Djibouti Visa on Arrival (2026): Rules, Eligibility, Fees, and Step-by-Step Application Guide

Djibouti welcomes travelers with a streamlined visa on arrival (VOA) option at Djibouti–Ambouli International Airport, alongside the ability to obtain a visa in advance from a Djiboutian embassy or consulate. In 2026, understanding exactly who qualifies, what it costs, and which documents to carry will help you breeze through immigration and start your trip smoothly.

What Changed Recently? Visa on Arrival vs. eVisa in 2026

• The government discontinued the eVisa system in 2025 and emphasized two lawful channels:

  1. Visa on Arrival at the airport, and/or

  2. Advance visa from a Djiboutian embassy/consulate.

• Practically, most genuine tourists and business visitors can obtain VOA at the airport, provided they meet standard entry conditions (see below).

• Airlines still conduct document checks at departure. If your nationality is flagged by the carrier or subject to extra clearance, you may be required to hold a pre-issued visa.

Editorial note: Policies can change without notice; carry printed confirmations where possible and verify requirements near your travel date.

Who Is Eligible for Djibouti Visa on Arrival in 2026?

General entry conditions & nationality notes

Most travelers can receive a single-entry VOA on arrival when they:

• Hold a passport valid for 6+ months from entry date (with 1–2 blank pages).

• Present a return/onward ticket and confirmed accommodation (hotel booking or host address).

• Can show proof of funds for their stay (cash, bank statement, or corporate sponsor letter).

• Are not subject to a specific pre-clearance or security restriction (varies by nationality, travel history, or airline policy).

Who should apply in advance at an embassy/consulate

• Travelers with non-machine-readable passports or limited validity.

• Work, study, journalism, long-stay or multiple-entry needs.

• Nationals for whom airlines or immigration require prior authorization.

• Those who want to avoid any risk at boarding (families with kids, tight connections, or high-season travelers).

Djibouti Visa on Arrival Fees, Validity & Processing

Current fee at the airport

• Indicative VOA fee: USD 23 (paid at the airport). Keep small bills; card acceptance can be inconsistent.

• Some travelers may be charged additional administrative or security fees based on purpose and stay length.

Validity, number of entries & extensions

• VOA is typically issued as single-entry.

• Permitted stay is stamped by immigration (commonly up to 30 days, but may vary by nationality and purpose).

• Extensions are possible in Djibouti City via the Immigration/Police authorities—start the process at least 7–10 days before your permission expires.

Processing time at Ambouli International Airport

• Average 15–45 minutes at the visa counter, plus standard immigration queues. Peak times and flight banks can add delays.

Required Documents for Visa on Arrival (Tourist/Business)

Mandatory documents

• Passport (6+ months validity)

• Printed return/onward ticket

• Accommodation proof (hotel voucher or host invitation with address/phone)

• Recent passport photo (white background)

• Purpose of visit evidence (e.g., brief itinerary for tourists; business letter/card for business travelers)

Recommended extras to avoid delays

• Travel insurance covering health & emergency evacuation

• Proof of funds (cash + recent bank statement)

• Yellow fever certificate if arriving from/transiting through a YF-risk country

• A local contact (tour operator or hotel front desk number)

Step-by-Step: How to Get Djibouti Visa on Arrival at the Airport

1. Deplane & follow “Visa/Immigration” signs.

2. Collect/complete VOA form (if provided) and queue at the Visa on Arrival window.

3. Submit documents (passport, ticket, accommodation, photo).

4. Pay the visa fee (preferably in USD cash). Keep the receipt.

5. Receive visa sticker and proceed to Immigration for your entry stamp showing permitted stay dates.

6. Verify the validity on the stamp before you leave the counter. If anything is incorrect, politely request a correction.

Transit Through Djibouti: Do You Need a Visa?

• Airside transit without leaving the international zone generally does not require a visa.

• If you must change terminals, collect bags, or exit airside, you’ll need VOA or a pre-issued visa.

• Always confirm with your airline—transit rules can vary by ticket type and operating carrier.

Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Rejection

• Insufficient passport validity (<6 months) → renew before travel.

• No accommodation proof → carry printed hotel confirmation with contact details.

• One-way ticket only → bring a return/onward booking (even a flexible one).

• Assuming multi-entry on VOA → plan single-entry; use an embassy visa for multiple entries.

• Arriving without cash → carry small USD notes for fees; ATMs/cards may fail.

Scam Alert: “Employment Contract” Visa Traps to Avoid

Beware of offers claiming “visa on arrival with employment contract”.

• VOA is not a work visa. Working without the proper work authorization violates Djiboutian law and can lead to fines, detention, or deportation.

• Only accept employment through legitimate channels with a pre-approved work permit and entry visa.

• If in doubt, apply via an embassy/consulate and demand official documentation from the employer.

When to Choose Embassy/Consulate Visa Instead of VOA

• You require multiple entries, longer stay, or special activities (media, technical projects).

• Your nationality is routinely asked for prior clearance.

• You want zero risk at boarding (tight schedules, group travel, or high seasons).

Travel Practicalities: Cash, Cards, and Arrival Tips

• Djibouti is a cash-leaning economy; carry USD/EUR plus Djiboutian Franc (DJF) for taxis and tips.

• Keep small bills for visa fees and incidentals.

• Pre-book a reputable transfer from the airport—metered taxis are limited, and prices vary.

• Respect local customs (modest dress away from beaches/hotel pools; be discreet during Ramadan; avoid photographing government, military, ports, bridges).

Why Apply with Our Professional Service (Reliability & Support)

• Pre-travel verification: We review your profile and advise whether VOA or embassy visa is safer for your nationality and route.

• Error-free paperwork: We prepare compliant itinerary, lodging, and sponsor letters where needed.

• On-call assistance: If airline staff question your VOA eligibility, our team provides documentation and guidance.

• Extension guidance: Need more time in Djibouti? We brief you on the extension office, forms, and timing.

Clear CTA: Apply for Your Djibouti Visa with Confidence

Start now to avoid last-minute surprises. Our specialists make your Djibouti entry fast, compliant, and stress-free.
Apply for your Djibouti Visa today with DjiboutiVisaOnline — Fast. Reliable. Secure.

Conclusion: Smooth Entry to Djibouti in 2026

Djibouti remains accessible in 2026 with a practical Visa on Arrival pathway for genuine visitors. Arrive prepared—passport validity, printed bookings, funds, and the VOA fee—and you’ll clear immigration quickly. If you need longer stays or multiple entries, choose an embassy/consulate visa.

Ready to go? Apply with our team today and enter Djibouti with confidence.