Ethiopian visa resources
Who needs an Ethiopian visa
Whether you need a visa for Ethiopia depends on your nationality and purpose; most travellers need one, while a small number of nationalities are visa-free.
Important
Nearly all foreign nationals require a visa to enter Ethiopia. The tourist eVisa is open to citizens of all countries, and a defined list of nationalities can instead obtain a tourist visa on arrival at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport. A small number of nationalities are exempt from a visa altogether.
The purpose of your trip determines the correct route: tourism and family visits use the tourist visa; commercial visits use the business visa; and work, study, joining family, investment or long-term settlement each have their own dedicated route through the Immigration and Citizenship Service.
Key points
- Nationals of Kenya and Djibouti are reported to be visa-exempt (confirm current rules)
- Eligible nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival at Bole International Airport
- The tourist eVisa is open to all nationalities online
- People of Ethiopian origin with foreign citizenship may use the Ethiopian Origin ID for visa-free entry
Next steps
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.