By the end of this guide, you’ll understand who needs a visa for Ethiopia, the types available, required documents, step-by-step application instructions, fees, arrival rules and little-known details that ensure a smooth journey.
Who Qualifies for an Ethiopian Tourist Visa?
Virtually all nationalities need a tourist visa to enter Ethiopia, with only two exceptions:
- Citizens of Kenya and Djibouti enjoy visa-free entry
- All other travelers must secure a visa in advance or obtain one on arrival
Visa-Free vs. Visa on Arrival
If you hold a Kenyan or Djiboutian passport, you don’t need to apply. Nationals of over 230 countries may apply online for an e-visa; a handful must still visit an Ethiopian embassy[^6].
Types of Ethiopian Tourist Visas & How Long You Can Stay
Ethiopia offers different entry permits to suit your itinerary:
- Single-Entry e-Visa: Valid for 90 days from issue, allows one stay of up to 30 days.
- Multiple-Entry e-Visa: Also valid for 90 days, lets you enter and exit multiple times within that period.
- Transit Visa: Good for 3 days if you’re en route to another country.
The Immigration Proclamation No. 378/2003 governs duration, extension rights and restrictions for each visa type.
Extending Your Stay
If 30 days isn’t enough, you can apply at the Immigration and Citizenship Service in Addis Ababa for a one-time extension of up to 30 more days.
What Documents Will You Need?
Gather these items before starting your application:
- A passport valid for at least six months past your arrival date
- One recent passport-style photo (35 × 45 mm)
- Copy of your return or onward flight ticket
- Proof of accommodation or invitation letter
- For travelers under 18: see the Ethiopian Embassy in Washington DC’s visa requirements for notarized consent and guardianship documents
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate if arriving from or having transited through a risk area, as outlined by the CDC’s Ethiopia travel health information
“All visitors must carry evidence of sufficient funds and a return ticket,” warns the Addis Ababa Immigration Office.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Visit the official e-Visa portal
- Create an account and choose “Tourist Visa.”
- Complete the online form with personal details and travel plans.
- Upload scanned copies of passport data page, photo and any additional docs.
- Pay the non-refundable visa fee by credit card[^2].
- Track your application status online.
- Receive your e-Visa via email—print and present it upon arrival.
If your nationality is excluded from the online system, apply at an Ethiopian embassy or consulate with the same documents.
Fees & Processing Times
- Standard processing: 3–5 business days.
- Expedited service: available for an extra fee.
- All application fees are non-refundable, even if your visa is denied[^2].
Typical cost range: US $52–$70 for single-entry; US $100–$120 for multiple-entry. Payment methods include Visa, Mastercard and UnionPay.
Arriving in Ethiopia: Important Rules
- Port of Entry: e-Visas only work at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport
- Visa on Arrival: Available at Bole International for eligible nationalities; same fees apply.
- Return Ticket: You must show proof of onward travel upon landing[^3].
Overstay Penalties
If you remain past your visa’s expiry, Ethiopian authorities charge a daily fine payable in U.S. dollars before you can obtain an exit visa[^3].
Staying Compliant with Immigration Regulations
The Ethiopian Immigration and Citizenship Service enforces rules strictly. Travelers without valid entry permits risk denial of boarding, arrest or deportation. Always:
- Check your visa’s validity
- Renew or extend before it expires
- Keep your passport and visa copy on you at all times
Your Journey Starts Here
Armed with this information, you can navigate Ethiopia’s visa system confidently. From the moment you begin your online application to stepping off the plane in Addis Ababa, you now know exactly what’s required. Pack your bags, double-check those documents and prepare for an unforgettable adventure in the Horn of Africa.
[^1]: Visa policy of Ethiopia, Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Ethiopia
[^2]: Ethiopia Tourist Visa, iVisa: https://www.ivisa.com/ethiopia/ethiopia-tourist-visa
[^3]: Entry requirements, World Travel Guide: https://www.worldtravelguide.net/guides/africa/ethiopia/entry-requirements/
[^4]: Additional documents for minors, Ethiopian Embassy in Washington DC: https://ethiopianembassy.org/Visas/visa-requirements
[^5]: Ethiopia travel health information, CDC: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/ethiopia
[^6]: Official Ethiopian e-Visa portal: https://www.evisa.gov.et/#/home
[^7]: Immigration Proclamation No. 378/2003, ILO Natlex: https://www.ilo.org/dyn/natlex/docs/ELECTRONIC/66520/295668/F1602068016/ETY66520.pdf