For Ethiopian passport holders looking to travel to the United Kingdom, securing a visa is a necessary step, as the UK does not allow visa-free travel for Ethiopian citizens. Below, we will outline the various types of UK visas available and the requirements you must meet.
1. Visitor Visa
- Purpose: Ideal for short visits for tourism, business, or family visits.
- Requirements:
- A valid Ethiopian passport.
- Proof of financial means to cover your stay (bank statements, payslips).
- A confirmed travel itinerary and accommodation details.
- Proof of ties to Ethiopia (e.g., employment, family).
- A completed visa application form.
- Passport-sized photos.
- Visa fee payment receipt (online).
- Biometrics (fingerprints and photo) at the Visa Application Centre.
- Application Process:
- Apply online via the UK government website.
- After completing the application, schedule an appointment at the UK Visa Application Centre (VFS Global) in Addis Ababa to submit your documents and biometricsTLScontactJoin Sherpa.
2. Student Visa
- Purpose: For those wishing to study in the UK for more than 6 months.
- Requirements:
- A confirmation of acceptance for studies (CAS) from a UK institution.
- Proof of sufficient funds for tuition and living expenses.
- Evidence of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS scores).
- A valid Ethiopian passport.
- Completed online application and biometric appointment.
- Application Process:
- Apply for a Student Visa after receiving your CAS.
- Schedule a biometrics appointment at the Visa Centre.
- Submit your financial documents and passport for processingJoin Sherpa.
3. Work Visa
- Purpose: For individuals seeking to work in the UK.
- Requirements:
- A job offer from a licensed sponsor in the UK.
- Proof of qualifications and professional experience.
- Financial proof that you can support yourself in the UK.
- Online application and biometric data submission.
- Application Process:
- Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (COS) from your UK employer.
- Submit the visa application and attend the biometrics appointment at the local Visa CentreTLScontact.
4. Settlement Visa
- Purpose: For those wishing to join family members in the UK or settle after a long period of stay.
- Requirements:
- Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, family records).
- Evidence of financial stability (bank statements).
- Health and character checks (criminal record check).
- Application Process:
- Apply for a family visa to join a UK-based family member.
- Complete the online application and biometric data collectionTLScontactJoin Sherpa.
5. Transit Visa
- Purpose: For those passing through the UK on their way to another destination.
- Requirements:
- A valid passport and visa for the destination country (if required).
- Proof of the onward journey and travel bookings.
- Sufficient funds for the transit period.
- Application Process:
- Complete the online transit visa application.
- Attend an appointment at the Visa Centre with your documents and biometricsTLScontact.
Important Notes:
- Biometrics: All applicants must submit biometric data (photo and fingerprints) during their visa application at the VFS Global Centre.
- Payment: All visa fees must be paid online before submitting your application. Cash payments at the Visa Application Centre are not acceptedTLScontact.
Ethiopian passport holders must ensure they meet these criteria and follow the necessary steps to avoid delays. If you’re unsure about specific requirements or need additional guidance, you can contact the VFS Global centre in Addis Ababa, or visit the official UK government website for more details
