How to apply Ethiopia eVisa

Ethiopia eVisa is a digital visa system that enables travellers to secure entry permits to Ethiopia online, bypassing the need for embassy visits. Launched by Ethiopia's government, this service facilitates a more straightforward visa application process for tourists and visitors through an online form and document submission, including a passport-sized photo. It caters to tourists from specified countries, offering options for single and multiple entries based on the traveller's requirements.

Upon approval, the eVisa is emailed to the applicant, who must show it upon entering Ethiopia, simplifying the travel process and aligning with the global shift towards digital travel documentation for improved convenience and security.

Comparing Visa on Arrival and eVisa: Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages of Obtaining an Ethiopian eVisa:

• Convenience: Apply from anywhere, avoiding visiting an embassy or consulate.
• Saves Time: Quick and efficient online application process.
• User-Friendly: Simple steps to complete the application, including form filling and document upload.
• Stress Reduction: Eliminates the anxiety of securing travel documents upon arrival.
• Predictability: Offers certainty regarding visa status before travelling.

Disadvantages (Implicit/In Comparison to On-Arrival Visas):

• Requires Internet Access: Dependence on having online access to apply.
• Planning is needed. Must apply in advance, unlike at the border, where one can receive a visa upon arrival.
• Potential Technical Issues: Possibility of facing website downtime or other technical glitches.

Why do we need to take Ethiopia eVisa?

The digital visa system for Ethiopia offers numerous benefits compared to obtaining a visa upon arrival:

• Efficient Online Submission: Completing the application online is straightforward, requiring only a few minutes.
• Skip the Lines: Upon arrival in Ethiopia, bypass the lengthy visa queues.
• Rapid Approval Time: Most applications receive approval within 24 hours, though some may take up to three days.
• Comprehensive Eligibility: As of 2018, the eVisa has been accessible to nearly all nationalities, broadening its availability.

What are the requirements for an Ethiopian eVisa?

When applying for an Ethiopia eVisa, specific travel documents are required. Provide these documents to ensure the application process is completed on time. To submit an Ethiopia Tourist visa via the online form, you'll need:

• A passport which remains valid for a minimum of six months beyond your planned entry date into Ethiopia.
• An image of the passport's information page.
• One passport-sized photo.
• A credit or debit card is needed to pay the visa fees.
• An active email address where the granted Ethiopia eVisa will be sent.

Other Necessary Documentation Required for Securing an Ethiopian Business Visa:

• Invitation Letter Requirement (if applicable): An official letter from the host company directed to Ethiopia's Main Department for Immigration and Nationality Affairs.
• Business License of the Host Company (if applicable): Proof of the inviting company's legal business operations in Ethiopia.
• Taxpayer Identification Number Certificate (if applicable): The host company must provide its TIN Certificate to verify its tax registration.
• Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs notes (if applicable): Necessary for international or inter-governmental hosts.
• Media Professionals Requirement (if applicable): Journalists require a letter of support from the Government Communications Office or the Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
• Electronic Document Submission Guidelines: Documents can be uploaded in JPEG, JPG, PNG, BMP, GIF, or PDF formats, with a size limit of 2MB each. Note that photographs and passport scans cannot be submitted in PDF format.

Note: Ethiopia’s Main Department for Immigration and Nationality Affairs website further clarifies that passport photographs and images must be readable and adhere to the supported file formats for successful submission.

What are the types of eVisa available in Ethiopia?

The two main types of eVisas that the Ethiopian government issues are:

• Tourist Visas

• Business Visas

Tourist Visas

These visas are allocated to international travellers from Ethiopia for leisure, sightseeing, or other non-commercial activities. Issuance can occur through Ethiopian diplomatic missions abroad, online applications, or upon arrival, subject to the traveller's nationality.

Business Visas

This category encompasses visas granted for various professional or business activities within Ethiopia:

• Conference Attendance Visa (CV): For those attending international conferences, seminars, or workshops hosted by governmental or private entities, including educational institutions in Ethiopia.

• Employment Visa for Foreign Business Entities (WV): Aimed at individuals employed by foreign companies operating in Ethiopia.

• Government Sector Employment Visa (GV): Designated for individuals taking positions within Ethiopian Government bodies or ministries.

• Private Sector Work Visa (PE): For short-term employment in Ethiopian private sector companies.

• Work Visa for International Organizations/Embassies (RI): Intended for individuals invited to work with international organisations or embassies within Ethiopia.

• Short-term Government Assignment Visa (GIV): For foreign nationals on short-term tasks in Ethiopian government institutions.

• Non-Governmental Organization Visa (NGO): Issued to those invited by NGOs in Ethiopia for work or short-term projects.

• Investor Visa (IV): For foreign nationals planning to invest in Ethiopia or those already involved in investment activities.

• Media and Journalism Visa: For journalists, media professionals, or filmmakers visiting Ethiopia for work-related purposes.

How do I fill out the Ethiopia eVisa application form?

Securing an Ethiopian e-visa is simple, offering the convenience of applying from home. Below is a detailed guide on navigating the Ethiopian e-visa application process, including the application process, fee payment, and confirmation.

Step 1: Visit the application page.

Navigate to the application page of this website. Then click on the Apply button.

Step 2: Select the visa category

In the visa selection section, choose the 'Visa Type' option. From the dropdown menu, pick the specific visa you're applying for. Then click on the 'Visa Validity' box to determine the duration of your visa's validity. If necessary, enter the reference number provided by your company. At last, click on the “I agree to the terms and conditions option," then click on the next button.

Step 3: Fill in the Arrival information

• Arrival Information: This section captures essential details about your entry into Ethiopia.
• Arrival Date: The specific date you plan to enter Ethiopia.
• Departure Information: Information about your point of departure.
• Departure Country: The country from where you will be flying to Ethiopia.
• Departure City: The city in the departure country from which your flight will take off.
• Airline: The name of the airline you will be flying with.
• Flight Number: The specific flight number assigned by the airline.
• Address in Ethiopia: Details concerning your accommodation in Ethiopia.
• Accommodation Type: The category of your stay place (e.g., hotel, guesthouse, apartment).
• Accommodation Name: The official name of the place you will be staying.
• Accommodation City: The city in Ethiopia where your accommodation is located.
• Accommodation Street Address: The precise street address of your accommodation, including any pertinent details to locate it.
• Accommodation Telephone: A contact phone number for your place of stay, suitable for coordination or in case of emergencies.

Step 4: Write details of personal information

• Personal Details:
  • Given Name: Your first name as it appears in your passport.
  • Surname: Your last or family name, as in your passport.
  • Citizenship: the country of which you are a legally recognised citizen.
  • Gender: Your gender identity. Options include ' male ' or 'female'.
• Birth and contact information:
  • Country of Birth: The country where you were born.
  • Date of Birth: The specific date you were delivered, typically in the format YYYY-MM-DD.
  • Place of Birth: The city or town where your birth occurred.
  • Email Address: Write a valid email address to receive communications regarding your application. It must be entered accurately.
  • Confirm email address: Re-enter your previous email address to ensure it has been provided correctly.
  • Phone Number: A contact number where you can be reached, including country code.
• Occupation and Residence Information:
  • Occupation: Your current job title or profession.
  • Street Address: The address of your current residence, including any apartment or suite numbers.
  • Address City: The city where your current residence is located.
  • Address Country: The country of your current residence

Step 5: Fill the passport details

• Passport Type: Specifies the category of your passport, such as regular, diplomatic, or official, depending on your status.
• Passport Number: The unique identification number assigned to your passport is critical for travel document verification.
• Passport Issue Date: The date when your passport was officially issued is necessary for determining the document's validity period.
• Passport Expiry Date: This indicates when your passport will no longer be valid, a crucial date for ensuring travel eligibility.
• Passport Issuing Country: The country that issued your passport, signifying your national identity or residence status in international travel.
• Passport Issuing Authority: The specific government or agency that issued your passport provides an additional layer of identification and verification.

Step 6: Review process

The eVisa application review is crucial to ensuring accuracy and compliance with visa regulations:

• Verify all entered details for correctness and completeness.
• If errors are found, edit by returning to previous pages.
• Proceed with the application by clicking ‘Next’ if all details are correct.

Step 7: Attachment Instructions:

• File Size Limit: Ensure that the file size of any image or document you're attaching is under 2MB.

• Specific Formats for Photos and Passport Copies: Your photo and passport copy should be in formats like JPEG, JPG, or PNG.

• Accepted File Types: You can upload files in JPEG, JPG, PNG, and PDF formats. These are the only file types allowed for your documents and images.

• Clarity and Legibility: Ensure each image or document you upload is clear and easy to read. Blurry or unclear backgrounds in your photos or documents will not be accepted.

• Photograph Guidelines: Follow the screenshot below for tips on taking a suitable photograph.

Required Documents for Upload:

• Passport Copy: [Option to upload a file]

• Photo: [Option to upload a file]

Please follow these guidelines closely to ensure your visa application process smoothly.

Payment Process:

Your e-visa application has been successfully submitted. To continue with the process, please proceed to the payment section. Be aware that processing your request will only commence after your payment has been successfully completed.

Available Payment Methods

• Credit Card/Google Pay: Choose this option for a seamless transaction using your credit card or Google Pay account.
• Alipay/WeChat Pay: Select this method if you prefer to use Alipay or WeChat Pay for your payment.

Please ensure the payment is made promptly to avoid delays in processing your e-visa application.

How to Check Your eVisa Application Status?

To check the application status of your visa, you typically need to follow a secure online procedure, which involves:

• Navigating to the Visa Status Check Page: Access the designated section on the website where you applied for your visa.
• Entering Required Information:
  • Passport Number: Input the passport number you used during your visa application. This number is crucial for identifying your specific application.
  • Reference Code: Enter the unique reference code or application number provided to you after submitting your visa application. This code is essential for retrieving the status of your application.
  • Submission: After correctly entering the required details, click the 'submit' button or its equivalent to proceed with the status check.

Upon submission, the system will process your inquiry and display the current status of your visa application. This status can give you insight into whether your application is still under review, has been approved, requires additional information, or has been denied. If you encounter any issues or do not see an update, it's advisable to contact visa application support for assistance.

Ethiopia eVisa Fee

The Ethiopia eVisa fee is determined by the duration of the visa permit stay and the specific type of visa being applied for. This system lets travellers pick a visa that matches their travel reasons, like tourism, business, or transit. To keep applicants updated:

• Visit the application payment process page. You will find it below the homepage of the website.
• Here, visitors can find current eVisa fees and details.
• This portal helps applicants choose the right eVisa based on their travel duration and purpose.

Ethiopia e-Visa Processing Time

The Ethiopia e-Visa processing typically takes 24 hours to 3 business days, influenced by application volume and submission accuracy. Key points include:

• Make sure your application is accurate and complete to prevent any processing delays.
• The e-Visa system streamlines the process, allowing for electronic receipt without embassy visits.
• Applicants should apply ahead of their travel date to mitigate any unexpected delays.
• Status updates and the final e-visa are accessible through the e-visa status tool.
• Once approved, the e-visa is emailed to the applicant for printing and use upon arrival in Ethiopia.

COVID-19 Precautions for Ethiopia E-Visa Applicants

To protect both residents and visitors amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Ethiopian authorities have implemented several safety measures:

• Testing Requirements: Travellers must undergo a PCR test within 72 hours before boarding and a quick antigen test 24 hours before travel, at the latest.
• Vaccine Documentation: While proof of COVID-19 vaccination is not mandatory for entry into Ethiopia, certain relaxations apply to vaccinated individuals.

Guidelines for Vaccinated Individuals:

• Fully vaccinated travellers and children under 12 are exempt from pre-arrival testing.
• Vaccinations accepted include Johnson and Johnson, AstraZeneca, Sinopharm, Sinovac, Moderna, and Pfizer.
• A traveller is deemed fully vaccinated two months after receiving all recommended doses of a COVID-19 vaccine.

Quarantine Policies: Ethiopia has not imposed quarantine requirements for incoming travellers.

Frequently asked questions