Can I get a visa on arrival instead?

Only at Addis Ababa airport and only for some nationalities. The e-visa is safer and costs the same. Land borders require the e-visa.

What if my e-visa is rejected?

Rejections are rare for complete applications. You can reapply immediately or visit an Ethiopian embassy. Common rejection reasons include blurry photos or invalid passport details.

Can I enter Ethiopia before my e-visa start date?

No. The e-visa is valid from the start date you selected. Arrive on or after that date, not before.

Do I need yellow fever vaccination for the e-visa?

Vaccination isn't required for the e-visa application, but you may need proof at the airport if arriving from yellow fever risk countries. Check current health requirements separately.

How to Get an Ethiopia E-Visa

Apply online at evisa.gov.et at least 3 days before travel with your passport, photo, and credit card. Most tourists get approved within 72 hours for $52 USD. Print the approval letter to show at immigration.

Check if you need a visa. Citizens of most countries need a visa for Ethiopia. Only Kenya and Djibouti nationals get visa-free entry. If you hold a US, EU, UK, Canadian, or Australian passport, you need the e-visa.
Gather required documents. You need: a passport valid for 6+ months with 2 blank pages, a passport-style digital photo (white background, face visible), and a credit or debit card for payment. No invitation letters or hotel bookings required for tourist visas.
Go to the official website. Visit evisa.gov.et (the only official site). Avoid third-party visa services that charge extra fees. Click 'Apply for E-Visa' and select your nationality from the dropdown menu.
Fill out the application. Complete all fields: personal info, passport details, travel dates, and purpose of visit. Most tourists select '30-day single entry tourist visa.' Upload your passport photo (JPEG, under 2MB). Double-check everything before submitting.
Pay the visa fee. Tourist visa costs $52 USD. Business visa costs $72 USD. Transit visa costs $32 USD. Pay with Visa or Mastercard. You'll get a confirmation email with your application reference number immediately.
Wait for approval. Processing takes 3-5 business days. Check your email and spam folder. You'll receive an approval letter PDF. If rejected (rare), you can reapply or visit an Ethiopian embassy.
Print your approval. Print the approval letter in color and carry it with your passport. Ethiopian immigration will stamp your passport upon arrival. Keep a digital copy on your phone as backup.

Can I get a visa on arrival instead?: Only at Addis Ababa airport and only for some nationalities. The e-visa is safer and costs the same. Land borders require the e-visa.
What if my e-visa is rejected?: Rejections are rare for complete applications. You can reapply immediately or visit an Ethiopian embassy. Common rejection reasons include blurry photos or invalid passport details.
Can I enter Ethiopia before my e-visa start date?: No. The e-visa is valid from the start date you selected. Arrive on or after that date, not before.
Do I need yellow fever vaccination for the e-visa?: Vaccination isn't required for the e-visa application, but you may need proof at the airport if arriving from yellow fever risk countries. Check current health requirements separately.