India, Ethiopia implement diplomatic Visa waiver

India and Ethiopia have formally operationalised a bilateral agreement allowing visa-free travel for holders of diplomatic passports, marking a significant step in strengthening diplomatic engagement between the two countries. The Agreement on Mutual Visa Waiver for Diplomatic Passport Holders came into effect on 15 January 2026, enabling diplomats from both nations to travel without visas.

Officials from New Delhi and Addis Ababa described the move as a practical and symbolic measure aimed at facilitating smoother official exchanges and enhancing bilateral cooperation.  The implementation of the visa waiver reflects the growing depth of relations between the Republic of India and the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, which are rooted in longstanding historical links and shared perspectives on global and development issues.

By easing travel for senior officials and diplomats, the agreement is expected to support more frequent dialogue and closer coordination on regional and international matters. The development follows the landmark visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Ethiopia in mid-December 2025. During that visit, Prime Minister Modi and Ethiopian Prime Minister Dr  Abiy Ahmed agreed to elevate bilateral relations to the level of a “Strategic Partnership,” signalling a shared commitment to expanding cooperation across political, economic, and people-to-people domains.