatic ranks, and serve in functional capacities at the Missions. Examples of such titles include Secretary, Chauffeur, or Security Officer.


I have a new passport but my visa is in my expired passport, which passport do I have to submit to the Protocol Office?

Both passports have to be submitted.