Residence in Eritrea: permits and requirements
Living legally in Eritrea is possible through 2 permit types: work, other. Each program has its own requirements; below are the duration, renewal, costs and documentation according to the country's official sources.
Residence permit for employment
Residence type #1 of 2
Residency for non-nationals with a work permit from the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare (Legal Notice 80/2003); entry authorized by the Ministry.
Requirements
- Work Permit issued by the Ministry of Labor
- Prior confirmation that the permit will be obtained
- Employer's contract or accredited volunteering
Documentation
- Employment or volunteer contract
- Passport
- Visa
- Photographs
- Fees
We could not verify the official portal
The official portal was not reachable during our latest review. The information was cross-checked against the sources listed below. Please confirm the requirements on the official portal before starting your application.
- Embajada de Eritrea en Estados Unidos — Government portal
- Eritrea — Decreto de 1992 (Refworld) — Legal text on entry and residence
Frequently asked questions about residence in Eritrea
How many types of residence permits are there in Eritrea?
Eritrea offers 2 residence permit types, grouped into the categories work, other. Each permit has its own requirements, duration and documentation, detailed in this fact sheet according to the country's official sources.
How long do residence permits in Eritrea last?
Durations vary by permit type: Depending on permit (renewable); For the mission (renewable). The exact details of each type appear in the corresponding fact sheet.
Can residence permits in Eritrea be renewed?
Yes. All residence permit types of Eritrea (2 in total) are renewable before their expiration, according to the rules of each program.
What documentation is usually required to reside in Eritrea?
Although each permit requires its own file, the most recurrent documents are: Photographs; Passport; Visado; Tasas; Employment or volunteer contract. The complete list by residence type appears in each fact sheet, together with the corresponding official link.
Does residence in Eritrea lead to nationality?
Yes, through the Naturalization by residence pathway, which requires 10 years domicile before 1974 (20 years with periodic visits abroad), for non-Eritreans resident from 1952 onward (Proclamation 21/1992, art. 4; full legal text, gazette not digitized) of legal residence. The complete requirements are in the nationality fact sheet of Eritrea.
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Anything to correct or add about Eritrea?
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