Ethiopia eVisa FAQ

Visit the eVisa application portal, fill out the online form with your personal and passport information, upload required documents (passport scan and photo), and pay the visa fee using a credit or debit card. You'll receive your eVisa via email within 3-5 business days. See our detailed step-by-step application guide.

You need: (1) Valid passport with at least 6 months validity, (2) Digital passport-sized photo in JPEG format with white background, (3) Credit or debit card for payment, and (4) Email address. Check our complete requirements checklist for details.

The standard processing time is 3-5 business days. However, we recommend applying at least 7-10 days before your intended travel date to allow for any unexpected delays. Weekends and Ethiopian public holidays don't count toward processing time. Read more about processing times.

Use your application reference number (provided after submission) to check status online. You'll also receive email notifications at key stages. Visit our application status guide for detailed tracking instructions.

No, most eVisa applications cannot be edited after submission. This is why careful review before submitting is crucial. If you discover an error, contact support immediately. For significant errors, you may need to submit a new application. Use our application form guide to fill it correctly the first time.

Validity period (90 days): The timeframe during which you can ENTER Ethiopia from the eVisa issue date. Duration of stay (30 or 90 days): How long you can REMAIN in Ethiopia after entry. These are two different things. Full explanation in our validity guide.

Yes, extensions are possible but not guaranteed. You must apply in person at the Immigration office in Addis Ababa before your current visa expires. Extensions are granted at discretionary basis. It's better to apply for the correct duration initially (90 days if uncertain). Read our extension guide.

All Ethiopian eVisas are single entry only. Once you exit Ethiopia, your eVisa becomes invalid even if the duration of stay hasn't expired. If you need to re-enter Ethiopia, you must apply for a new eVisa.

Overstaying is a serious immigration violation with consequences including daily fines, detention, deportation, and potential ban from future entry. Always exit before your visa expires or apply for an extension well in advance. Never overstay your authorized period.

Yes, it's highly recommended to print at least 2-3 copies of your eVisa. While it's electronic, immigration officers typically request a printed copy upon arrival. Also keep digital copies on your phone/email as backup. Both printed and digital versions should be carried.

eVisas are valid at designated entry points, primarily Addis Ababa Bole International Airport. Some other airports and border crossings may accept eVisas, but it's essential to verify before travel. Most international travelers arrive at Bole Airport. See arrival information.

Present: (1) Your passport (same one used for eVisa), (2) Printed eVisa, (3) Return/onward ticket (may be requested), (4) Hotel booking or accommodation details (if asked), (5) Yellow fever certificate if arriving from endemic country.

For eVisa holders, immigration typically takes 15-30 minutes depending on queue length and time of arrival. Early morning international flights can be busier. Having all documents ready speeds up the process significantly.

Yes, legitimate eVisa platforms use SSL encryption and secure payment gateways. Always verify you're on the correct website (check for HTTPS and padlock icon in browser). Never enter personal or payment information on unsecured sites.

No, there is currently no official expedited processing for Ethiopian eVisas. All applications follow the standard 3-5 business day timeline. Apply early to ensure you receive your eVisa before your travel date. Last-minute applications are risky.

As long as you enter Ethiopia within the 90-day validity period from the issue date, you can be flexible with your exact dates. If your new travel date is outside the 90-day window, you'll need to apply for a new eVisa closer to your new travel date.

No, eVisas do not permit employment or paid work in Ethiopia. Tourist visas are for leisure only. Business visas allow meetings, conferences, and business activities but not employment. If you plan to work in Ethiopia, you need a work permit through different channels.

Travel insurance is not mandatory for the eVisa application, but it's strongly recommended for your trip. Insurance can cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and other unforeseen circumstances during your stay in Ethiopia.

No, eVisas must be obtained before entering Ethiopia. You cannot apply for an eVisa while already in the country. If you're in Ethiopia and need to extend your stay, you must apply for a visa extension at the Immigration office, not a new eVisa.