Ethiopia entry requirements: What do you need to travel?

Ethiopia is one of the gems of Africa. The cities in Ethiopia are filled with history from a long long time ago, you can see the Rift Valley where the continent is literally being split in two from the ground up and their coffee is one of, if not the best in the world. This and all the other amazing things to see in Ethiopia make the African country a destination you shouldn’t miss. 

But what are the Ethiopia entry requirements you must comply with? Learn about what you need to travel to Ethiopia here.

Ethiopia entry requirements

Visa 

The most important out of all the Ethiopia entry requirements is having an approved visa when you cross the border.

Almost every foreigner wishing to visit the country is going to need to get an Ethiopia visa, no matter the reasons for the trip. You will need to fill out a form with personal information, the reason for your visit and the amount of time you will spend in the country.

This travel document is valid for 30 days and it's easily applied for online through the website of Visagov. You can find out if your nationality is eligible for this in our eligibility checker. 

Passport

Another of the essential Ethiopia entry requirements is having a current passport. All visa types for Ethiopia require a passport that is valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry. 

Vaccination

There are no mandatory vaccines as part of the Ethiopia entry requirements. The exception is if you come from a country where Yellow Fever still exists. If that’s your case, you will need to present proof of vaccination against the disease.

It is also recommended that you be vaccinated against:

• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• MMR (Measles, Rubella and Mumps)
• Polio
• Shingles
• Flu
• Hepatitis A and B
• Cholera
• Meningitis
• Rabies
• Typhoid

Travel insurance

Even though it is not one of the mandatory Ethiopia entry requirements, it’s advisable to take out a travel insurance policy before arriving in Ethiopia. 

Currency

The Ethiopian currency is the Ethiopian birr. Ethiopia is still mainly a cash economy: You should exchange your currency to birrs at the airport (although you can also do this in banks) because paying with credit card is not accepted in every place. Besides, you will need coins for tipping, as it is very common in the country.