The Council of the European Union (EU) has formally restored standard visa processing for Ethiopian nationals, thereby strengthening diplomatic relations between Brussels and Addis Ababa, and effectively repealing the restrictive measures implemented in 2024.
This resolution, adopted on May 18 and officially published the following day, follows a period of "substantial improvements" in Ethiopia’s cooperation regarding migrant readmission, as seen on VisaHQ.
Specifically, European Union officials cited Ethiopia’s increased proactive engagement in issuing emergency travel documentation and facilitating the return of its citizens who lack legal residency within Europe.
Ethiopian nationals applying for visas to EU member states, including Ireland, will now be able to use regular visa processes outlined in the EU Visa Code.
This includes lower application fees, returning to €80 from the previously raised €120, as well as fewer paperwork requirements in some situations.
