How to Apply for an Ethiopian Passport Online

On January 8, 2025, Ethiopia rolled out its new digital system for passport services, called Digital Invea (INVEA). This platform represents a major step forward in making passport and citizenship services for Ethiopians more readily available, secure, and in line with global standards, particularly benefiting Ethiopians around the world.

This article will guide you on how to get an Ethiopian passport online and where to take a perfect passport photo.

Table of contents

• Digital Invea (INVEA): Ethiopia’s online passport system
• Who can apply for an Ethiopian passport online?
• Step‑by‑step online application process
• Documents required to apply for an Ethiopian passport online
• Ethiopian passport photo requirements
• Ethiopian Passport Size Photo Maker
• Ethiopian Passport Photo App
• Ethiopian passport fees
• How long does it take to renew an Ethiopian passport online
• FAQ

Digital Invea (INVEA): Ethiopia’s online passport system

Digital Invea (INVEA) serves as Ethiopia's official online service for handling passport applications, renewals, Origin ID, and other citizenship-related documents.

Key features:

• The system allows individuals to apply for new passports, renew old ones, or request corrections and replacements through the INVEA website or mobile applications.
• Digital Invea also accommodates applications for Origin ID (geared towards people of Ethiopian descent) and Lasse Passer documents, all processed online for user convenience.
• The entire process, from entering personal information and uploading documents to making payments, is completed securely online, with applications typically taking 5–10 minutes to submit.
• The new E-passport incorporates biometric technology and advanced encryption, complying with international security standards to boost safety and prevent fraud.

Applications are managed by INVEA's main office, transforming what once required paperwork and in-person visits into an efficient digital procedure.

Who can apply for an Ethiopian passport online?

The following individuals can utilize the online application process:

• Ethiopian citizens (both domestically and internationally):
  • Residents in Ethiopia: citizens with a valid Ethiopian National Identification (Fayda ID) are able to apply for, renew, or correct their passports online.
  • Ethiopian citizens abroad: Ethiopians living outside the country can access online passport services, as long as they possess the requisite identification and documentation.
• People of Ethiopian descent origin ID holders: those of Ethiopian heritage who may hold other citizenship but are eligible for an Origin ID (“Yellow Card”) can apply for specific documents or Origin ID cards through the online system.

Step‑by‑step online application process

How can I renew my Ethiopian passport online in Ethiopia or abroad? Here is how to apply for an Ethiopian passport online through INVEA:

1. Access the INVEA website or download the “Digital Invea" app, available for iOS and Android devices. Set up your account by registering and logging in.
2. Start a new application for a passport. Input all required personal information such as your full name, birthdate, and nationality as they appear on your identification documents.
3. Upload all required documents.
4. Pay the processing fee using the platform's available payment options, which may include both local and international cards, depending on where you are applying from.
5. Once everything is completed, submit your application for processing. You’ll receive a confirmation along with a unique application or reference number.
6. Depending on your location and the details filled in your application, your new passport will either be sent to your address or ready for pickup.

Documents required to apply for an Ethiopian passport online

What documents do I need for an Ethiopian passport renewal online in Addis Ababa or any other city? The documents you need can vary based on your application (new, renewal, minors), but generally, you'll need:

For a new passport:

• A valid Kebele Identity Card from Ethiopia.
• Certified birth certificate.
• Completed application form submitted online.
• Recent digital passport-sized photo.
• Fingerprint evidence captured as instructed, possibly at a local police station.
• Proof of Ethiopian citizenship, such as an Ethiopian ID card, birth certificate, or prior passport.
• Receipt for application fee payment.

For a passport renewal:

• Copy of the expired or old passport.
• Valid Kebele Identity Card, if required.
• Completed renewal form submitted online.
• Recent digital passport-sized photo.
• Fingerprints if not previously supplied or specifically requested.
• Residence permit if the application is abroad.
• Receipt for application fee payment.

For minors or special circumstances:

• Additional documents like parent or guardian identification and birth certificate.
• Possibly required court documents for guardianship.

Ethiopian passport photo requirements

Ensure your passport photo meets these criteria for online application:

• The photo size must be 30 mm x 40 mm (3×4 cm). The resolution is at least 600 DPI.
• File format for uploads: JPEG or JPG, with a maximum file size of 120–240 KB.
• The background is solid white or light with no patterns or shadows.
• Head height should be about 30 mm with approximately 2.5 mm space above the head.
• The photo should be taken within the last 6 months.
• Head should be straight, fully visible, and centered. Eyes open, facing the camera. Both ears visible.
• The expression is neutral, with a closed mouth, no smiles or exaggerated expressions.
• No glasses unless medically required, ensuring no glare or shadows on lenses.

Here is an example:

Ethiopian Passport Size Photo Maker

Wondering how to best capture a passport photo? Given the specific requirements for Ethiopian passport photos, it's wise to use dedicated online tools like Visafoto.com. With expertise in handling document photos since 2013, Visafoto knows the exact specifications for passports, visas, driver's licenses, and other identification documents globally.

Through Visafoto, you can easily create a photo for your Ethiopian passport application from anywhere. Just snap a picture following our guidelines and upload it to our tool. We’ll take care of the formatting, background, size, and dimensions for you.

Example of a photo you can upload:

You'll get a digital copy for online submission and a print-ready version. If you're unhappy with the photo, we’ll replace it for free. Should the image be rejected, we provide a full refund.

Ethiopian Passport Photo App

For an even smoother process, try the 7ID app by Visafoto.com. Using advanced technology, 7ID will enhance your photo immediately. It's available for iPhone and Android users.

Upload your photo, select Ethiopia and the passport document type. The app will automatically align your image with official specifications, adjusting size, format, and background color while ensuring your face and eyes are perfectly centered. You'll receive a digital file and a print template suitable for common paper dimensions like 4×6, A4, A5, or B5.

For any queries, our support team is on hand 24/7 to assist you.

Ethiopian passport fees

How much is a passport in Ethiopia? Here's a breakdown of the Ethiopian passport online prices for 2025:

New passport and renewal fees:

• New passport: ETB 5000.
• Passport renewal: ETB 5000.
• Renewal with address update: ETB 5000.
• Renewal with name or photo update: ETB 12 500.

Express services:

• Express passport issuance in 2 days: ETB 25 000.
• Express service in 5 days: ETB 20 000.
• Express renewal in 2 days: ETB 13 000 fee, plus ETB 33 000 extra.
• Express renewal in 5 days: ETB 13 000, plus an additional ETB 28 000.

Replacement for lost passports:

• Replacing a lost passport costs ETB 13 000.

How long does it take to renew an Ethiopian passport online

Renewing an Ethiopian passport online should take between 15 and 20 business days.

FAQ

Can I renew my Ethiopian passport online from abroad?

Yes, you can renew your Ethiopian passport online from abroad using the Digital Invea app or through the official Ethiopian passport services website.

Can I apply for an Ethiopian passport without visiting a government office?

Applying for an Ethiopian passport cannot be completed entirely online. You must visit a government office or Ethiopian consulate at least once to provide biometric fingerprint data, though the initial application, document uploads, and fee payment can be handled online via the Digital Invea system.

Is the Ethiopian online passport application available in Amharic?

Yes, the INVEA app and portal are available in both English and Amharic.

Can I make changes after submitting my passport application online?

Generally, once you've submitted your Ethiopian passport application online, you cannot make changes directly on the portal. For any corrections or updates, you will need to reach out to the Immigration and Nationality Affairs office.

Can I pay Ethiopian passport fees online with international cards?

Yes, it's possible to pay Ethiopian passport fees online using international credit or debit cards via the Digital Invea system or the Ethiopian Passport Services portal. These platforms support secure Ethiopian passport online payments, allowing applicants abroad to complete their fee transactions digitally after submitting their application.

What should I do if I haven’t received my passport after several months?

If your Ethiopian passport hasn’t arrived after several months, here's what you should do:

1. Use the INVEA platform or app to track your application status and review any notifications or required actions.
2. Reach out to the Ethiopian Immigration and Nationality Affairs office or the consulate where you applied for information about your application's progress.

Can I use the Ethiopian online passport application if I lost my old passport?

Yes, you can apply for a new Ethiopian immigration passport online if you’ve lost your old one. However, you’ll need to provide additional documentation to prove your Ethiopian citizenship and identity. Required documents include:

• Four recent color passport-sized photos.
• Two copies of supporting documents proving Ethiopian citizenship, such as an authenticated birth certificate or Kebele ID card.
• Documentation showing your current immigration status in your country of residence, like an alien registration card.
• Fingerprints collected at an authorized location.
• Payment of the applicable service fee.