Written by: Qusay Ahmed

The Ghanaian Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued an urgent warning to its citizens residing in Ethiopia, urging them to refrain from overstaying their legal residency period in the country, after the Ethiopian Immigration and Citizenship Service announced the implementation of new residency regulations.

According to these regulations, violators face severe penalties, including fines of up to $5,000, in addition to daily fees for each additional day they spend in the country after the end of their legal stay.

Ghanaian warning to citizens in Ethiopia

The ministry explained in its statement that the Ethiopian authorities have the power to confiscate the property of violators and sell it to pay the financial dues resulting from the violation.

These amendments indicate a tightening of immigration procedures in Ethiopia, requiring foreign nationals to fully comply with local laws regarding residency.

The Ghanaian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that this warning comes as part of its commitment to protecting the interests of Ghanaian citizens residing abroad, and to avoiding any legal repercussions that may arise from non-compliance with the new regulations in Ethiopia.

The ministry also confirmed that the Ghanaian embassy in Addis Ababa is ready to provide support and assistance to citizens if needed, including providing advice on how to avoid violations and illegal immigration.

The ministry confirmed that the Ethiopian measures aim to strengthen the immigration system in the country and combat illegal immigration, within the framework of the Ethiopian government’s efforts to develop immigration policies in line with international standards.

She urged all Ghanaian citizens in Ethiopia to comply with local laws and ensure that their visas or residency permits are renewed on time.

In light of these new regulations, all Ghanaians in Ethiopia are advised to take the necessary precautions to avoid violations and legal penalties.