Are you an Ethiopian living abroad dreaming of owning a home back home? Whether it's a modern apartment in Addis Ababa or a custom villa in the suburbs, a mortgage loan can help turn that dream into reality.
This guide explains everything you need to know about getting a diaspora mortgage in Ethiopia, including how mortgages work, the types available, eligibility for diasporas, and the documents required to apply.
What is a Mortgage?
A mortgage is a long-term loan provided by a bank or financial institution that allows you to buy, build, or renovate property. You repay the loan over time usually in monthly installments with interest. The property itself is used as collateral until the loan is fully repaid.
Types of Mortgages in Ethiopia
- Home Purchase Mortgage – For buying completed residential properties.
- Construction Mortgage – For building a house from the ground up.
- Off-Plan Mortgage – For purchasing a property under construction.
- Refinance Mortgage – To replace an existing loan with new terms, such as better interest rates or extended payment periods.
Each type serves a unique purpose, so it's important to select one that fits your property goals.
What is a Diaspora Mortgage?
A diaspora mortgage is a specialized home loan product tailored to non-resident Ethiopians or foreign nationals of Ethiopian origin. These products are offered by several banks in Ethiopia, such as the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia (CBE), Awash Bank, and others.
Diaspora mortgages allow you to apply from abroad, use your foreign income to qualify, and access foreign currency accounts and flexible repayment structures.
Can You Get a Mortgage in Ethiopia as a Diaspora or Living Abroad?
Yes, you can! If you're an Ethiopian living overseas or a foreign national of Ethiopian origin, you are eligible to apply for a mortgage loan in Ethiopia. Banks offer streamlined processes and dedicated loan products for diaspora clients. You simply need to:
- Open a Diaspora Savings Account with the bank.
- Submit the required documents (see below).
- Choose a property to buy or construct.
Required Documents for Ethiopian Diaspora Mortgage Applicants
Here is a detailed breakdown of the documentation needed:
General Documents for All Loan Applicants
- Diaspora Saving Account Opening Tab/Receipt No.
- Birth Certificate – Applicant must be 18 years old or above
- Renewed Passport, Residence and/or Work Permit (for Non-Resident Ethiopians)
- Renewed Yellow Card and Passport (for Foreign Nationals of Ethiopian Origin)
- Marriage Certificate
- One passport-size photograph (of husband and wife, if applicable)
- Loan Application Letter
If Loan is to be Processed Through a Power of Attorney
- The Power of Attorney must be notarized and should explicitly authorize the representative to:
✅ Sign a loan contract with the bank on behalf of the principal(s)
✅ Sign a mortgage contract with the bank on behalf of the principal(s)
✅ Authorize payment orders from the bank account maintained in the principal(s)’ name for loan processing
✅ Obtain any information related to the loan
✅ Take over the ownership certificate, approved plan, and any related documents once the loan is settled
Make sure your POA document includes all of the above points to avoid any delays in your mortgage application.
- Identification Card of the Attorney
- One passport-size photograph of the Attorney
If Applicant is Employed
- Employment Letter showing gross income (annual, monthly, etc.) and net income from the employer
- Individual Tax Return (if applicable)
- Employment Contract (if applicable)
If Applicant is a Business Owner
- Financial Statements for at least the last three consecutive years
- Renewed Trade License and Trade Registration Certificate
- Current Tax Payment Receipt
- TIN (Tax Identification Number) for both husband and wife (if applicable)
🌍 Optional Document for Foreign Income
- Bank Statement from Foreign Sources for at least 1 year
(This document is optional for special option users but recommended.)
Documents Related to House Purchase or Construction
If you are applying for a mortgage to buy or build a home in Ethiopia, the following documents are required:
- Valid Purchase/Sales Contract registered by an authorized government body
- Ownership Certificate and Approved Plan
- Lease Certificate or Current Lease Payment Receipt, as appropriate
- Current Tax Payment Receipt
- Construction Work Permit (for building a house or buying under construction)
- Bill of Quantity (BOQ) for construction or purchase under construction
These documents help the bank assess the value, legal status, and construction feasibility of your property.
Applying for a mortgage loan in Ethiopia as a diaspora is easier than ever with clear procedures, diaspora-focused products, and support from banks. Whether you’re investing in your future home or planning for retirement, a diaspora mortgage is a smart and practical path toward owning property in Ethiopia.
At Live Ethio, we help diaspora clients find the perfect property whether it’s a finished apartment or a plot to build on and guide you through the loan application process from start to finish.
Need Help?
Live Ethio is here to help you:
- Discover the best houses and apartments for sale in Ethiopia
- Connect with verified real estate developers
- Support you through the mortgage application process with top local banks
👉 Contact Us Today and take your first step toward owning a home in Ethiopia!
📞 Call/WhatsApp: [+251 974299472]
📧 Email: Contact@livingethio.com