Eritrea is a small East African state located on the Red Sea. And although the country sometimes faces difficulties in relations with neighbouring Ethiopia, it, paradoxically, remains one of the most peaceful, safe, and hospitable places in Africa. Eritrea has great potential and development opportunities, and the capital Asmara boasts a unique collection of colonial architectural monuments and hundreds of kilometres of coastline.

How to come to Eritrea: a detailed guide on visa issues

All foreign nationals require a visa to enter Eritrea, whether you are a tourist or with the intention of staying for permanent residence (PR). All visas must be obtained in advance from an Eritrean embassy or consulate before the resident leaves their country. In addition, travel agencies can also assist in obtaining a visa permit for visiting an East African state. The main list of documents and requirements:

1. Original and photocopy of a valid national passport, valid for at least 6 months.

2. Photos 3.5 by 4.5, light background - 2 pieces.

3. Application form completed by the applicant.

4. Documents confirming the guarantees of sufficient funds for travel and accommodation. This can be a bank statement on a current account or a sponsorship letter.

5. Registration of an international insurance policy. 

6. Payment of the consular fee.

Thus, there are several types of visas to Eritrea and the list of documents can be updated depending on the purpose of the trip:

1. Tourist visa. Designed for single entry only. It is valid for 30 days from the date of arrival in Eritrea, starting at $40. The amount of the visa fee depends solely on the country of residence of the applicant. Additional documents must be:

• a voucher from the hotel as proof of residence in the country;

• air ticket with the return date of departure;

• in the case of a group trip - the tour program.

2. Business visa. Issued for short-term commercial activities in Eritrea Requirements:

• letter of invitation from an Eritrean business partner;

• a detailed description of the purpose of the visit and the nature of the activities to be carried out;

• the applicant is obliged to provide the necessary information about his professional affiliation.

This type of visa can be extended by applying to the Eritrean immigration office.

3. Temporary work visa is for people working in an organization. An additional document is a copy of the employment contract.

4. A student visa allows its holder to study at an institution of higher education in Eritrea. To do this, you need to submit an official letter from an educational institution confirming the admission to an Eritrean university.

5. An Eritrean marriage visa is issued for a long period of time-based on a proven relationship with an Eritrean citizen or resident. An additional document that needs to be submitted to the consulate is the original marriage certificate.

6. Visa for permanent residence. There is no residence permit, as well as a permanent residence in Eritrea. In this country, there is only obtaining the status of citizenship. An Eritrean passport can be obtained in very exceptional cases.

Permanent residence in Eritrea: the subtleties of obtaining

As mentioned above, Eritrea's residence permit and permanent residence cannot be obtained. Foreign residents and stateless persons can obtain a special residence permit from the Department of Immigration and Citizenship of Eritrea with a validity period of 3 months to 1 year. If a foreign citizen arrives for work, he must issue a work permit at the Eritrean State Security Administration.