As we know, the passport is the number one form of identity and international personal identification in the world. For this reason, we need passports for several purposes, including identity verification. If we need to travel to another country, we need a passport. Additionally, if we need to go to another country for work or any other purpose, we need a passport.

Many people are asking how they can get a passport in Ethiopia. Currently, the Ethiopian passport delivery system has been updated, and everything is transitioning to an online system. This means that if you need to get a passport in Ethiopia, your first steps must be completed online, followed by physical steps.

In today’s article, we will show you how to get a passport in Ethiopia in simple steps. I know getting a passport in Ethiopia can be a bit difficult because there is high demand, making the process crowded. Therefore, we need to use the simplest way to get a passport, which is by using the online application system. In this article, we will explain everything in detail. Please read to the end if you need to get a passport in Ethiopia.

Steps to Get a Passport in Ethiopia

Explore how you can get a passport in Ethiopia by following these simple step-by-step instructions. By following this guide, you can get your passport quickly.

Step 1: Apply Online

This is the first step to getting a passport easily. Visit the Ethiopian Immigration Service website to register yourself. To register, you need your birth certificate, your local kebele or if you have national ID, and 2,000 Birrs. If you fulfill these criteria, you first need to capture your documents with your mobile phone to submit them on the website. I will show you later. The required documents include your birth certificate and your local Kebele or national ID. then follow the following steps:

1. Go to the Ethiopian Passport Service website.
2. Upon arrival at the website, you will see three options. The first one is “Start New Application.” This option is for you if you are new or if you haven’t had a passport before.
3. Click “Start New Application.” It will take you to the “Start New Appointment” page.
4. Read the rules provided, such as:
   • This passport application form is for Ethiopian nationals only.
   • Using more than one passport is strictly prohibited.
   • Ordinary passport applicants who already have a passport should not apply for a new passport.
   • Bring your original documents, including your passport, during collection.
   • New applicants who are unable to attend on the appointment date will need to apply again.

1. Agree to the terms and conditions.
2. Click the “Start Appointment” button.

Step 2: Choose Your Appointment Type

When you click the “Start Appointment” button, it will provide you with four options:

1. Start a new passport.
2. Renewing a passport.
3. Replace a stolen or lost passport.
4. Correct mistakes in an existing passport.

Since our purpose is creating a new passport, you should click on “New Passport Appointment.”

Step 3: Provide Your Information

When you click “New Passport Appointment,” it will ask for the following information:

1. Site Selection: Select the country, city, and office where you need to create your passport.
2. Appointment Date: Choose the appointment date from the available options.
3. Personal Information: Provide your name, birth certificate, and local or national ID. Make sure your mobile camera is clean to take clear pictures of your documents.
4. Payment: Send the service fee of 2,000 Birrs via bank, mobile banking, or other wallet payment systems like Telebirr. You can also use other banks listed on the website. Once you send the money, they will ask for a reference number, which you will receive on your phone. Submit this payment reference number. Then they give you printable copy of the receipt provided on the website after completing the payment.

Step 4: Wait for Your Appointment Date

After completing the online steps, wait for your appointment date. The website process ends here.

Go to Give Your Footprint

This is the middle step to get your passport. Now that you have finished the online process to order your passport, you need to go to the office you chose for your appointment. Bring your birth certificate and ID that you submitted online. Additionally, you should bring a printed copy of the receipt provided on the website after completing the payment. They will check this printed document when you arrive at the appointment location.

Make sure to arrive on time for your appointment. Once you arrive, they will give you instructions. You will then provide your fingerprints, retina scan, or iris print. After this, they will schedule another appointment for you to collect your passport once the processing is complete.

Take Your Passport

When your passport collection appointment date arrives, go to the office with your ID and collect your passport. If you have any questions, you can contact them through the website. If you need additional help, you can ask for assistance.

This guide is based on one person’s experience of obtaining a passport in Ethiopia.

Conclusion

These steps outline the process of getting your passport in Ethiopia. If you follow these steps carefully, you should be able to obtain your passport as I did. If any part of this guide is unclear, you can visit YouTube for more detailed instructions. Many YouTubers provide clear, step-by-step videos on how to get a passport in Ethiopia.

If you found this article useful, please share it with others. I apologize if my English caused any confusion. Thank you for reading.