EMBASSY OF THE UNITED STATES DJIBOUTI

Representatives of the foreign media traveling on assignment to the United States require "I" classification visas. They are not eligible to travel visa-free under the Visa Waiver Program or enter the United States on B-1 business visas. Those who attempt to do so may be denied admission to the United States by immigration authorities at the port of entry.

Journalists visiting Djibouti require a regular tourist visa and a letter of accreditation.  Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required to obtain a visa.  Visas can be obtained at Djiboutian Embassies abroad or at the airport upon arrival.  The U.S. Embassy will facilitate the accreditation process for journalists working U.S. based media institutions or American citizens.  Please contact the Embassy's Public Diplomacy Section at DjiboutiPD@state.gov for additional information.

If you seek accreditation but do not meet the criteria above, please contact the Ministry of Communication and Culture to apply for media accreditation.  Applications for accreditation should be submitted at least two weeks prior to entry into the country.  Applications should be submitted to the following address:

Director de la Communication     
Ministère la Communication et de la Culture
1 Rue de Moscou
BP: 32
Djibouti Ville, République de Djibouti

Tel : (253) 21-35-56-72
Tel : (253) 21-35-39-28
Fax : (253) 21-35-39-57
e-mail: mcc@intnet.dj

The Ministry of Communication requests the following information be submitted:

• Dates of arrival and length of stay:
• Focus of piece:
  • Full Name:
  • Organization:
  • Function:
  • Nationality:
  • DOB:
  • Passport number:
  • Equipment and serial numbers:
  • Blood type:
• A passport-type photo (for each person arriving)
• A short biography (for each person arriving)

There are several sensitive areas in facilities in Djibouti that require special photography permission from the host government prior to filming:

• Port of Djibouti
• Doraleh Port
• Ambouli Airport
• Presidential Palace
• Military Baracks and Bases
• Presidential Residences

Journalists who fail to request and receive an accreditation letter risk seizure of equipment and expulsion from Djibouti by the Ministry of Interior.  Journalists who collect information beyond the agreed parameters of the accreditation letter also risk equipment seizure and expulsion.