I am a US citizen trying to arrange a work visa for Ethiopia. The Ethiopian embassy here in the USA requires a letter of approval from Ethiopian immigration before issuing a work visa. Unfortunately, I have been unable to determine exactly HOW one does this. The government does not make this clear.
My host in Ethiopia has no no idea how to do this. (This is small scientific research collaboration so nobody has any experience in this area). The embassy assures me that immigration approval is "instant" once host applies in Addis but has not provided details about HOW one does this.
Can anybody help? Can immigration approval letter be obtained online? Does somebody have to visit an office in Addis?
I have been unable to find info online. I have tried calling immigration office in Addis but calls never get through. This bureaucratic catch has held up project for several weeks and threatens to derail entire project. Can anybody offer any suggestions?
Thanks for any help.