Ethiopia eVisa Requirements

Before starting your Ethiopian eVisa application, it's crucial to understand and prepare all the required documents. The eVisa system is designed to be straightforward, but having all necessary materials ready ensures a smooth application process and minimizes the risk of delays or rejection.

The Ethiopian government has established clear requirements for eVisa applications. These requirements apply to all eligible nationalities and vary slightly depending on whether you're applying for a tourist or business visa. Preparing these documents in advance will help you complete your application efficiently.

This comprehensive guide covers all the requirements you need to know, including specific document specifications, technical requirements for digital submissions, and common mistakes to avoid.

Validity Period

One of the most important requirements is passport validity. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended date of entry into Ethiopia. This is a strict requirement enforced by Ethiopian immigration authorities.

Key Points:

• Check your passport expiration date carefully
• Count 6 months from your planned arrival date, not departure date
• If your passport expires soon, renew it before applying
• Insufficient validity will result in application rejection

Passport Type

The eVisa system accepts standard ordinary passports issued by eligible countries. Special considerations apply to:

• Diplomatic Passports: May require different procedures
• Official/Service Passports: Check with Ethiopian authorities
• Emergency Travel Documents: May not be eligible
• Refugee Travel Documents: Eligibility depends on issuing country

Passport Condition

Your passport must be in good condition:

• No torn or damaged pages
• Clear and legible information
• Bio-data page must be intact and readable
• At least one blank page for entry stamps

Biographical Information

When filling out the eVisa application form, ensure all information matches your passport exactly:

• Full name (as shown in passport)
• Date of birth
• Passport number
• Passport issue and expiry dates
• Nationality

Important: Any discrepancy between your application and passport information can lead to rejection or entry denial at the airport.

During the application process, you'll need to provide specific travel details. While you don't need to submit documents for these, you should have the information ready:

Required Travel Details

1. Intended Date of Arrival
   Your planned entry date into Ethiopia. Note that your eVisa will be valid for 90 days from the date of issue, and you must enter Ethiopia within this period.
2. Purpose of Visit
   Select the appropriate category: Tourism, Business, or Transit. Make sure this aligns with the type of eVisa you're applying for.
3. Accommodation Details
   While not always mandatory for the application, it's advisable to have hotel booking information or an address where you'll be staying in Ethiopia.
4. Port of Entry
   Most travelers enter through Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, but you should specify your intended port of entry.

Start Your Application

Top Reasons for Application Rejection

1. Insufficient Passport Validity
   Many applicants overlook the 6-month validity requirement. Always check your passport expiration date before applying. Learn more about passport requirements.
2. Incorrect Photo Format or Quality
   Photos that don't meet the specifications (wrong size, background, or file format) are a common cause of rejection. Review our photo requirements guide carefully.
3. Mismatched Information
   Ensure all information entered in the application form exactly matches your passport. Even small typos can cause problems.
4. Using the Wrong Passport
   If you have dual citizenship, you must use the same passport for both the eVisa application and entry into Ethiopia.
5. Payment Issues
   Ensure your payment method is valid and has sufficient funds. Check accepted payment methods.

Understanding common rejection reasons can help you avoid delays and ensure a successful application.