Eritrea Entry Requirements

Children must have their own passport and visa. Minors (under 18) traveling without both parents should carry notarized consent letters from absent parent(s), including contact information and authorizing the child to travel. Birth certificates may be requested. Children are subject to the same registration and documentation requirements as adults. If traveling with children who have different surnames, carry documentation proving relationship (birth certificates, adoption papers, etc.). Eritrean authorities are particularly strict about documentation for children, especially those of Eritrean descent.

Individuals of Eritrean origin, including dual nationals and those born abroad to Eritrean parents, face special requirements. They may be required to pay a 2% diaspora tax, obtain special permits, and may face extended stays or military service obligations. Dual nationals should enter on their Eritrean passport if they hold one. Men aged 18-50 may be subject to national service requirements. Consult an Eritrean embassy before travel if you have Eritrean heritage, as requirements are complex and strictly enforced. Exit may be denied if obligations are not fulfilled.

Importing pets into Eritrea is extremely difficult and not recommended. If necessary, pets require: valid rabies vaccination certificate (administered at least 30 days but not more than 12 months before entry), veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of travel, import permit from Eritrean Ministry of Agriculture (must be obtained in advance), and microchip identification. Quarantine may be required. Facilities for pets are extremely limited in Eritrea. Contact the Eritrean embassy well in advance (at least 2-3 months) to confirm current requirements and obtain necessary permits.

Tourist visas are typically issued for 30 days. Extensions are difficult to obtain and must be applied for at the Department of Immigration and Nationality Affairs in Asmara before your visa expires. Extension approval is at the discretion of authorities and is not guaranteed. Applications require: valid passport, current visa, letter explaining reason for extension, proof of accommodation, proof of sufficient funds, and fee payment. Apply at least one week before visa expiration. Overstaying your visa can result in fines, detention, and deportation. For longer stays, consider applying for a different visa category (business, work, etc.) through an Eritrean embassy before travel.

Journalists, photographers, filmmakers, and media professionals face strict requirements and must obtain special accreditation and permits before travel. Apply through an Eritrean embassy with detailed information about your assignment, employer, and itinerary. Media visas require approval from the Ministry of Information. All photography and filming locations must be pre-approved. Working as a journalist on a tourist visa is illegal and can result in arrest and detention. Independent journalism is heavily restricted in Eritrea. Even with proper permits, expect close monitoring and restrictions on movement and reporting.

Business travelers must obtain a business visa in advance, which requires an invitation letter from an Eritrean company or government entity. The letter should detail the purpose of visit, duration, and local sponsor information. Business visas are typically issued for 30 days. Business activities on a tourist visa are prohibited. Register with immigration upon arrival and maintain contact with your local sponsor. Business meetings may be monitored. Export/import of business materials or samples may require special permits. Maintain all business documentation and receipts for customs inspection.