Ethiopia Introduces 10-Year Golden Visa to Attract Foreign Investors
Ethiopia's Immigration and Citizenship Service (ICS) has launched a 10-year residency permit - the Golden Visa - targeting foreign nationals making significant economic contributions to the country. Announced on 29 March 2026, the standardised electronic permit is designed to provide long-term stability for high-impact investors, allowing them to reside and operate in Ethiopia with reduced bureaucratic hurdles. A separate five-year property visa will also be introduced for individuals and families acquiring immovable property in the country, coinciding with Ethiopia's opening of its real estate sector to foreign nationals.
The initiative forms part of the government's broader economic reform agenda, with ICS Deputy Director-General Gosa Demissie noting that the Golden Visa will streamline entry and exit procedures, cut processing times, and eliminate repetitive administrative steps - including faster processing at Addis Ababa's Bole International Airport. Alongside the new visa scheme, ICS has rolled out a range of modernised services, including digital payment systems, enhanced visa-on-arrival options, and improved passport distribution to clear existing backlogs. The measures reflect Ethiopia's ambition to position itself as a competitive investment destination on the African continent.
Source: Ethiopian News Agency
