On April 29, 2024, the EU Council temporarily suspended certain elements of the EU law that regulates the issuing of visas to Ethiopian nationals. In particular, it will no longer be possible for member states:
- to waive requirements with regard to the evidence to be submitted by Ethiopian visa applicants
- to issue multiple entry visas
- to waive the visa fee for holders of diplomatic and service passports
Furthermore, the standard visa-processing period now becomes 45 calendar days instead of 15.
This decision follows an assessment by the EU Commission, which concludes that cooperation by Ethiopia in the field of readmission of its nationals illegally staying in the EU is insufficient. The suspension decision is temporary but does not come with a specific end date. The Commission will continue to assess any progress made on readmission cooperation.
Erickson Insights & Analysis
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