Do You Need a Visa to Enter Ethiopia?
Most international visitors to Ethiopia require a visa. However, citizens of a small number of African countries — including Kenya, Djibouti, and some others — may enter without one under bilateral agreements. It's essential to verify your country's specific situation before travelling, as policies do change.
For the vast majority of travellers, there are three practical ways to obtain a visa: the online e-visa, the visa on arrival at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, and through an Ethiopian embassy or consulate in your home country.
The Ethiopia E-Visa: The Easiest Option
Ethiopia's e-visa system allows eligible nationals to apply online before travelling. This is the most convenient method and avoids queues at the airport.
How to Apply
- Visit the official Ethiopian e-visa portal (search for the official Ethiopian government immigration website).
- Complete the online application form with your personal details and travel information.
- Upload a digital passport photo and a scanned copy of your passport bio page.
- Pay the visa fee online by card.
- Receive your e-visa by email, typically within 3–5 business days.
- Print or save your e-visa and present it on arrival.
E-Visa Details
| Visa Type | Duration | Entries |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist (Single Entry) | 30 days | Single |
| Tourist (Single Entry) | 90 days | Single |
| Business (Single Entry) | 30 days | Single |
| Business (Single Entry) | 90 days | Single |
Visa on Arrival
Many nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport. While convenient, this option involves queuing on arrival — which can be time-consuming if multiple international flights land simultaneously. It's advisable to use the e-visa if possible.
You'll need to bring:
- A valid passport (at least 6 months validity beyond your travel dates)
- A completed arrival form (usually distributed on the plane)
- Proof of onward travel (return ticket or ticket to your next destination)
- Sufficient funds (cash in USD, EUR, or equivalent)
- Passport-sized photographs (some counters request these)
Yellow Fever Certificate
If you are arriving from a country where yellow fever is endemic, proof of yellow fever vaccination is mandatory. This is strictly enforced at Ethiopian entry points. Check whether your country of departure or any transit countries are on the list of yellow fever-endemic nations.
Extending Your Stay
If you wish to stay longer than your visa allows, extensions can be obtained from the Immigration, Nationality and Vital Events Agency offices in Addis Ababa or major regional cities. Extensions are generally granted in 30-day increments. Apply before your current visa expires to avoid overstay penalties.
Entering by Land
Ethiopia shares land borders with Eritrea, Djibouti, Somalia, Kenya, South Sudan, and Sudan. Land border crossings are open at select points — notably the Kenya–Ethiopia crossing at Moyale and the Djibouti crossing at Galafi. Procedures and accessibility vary; always check current conditions before attempting a land border crossing, as situations can change.
General Entry Tips
- Ensure your passport has at least two blank pages for stamps.
- Keep a printed copy of your e-visa even if you have a digital copy.
- USD cash is widely accepted for visa fees and useful to carry in Ethiopia generally.
- Declare any cash amounts over USD 3,000 on your customs form upon entry.
- Photography of government buildings, military installations, and airports is prohibited — be discreet with your camera immediately after landing.
Entry requirements can change without much notice. Always cross-reference information with your country's foreign travel advisory and the official Ethiopian immigration website before you travel.