Traveling to Ethiopia: Visa Entry Requirements

The world’s best tourist destination of the year 2015, according to the European Council of tourism and trade, has incredible places to visit with a rich history to tell. From the beautiful wild mountains to the religious architecture of ancient orthodox Christianity – some declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites, – or, Aksum the home to the Queen of Sheba, and not to forget the medieval forts, tombs as well as palaces.

Ethiopia is a beautiful rugged and landlocked country in the horn of Africa with sights, scenery, and culture that any tourist would not miss an opportunity to document. It is not a surprise that Ethiopia is still among Africa’s top tourist destinations, with millions of visitors each year. Besides, it is the capital of the African Union (AU). You can find further information here.

Ethiopia Visa Entry Requirements

Unless you are from Kenya or Djibouti, you will require a visa in order to enter Ethiopia. Nevertheless, the exemption for Kenyan nationality is valid for a year, while for Djibouti, the same is valid for three months. Also, holders of service or diplomatic passports of other countries except Pakistan and Somali are not required to have a visa while in the country for up to 3 months.

Further, depending on your country of origin, you might be eligible for either an electronic visa or a visa on arrival. The visa is issued subject to the validity of your passport – which is at least six months, especially for the electronic visa (eVisa). The application is not too restrictive; however, it is advisable to prepare earlier enough to avoid delays. For non-Benelux countries, a copy of a resident or work permit may be required.

The eVisa

Ethiopia’s eVisa application is open to all citizens of the world. This was made effective from June 1, 2018. However, for tourists requiring a multiple entry visa, the same is not available online, and you must make the application through an Ethiopian consulate near you. The single-entry visa is valid for 30 to 901 days, whereas the multiple-entry visa is valid for up to six months. It takes approximately three days to have your eVisa ready.

Getting visa on arrival

Beginning November 2018, Ethiopia started issuing visas on arrival to permanent residents of all Countries affiliated to the African Union. Morocco and Central African Republic (CAR), despite their location being in Africa, are not a member of the African Union. Morocco being part of the Arab league while CAR is facing suspension.

Whereas Somalia is part of the African Union, there is no confirmation on their national’s eligibility to get visa on arrival In addition, nationals and residents of 36 other countries outside Africa, including all countries in North America, among others can receive their tourist visa on arrival at Bole International airport – Addis Ababa.

Transit Visa

If you are passing through Ethiopia’s Addis Ababa airport and you may require to leave the airport for whatever reason within flights, you need a transit visa. The visa is valid from 12 hours up to 72 hours. To get a transit visa, you may have to visit a consul near you to get the same.

Other Travel Tips

You should ensure you have proper insurance in place in case you get sick. This will give you the confidence to take the road trip and enjoy the beautiful scenery. From the Nile falls to the red-rock Mountains, the Danakil Desert, and the lush Valley, you will get the best road trip experience in Ethiopia. The country is home to the gelada baboon and Ethiopian wolf.

There are some parts of the country where you are likely to get yellow fever, so ensure to get vaccinated. In fact, it is a requirement prior to entry into the country. This day’s yellow fever vaccine lasts a lifetime, and you should be limited that your vaccination is past ten years.

Wrap up

If you have ever fancied visiting the country, whether you are a novice traveler or an experienced traveler and explorer. This eastern country That was never colonized, thanks to the emperor Haile Selassie has a beautiful story to tell.