Djibouti

When traveling to Djibouti, your nationality and the types of activities you will conduct during your trip will determine whether you may travel lawfully as a business visitor or if work authorization will be required. Please seek advice from your immigration counsel if you are uncertain about the specific types of activities that constitute business or work.

What types of activities may I engage in as a business visitor?

As a business visitor to Djibouti, you may engage in the activities below. While this list is not exhaustive and other activities could qualify as business, you may:

• » Attend business meetings
• » Buy goods for sale outside the country
• » Tour a company facility
• » Attend a trade show or seminar convention

If I qualify as a business visitor, do I need a visa for Djibouti?

All foreign nationals traveling to Djibouti to participate in business activities must generally obtain an eVisa online, or a consular visa prior to travel. While some nationals may be eligible to obtain a Visa on Arrival, it is generally recommended that business visitors secure entry authorization before traveling. Please consult with your immigration counsel to confirm your eligibility for an eVisa, consular visa, or Visa on Arrival.

What types of activities require work authorization?

The activities below, whether paid or unpaid, generally constitute work under the law in Djibouti. This list is not exhaustive, and many other professional activities are considered work in Djibouti, even if conducted for a short duration.

• » Hands-on technical work
• » Repairs and maintenance
• » Installation and testing of software
• » Consulting

 
In limited circumstances, foreign nationals may engage in certain professional activities without obtaining work authorization as part of an after-sales agreement, although strict preconditions must be met. An individual assessment is required before deciding whether an after-sales exemption is applicable.

If I am traveling to Djibouti for work, what type of work authorization do I need?

Requirements for work authorization depend on your qualifications, on the nature and duration of your work, and on whether your employer has an entity in Djibouti. The most common type of work authorization for Djibouti is a Work Permit.

Is it possible to be exempted from work authorization requirements?

Djibouti offers limited exemptions to work authorization requirements for U.S. military and U.S. military contractors. However, additional registration and eligibility requirements may apply. Please consult with your immigration provider prior to travel for an individual assessment and additional information.

Inevitably, the legal and strategic considerations impacting visa selection, as well as visa waiver and work authorization eligibility, entail the careful consideration of many factors. We recommend that you consult with your immigration counsel before taking any course of action.

Copyright © 2022 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. Government immigration agencies often change their policies and practices without notice; please consult an immigration professional for up-to-date information. This document does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. BAL maintains comprehensive immigration information and processing specifics for our clients.