How to Enter Djibouti
Do I need a passport or visa to enter?
A valid passport, visa, and evidence of yellow fever vaccination are required for entry. Those travelling by air can obtain 3-day visas at Ambouli International Airport for 10,000 Djiboutian francs ($60) or 30-day visas can be obtained for 15,000 Djiboutian Francs ($90). It is, however, advisable to obtain visas prior to travel to Djibouti whenever possible. If visas are obtained prior to travel, one year, multiple entry visas are issued. Travelers may obtain the latest information on entry requirements from the Embassy of the Republic of Djibouti, 1156 15th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20005, telephone (202) 331-0270, or at the Djibouti Mission to the United Nations, 866 United Nations Plaza, Suite 4011, New York, NY 10017, telephone (212) 753-3163. Overseas, inquiries may be made at the nearest Djiboutian embassy or consulate. In countries where there is no Djiboutian diplomatic representation, travelers may sometimes obtain visas at the French Embassy. The validity of the Djiboutian visa is also the amount of time one may stay in the country without a residency permit. If one overstays his/her visa validity, an exit tax of 10,000 Djiboutian francs ($60) may be required. Djiboutian airport taxes of $60 are typically added into the cost of an airline ticket by travel agents. Tickets purchased online, however, sometimes fail to account for this charge and it may be requested at check-in. Any airport/visa/customs fees must be paid in cash.U.S. citizen journalists or any U.S. citizen connected with the media must contact the U.S. Embassy’s Public Affairs section prior to travel to facilitate entry into Djibouti. If you are unclear whether this applies to you, please contact the U.S. Embassy for more information.
U.S. citizens are encouraged to carry a photocopy of their U.S. passport with them at all times to prove identity and U.S. citizenship if questioned by local officials. Police occasionally stop travelers on the main roads leading out of the capital to check identity documents.
Special Travel Circumstances in Djibouti
Although the narcotic khat is legal and widely chewed in Djibouti, it is illegal in many countries, including the United States. Driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol could result in legal penalties.
Djiboutians are generally conservative in manner and dress, especially in rural areas. Photography of public infrastructure (including, but not limited to, public buildings, seaports, the airport, bridges, military facilities, or personnel) is not allowed in Djibouti. Use extreme caution when photographing anyone or anything near prohibited areas. Photographic equipment will be confiscated, and the photographer may be arrested. It is generally a good idea to ask permission before taking pictures of people as they may object to having their photo taken.
Djibouti uses the Djiboutian Franc (DJF), which is pegged at 177 DJF to the dollar. Djibouti is a cash-based economy and credit cards are not widely accepted. Automated teller machines (ATMs) are limited. Changing money on the street is legal, but be aware of possible scams as well as personal safety considerations if people observe you carrying large amounts of cash. The exchange rate on the street will be similar to that at a bank or hotel. U.S. banknotes printed before 2003 may not be accepted at many currency exchanges.
Djiboutian customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning temporary importation and exportation of firearms. It is advisable to contact the Embassy of Djibouti in Washington, DC, for specific information regarding customs requirements.
Disclaimer
You are responsible for ensuring that you meet and comply with foreign entry requirements, health requirements and that you possess the appropriate travel documents. Information provided is subject to change without notice. One should confirm content prior to traveling from other reliable sources. Information published on this website may contain errors. You travel at your own risk and no warranties or guarantees are provided by us.