Ethiopia entry requirements for Egypt passport holders
Checked daily · Updated May 22, 2026·View sources
eVisa required
Max stay
No fixed limit
Passport validity
6 months
Beyond entry date
Return ticket
Required
Or onward travel proof
Proof of funds
Recommended
May be checked
Egyptian passport holders need an eVisa to enter Ethiopia. The process is entirely online — no embassy visit required. As of 2026, the eVisa is valid for tourism and short business trips.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| eVisa application Apply before departure | Apply for an Ethiopian eVisa at the official portal before you fly. The eVisa is valid for tourism or business visits up to 90 days. Processing takes 3 business days — do not book non-refundable flights until approved.Apply for eVisa | Required |
| Valid passport 6 months validity required | Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date from Ethiopia. Airlines check this at check-in — if your passport expires sooner, you will be denied boarding. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Proof of onward travel | Immigration officers at Addis Ababa Bole Airport routinely ask for a return or onward ticket. Have a printed or digital copy ready showing you leave Ethiopia within your eVisa validity. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel booking or host letter | Have a confirmed hotel reservation or a letter of invitation from your host ready. Immigration may ask for your first night's address on arrival. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Show you can support yourself | Carry cash (USD or EUR) or a bank statement showing you have at least $200–$300 for a short stay. ATMs are unreliable in Ethiopia — bring enough cash for your trip. | Recommended |
eVisa is mandatory — no visa on arrival
Egyptian passport holders cannot get a visa on arrival in Ethiopia. You must apply and receive approval online before your flight. Without it, you'll be denied boarding.
Passport validity counts from entry date
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the day you enter Ethiopia, not from your departure date. If it expires sooner, renew it before applying for the eVisa.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for the eVisa online
Go to www.evisa.gov.et and fill out the application. You'll need your passport details, travel dates, and a digital photo. Pay the fee with a credit card. Processing usually takes 3–5 business days.
2
Receive and print your eVisa
Once approved, you'll get an email with your eVisa PDF. Print it and keep a digital copy on your phone. You'll show it at immigration in Addis Ababa Bole International Airport.
3
Prepare your documents for departure
At Cairo International Airport, the airline will check your passport, eVisa, and return ticket. Have them ready at check-in.
4
Arrive at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport
After landing, follow signs to 'Immigration' or 'eVisa' counters. Present your passport, eVisa printout, and return ticket. The officer may ask your hotel name — have it handy. You'll get an entry stamp valid for up to 30 days.
Download Ethiopia Entry Checklist
PDF · Egypt Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated May 22, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Tourist visa single entry
Max stay30 days, extendable twice (30 days each)
Validity3 months from issue
Cost$52 USD (approx. 1,000 ETB)
Standard eVisa for tourism.
Tourist visa multiple entry
Max stay90 days total, extendable
Validity6 months from issue
Cost$72 USD (approx. 1,400 ETB)
For multiple entries.
Business visa
Max stay30 days, extendable
Validity3 months
Cost$70 USD (approx. 1,350 ETB)
Requires invitation letter from Ethiopian company.
Student visa
Max stayDuration of studies
Validity1 year, renewable
Cost$50 USD (approx. 965 ETB)
Requires admission letter from Ethiopian institution.
work visa
Ethiopia Work Permit
1 year, renewable
~$200 USD (approx. 3,860 ETB) per year
For foreign employees with a job offer from an Ethiopian company. Requires employer sponsorship and Ministry of Labor approval.
student visa
Ethiopia Student Visa
Duration of studies (1–4 years)
~$50 USD (approx. 965 ETB) per year
For enrolled students at recognized Ethiopian institutions. Requires admission letter and proof of funds.
investor visa
Ethiopia Investor Visa
1 year, renewable
~$500 USD (approx. 9,650 ETB) per year
For investors with a minimum investment of $100,000 USD in an Ethiopian business. Requires business registration and proof of investment.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Ethiopia eVisa (single entry, 30 days)Standard tourist eVisa fee for Egyptian passport holders. | $52 USD (approx. 1,000 ETB) |
| Ethiopia eVisa (multiple entry, 90 days)For multiple entries within validity. | $72 USD (approx. 1,400 ETB) |
| Visa extension (per 30 days)Available at immigration offices for up to 2 extensions. | $30 USD (approx. 580 ETB) |
| Overstay fine (per day)Charged daily for overstaying visa validity. | $3 USD (approx. 60 ETB) |
| Overstay fine (maximum cap)Maximum fine for overstay. | $100 USD (approx. 1,930 ETB) |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds proof30%
No return ticket25%
Incomplete application documents20%
Approval probability calculator
Answer 6 quick questions — we'll estimate how likely you are to be approved for entry based on typical immigration patterns.
Transiting through Ethiopia
No transit visa needed
Egyptian passport holders transiting through Ethiopia do not need a transit visa if staying airside and not passing through immigration. However, if you need to leave the airport or have a long layover, you must obtain an eVisa.
Airside transitAllowed
Exceptions & conditions
- Holders of a valid US, UK, or Schengen visa may transit without visa for up to 24 hours.
Transit hubsBole International Airport (ADD), Addis Ababa
Health & vaccines for Ethiopia
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired if arriving from a country with yellow fever risk; certificate must be presented.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidEssentialHepatitis BRecommendedRabiesConsiderMeningococcal MeningitisConsiderRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio, influenza)Essential
Health risks
MalariaHigh risk
Present throughout the country, especially in lowland areas below 2,000 meters.
Dengue FeverModerate risk
Occurs in urban and rural areas, especially during rainy seasons.
CholeraLow risk
Rare but possible in areas with poor sanitation.
Malaria risk: high
Prophylaxis recommended for all travelers, especially in lowland areas. Use mosquito repellent and nets.
Based on CDC and WHO guidance. Consult a travel medicine clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalised advice.
Immigration offices for extensions
Addis Ababa
Main Immigration Office (Addis Ababa)
Bole Road, near Bole International Airport
Mon–Fri 08:30–17:00
Main office for visa extensions and permits. Bring passport, photos, and fee.
Addis Ababa
Addis Ababa Immigration Office (Branch)
Around Mexico Square
Mon–Fri 08:30–16:30
Alternative location for extensions.
Practical information for EG travellers
Country basics
CapitalAddis Ababa
LanguageAmharic
Driving sideRight-hand traffic
US driving licenceUS visitors can drive with a valid US license for up to 90 days, but an International Driving Permit is recommended.
Money
CurrencyEthiopian birr (ETB)
Exchange rate
1 USD = 157.79 ETB
Time zone
Local timeUTC+3
vs New York+8h
vs Los Angeles+11h
Electricity
Voltage220V / 50Hz
Plug types
C,FType C (two round pins) and Type F (two round pins with grounding clips)
⚠ US adapter needed
Water & health
Tap water
Not safe — use bottled
Tap water is not safe to drink; use bottled or boiled water.
Emergency numbers
Frequently asked questions
Processing usually takes 3–5 business days. Apply at least a week before your trip to be safe. You'll get the result by email.
The eVisa fee is around $52 USD for a 30-day single-entry visa. Payment is online by credit card.
No, the eVisa is not extendable. If you need to stay longer, you must leave and reapply, or visit an immigration office in Addis Ababa before your visa expires to discuss options.
If you stay airside and don't pass immigration, you don't need a visa. But if you plan to leave the airport, you need the eVisa.
Rejections are rare but can happen if your passport has less than 6 months validity or if you have a criminal record. You can reapply with corrected info or contact the Ethiopian embassy in Cairo.
No, visa on arrival is not available for Egyptian passport holders. You must have an approved eVisa before you travel.
Your passport, printed eVisa, return ticket, and hotel booking. The officer may also ask for proof of funds — have a bank statement or credit card ready just in case.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on May 22, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.