Ethiopia eVisa Rejection Reasons

While the majority of Ethiopian eVisa applications are approved, some applications are rejected. Understanding the common reasons for rejection helps you avoid these issues and ensures your application succeeds on the first attempt.

If your eVisa application is denied, you'll receive a notification explaining the reason. The good news is that many rejection reasons can be addressed, allowing you to reapply with a better chance of success.

This guide covers the most common rejection reasons, how to prevent them, and what steps to take if your application is denied.

1. Passport-Related Issues

Insufficient validity (most common passport issue):

• Passport expires in less than 6 months
• Validity calculated from entry date, not application date
• Solution: Renew passport before reapplying

Damaged or illegible passport:

• Bio-data page torn, water damaged, or unclear
• Information not readable in scan
• Solution: Replace passport before applying

Insufficient blank pages:

• No blank pages for entry stamps
• Solution: Add pages or renew passport

2. Photo-Related Issues

Wrong background color:

• Background is not plain white
• Using blue, gray, or other colored backgrounds
• Solution: Retake photo with white background

Incorrect file format:

• Submitting PNG, GIF, or other formats instead of JPEG
• Solution: Convert to JPEG and resubmit

File too large:

• Photo exceeds 200 KB maximum
• Solution: Compress or resize image

Poor quality or non-compliant:

• Blurry, pixelated, or low resolution
• Wearing sunglasses, hat, or improper expression
• Shadows on face or background
• Solution: Retake following all photo requirements

3. Application Form Errors

Name discrepancies:

• Name spelled differently than in passport
• First and last names reversed
• Missing middle names shown in passport
• Solution: Reapply with exact passport spelling

Incorrect passport number:

• Even one wrong digit invalidates application
• Solution: Double-check and reapply with correct number

Wrong dates:

• Date of birth doesn't match passport
• Passport issue/expiry dates incorrect
• Solution: Verify all dates against passport and reapply

4. Eligibility Issues

Nationality not eligible:

• Country not on eligible countries list
• Solution: Apply for visa through Ethiopian embassy

Wrong passport type:

• Using diplomatic or emergency travel document
• Solution: Use ordinary passport or contact embassy

Best Practices

Before applying:

• Review ALL requirements thoroughly
• Check passport validity carefully
• Prepare compliant photo in advance
• Have all information and documents ready
• Read application guide

During application:

• Enter all information exactly as shown in passport
• Double-check every field before moving forward
• Upload high-quality, clear document scans
• Ensure photo meets all specifications
• Use stable internet connection

Before submitting:

• Review entire application thoroughly
• Verify passport number character by character
• Check date formats are correct
• Confirm email address is accurate
• Have someone else review if possible

After applying:

• Save confirmation and reference number
• Monitor application status
• Check email regularly for any requests
• Respond promptly to document requests

Quality Checklist

• ✓ Passport valid 6+ months
• ✓ Photo: JPEG, white background, under 200KB
• ✓ All names match passport exactly
• ✓ Passport number absolutely correct
• ✓ Dates match passport
• ✓ Clear, high-quality document uploads