As of April 29, 2024, the European Council has implemented temporary measures affecting the issuance of Schengen C visas for Ethiopian citizens. These measures, expected to be enacted shortly, entail significant changes in visa application procedures for Ethiopian nationals across EU Member States. Notably, the following policy adjustments will be enforced:
Suspension of multiple entry visas for Ethiopian nationals.
Extension of standard government processing times to 45 calendar days, up from the previous 15 calendar days.
Removal of certain waivers for visa application documentary requirements.
Elimination of waived visa fees for diplomatic and service passports.
The decision to impose these restrictions stems from what the Council perceives as a lack of cooperation from the Ethiopian government in facilitating the repatriation of Ethiopian citizens residing unlawfully within the European Union. While these restrictions are temporary, the Council has not specified an end date for their duration.