Ethiopia has launched a new generation biometric passport, meeting the highest security standards for travel documents. The passport features an embedded chip with face, fingerprint, or iris biometrics for easy verification. This launch is part of a project to modernize Ethiopia’s immigration infrastructure, strengthen national security, and enhance the travel experience. The new passport will be produced locally at an industrial printing plant.
The rollout of the passport to the general public is expected in the coming weeks, following a nationwide awareness campaign. Nationwide issuance will begin in October, with 1.5 million passport booklets in stock. The passport’s launch is a significant step in advancing Ethiopia’s technological and administrative capabilities. It also paves the way for the introduction of new digital immigration services, including a digital visa system.