All U.S. citizens traveling to Ethiopia must obtain a visa. For most travelers, the most efficient method is the Ethiopia Electronic Visa (E-Visa).
Created to simplify the entry process, the E-Visa system allows foreign travelers to obtain their travel authorization online, eliminating the need to visit an embassy or wait in long lines for a visa on arrival at the airport.
To ensure your application meets all government specifications, including U.S. passport validity and photo standards, you may choose to use an assisted service like iVisa for an expert review.
On This Page
- Understanding the Ethiopia E-Visa
- Do I Need an Ethiopia E-Visa?
- Visa Types, Fees, and Stay Limits
- Application Methods: DIY vs. Assisted Service
- Authorized Ports of Entry
- Step-by-Step Application Process
- Additional Ethiopia Entry Requirements
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Understanding the Ethiopia E-Visa
The Ethiopia E-Visa is an official travel document issued by the Main Department for Immigration and Nationality Affairs. It serves as a digital replacement for traditional embassy visas for tourism and business. Once your application is processed, you will receive an E-Visa approval via email, which you must print and present at the border to receive your entry stamp.
Do I Need an Ethiopia E-Visa?
Yes, as a U.S. citizen, a visa is mandatory for entry. While Ethiopia has historically offered a visa on arrival at the airport, the E-Visa is now the strongly preferred and most reliable method to ensure entry without delays.
You should apply for an Ethiopia E-Visa if your purpose is:
- Tourism: Vacationing, sightseeing, or visiting family and friends.
- Business: Attending meetings, workshops, or exhibitions.
Note: If you are traveling to Ethiopia for work, investment, or government-related business, you must apply for a specific business visa or consult the Ethiopian Embassy.
Visa Types, Fees, and Stay Limits
Ethiopia offers two different Tourist E-Visas based on the length of your stay. Note that these are currently single-entry visas.
| Visa Type | Validity | Maximum Stay | Gov. Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist E-Visa (30 Days) | 30 Days | 30 Days | $82 USD |
| Tourist E-Visa (90 Days) | 90 Days | 90 Days | $202 USD |
Application Methods: DIY vs. Assisted Service
The Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia manages all E-Visa applications through its centralized digital portal. Accuracy in completing the visa application and the quality of your uploaded documents are crucial, as errors or low-quality scans can lead to processing delays or rejection.
- Direct Application (DIY): Travelers may apply directly via the official Ethiopia E-Visa portal. This requires the user to independently manage digital uploads and monitor their application status using their reference number.
- Assisted Service (iVisa): For travelers who prefer expert assistance and review, iVisa provides a comprehensive application process. Their team verifies that your travel documents and U.S. passport scan meet exact legibility standards, significantly reducing the risk of a "denied" status. They offer 24/7 bilingual support.
To enter Ethiopia, your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your intended date of entry. You also need at least one fully blank visa page for the entry stamp. If you do not meet these requirements, renew your passport before applying for an Ethiopia tourist E-Visa.
Check Expedited Passport Renewal Options (1-Week Service Available)
Authorized Ports of Entry
The Ethiopia E-Visa is currently valid for entry by air only at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD).
Note: If you intend to enter Ethiopia via any land border (such as from Kenya or Djibouti), you must obtain a traditional sticker visa from an Ethiopian Embassy in advance.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Applications should be submitted at least 3–7 days before your intended date of departure.
Step 1: Get Your Information Ready
- Valid U.S. Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months from your intended date of entry.
- Passport Photo: A recent digital passport-style color photo.
- Bio-Page Scan: A clear, color scan of your passport's information page.
Step 2: Complete the Online Application
- Access the official portal or use an assisted service like iVisa.
- Fill out your personal and travel details exactly as they appear on your U.S. passport.
- Upload your digital documents and pay the non-refundable government fees via credit or debit card.
Step 3: Receive and Print Your E-Visa
- Confirmation: Once approved, your E-Visa authorization will be sent to your email.
- Physical Copy: You must print a physical copy of the E-Visa to present to immigration officials upon arrival to obtain your entry stamp.
Additional Ethiopia Entry Requirements
A visa approval allows you to travel to Ethiopia, but does not guarantee final admission. The final entry decision is determined by immigration officers at the port of entry.
Be prepared to show:
- Proof of Onward Travel: You may be asked to provide proof of a confirmed return or onward flight itinerary.
- Yellow Fever: A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required if you are arriving from a country with a risk of Yellow Fever transmission.
- Minors: Children traveling on their own U.S. passports require their own E-Visa. If a minor is traveling with only one parent, a notarized consent form is recommended.
Ethiopia E-Visa Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
While a visa on arrival is still technically available for some foreign travelers, it is highly recommended to obtain an E-Visa in advance to avoid long lines and potential paperwork issues upon arrival that could cause delays or denials.
No. The E-Visa is currently only accepted for arrivals at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport. Land entry requires a traditional sticker visa from an Ethiopian Embassy.
No. The standard tourist E-Visa is for a single entry only. If you leave Ethiopia, you must apply for a new visa to return.
Yes. You must present a printed paper copy of your approved E-Visa to the immigration officer at the airport to receive your entry stamp.
Yes. Travelers can apply in person for a visa extension at the Main Department for Immigration and Nationality Affairs in Addis Ababa before their current visa expires.
Secure your Ethiopia E-Visa through iVisa today to ensure your application meets all official documentation standards.
