Ethiopia medical and interview (khat or chaat use)

[Aleks&Hajji 1]

Hi all,

I was wondering if anyone knew whether use of the local stimulant, khat, is a problem as far as the medical exam and visa interview in Addis Ababa?

My husband occasionally uses khat as it's a big part of the social life in Afar Region, where an overwhelming majority of people use it daily.

It's legal in Ethiopia, but illegal in US, so I want to be careful!

Thank you for any feedback!

[Aya820 33]

_{Had to look up what Khat/chaat was. I had never heard of it. But since it is illegal in the U.S., then I would presume past/current use can be put on the same grounds as cocaine and other illegal substances.}

_{Here is what I found on it via google.com...Note, however, the article is kind of dated from 2010, maybe you can find something more current perhaps here on VJ...http://www.pcurtislaw.com/traps-unweary-fiancee-visa-denials-based-past-drug-use}

[Aleks&Hajji 1]

I've done a search of the forums and found nothing, but there may be variations in spelling as well....

I've told my husband not to touch anymore khat till after the interview, but it is widely used in his part of the country.

It is much milder and less addictive than pot even, so I would think it isn't a huge deal. And I don't think it's easy to get in the US anyway, since it should be fresh. But just want to know what to expect, if this will be an issue...

[Heley 52]

I don't think it will effect his medical unless he is addicted to it n found in his blood. But I doubt that..

Chat is only known in Ethio n some Arab countries so u ain't gonna find any definition on ur research. Good luck tho

[Aleks&Hajji 1]

I don't think it will effect his medical unless he is addicted to it n found in his blood. But I doubt that..

Chat is only known in Ethio n some Arab countries so u ain't gonna find any definition on ur research. Good luck tho

Yeah, maybe not.

He uses it from time to time because in Afar Region it's the only way to get some relief on those hot afternoons - even I was participating when I lived there.

In any case, I told him just to stop. Better to be sure than risk it!

[Heley 52]

not just in affar lol... In addis too. feel u on that n don't worry,it will b ok...it's just chat not a crack:)

[TommyF 3]

I hope this interview went well, but if it's still on the air then the use of chat has nothing to do with the medical exam or interview. Its very common in Ethiopia as it is a way of life in Afar region. It won't be detected in any medical exam. It has nothing to do with legality as well. I love khat and I went through that process.