Addis Ababa Entry Requirements

Children must have their own passport (cannot be included on parent's passport). All visa requirements apply to children regardless of age. Children under 18 traveling without both parents should carry a notarized letter of consent from the non-traveling parent(s) authorizing the trip, including contact information and passport details of the consenting parent(s). This is particularly important if the child is traveling with only one parent or with guardians/relatives. Birth certificates may be requested to prove relationship. For adopted children, carry adoption papers. Unaccompanied minors require special arrangements with airlines and must have appropriate documentation and designated guardians at both departure and arrival points.

Pets (dogs and cats) can be imported into Ethiopia but require: (1) Valid health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of travel, (2) Current rabies vaccination certificate (administered at least 30 days but not more than 12 months before entry), (3) Import permit from the Ethiopian Ministry of Agriculture (apply well in advance), (4) Pets must be examined by Ethiopian veterinary authorities upon arrival at the airport. Some airlines have restrictions on pet travel to/from Ethiopia - check with your carrier. Birds and other animals have additional requirements. Certain breeds may be restricted. Ethiopia does not recognize emotional support animals - only certified service dogs with proper documentation. Expect to pay fees for veterinary inspection at the airport.

Tourist e-Visas are typically issued for 30 or 90 days and are single entry. If you need to stay longer, you must apply for a visa extension at the Main Immigration Office in Addis Ababa (near Mexico Square) before your current visa expires. Bring your passport, passport photos, completed extension application form, proof of accommodation, and extension fee (varies by duration). Extensions are not guaranteed and are granted at the discretion of immigration authorities. Apply at least one week before your visa expires. For long-term stays (work, study, residence), you must apply for the appropriate visa category through an Ethiopian embassy before traveling, or have your employer/institution sponsor your application. Overstaying your visa can result in fines, detention, and deportation, and may affect future travel to Ethiopia.

Business visitors can apply for a business e-Visa (similar process to tourist e-Visa but selecting business purpose). You may need to provide an invitation letter from the Ethiopian company or organization you're visiting. Business visas are typically issued for 30 or 90 days. For frequent business travel, consider applying for a multiple-entry visa through an Ethiopian embassy. If you plan to work in Ethiopia (not just attend meetings), you'll need a work permit sponsored by your employer, which is a separate process from the business visa. Bringing professional equipment may require temporary import documentation through customs.

Journalists, photographers, and film crews must obtain special permission and accreditation from the Ethiopian Government Communication Affairs Office before traveling. Regular tourist or business visas are not appropriate for journalistic activities. Apply well in advance (at least 4-6 weeks) through an Ethiopian embassy with detailed information about your assignment. Unauthorized journalistic activities can result in detention, deportation, and equipment confiscation. Even amateur photography of government buildings, military installations, airports, and bridges may be restricted - always ask permission.

Persons of Ethiopian origin or dual nationals (Ethiopian and another nationality) may face different requirements. Ethiopia recognizes dual nationality in limited circumstances. If you were born in Ethiopia or to Ethiopian parents, you may be considered an Ethiopian citizen even if you hold another passport. Contact the Ethiopian embassy before traveling to clarify your status and documentation requirements. You may need to enter/exit on an Ethiopian passport if authorities consider you an Ethiopian citizen. This can affect visa requirements and consular assistance availability.

Passengers transiting through Addis Ababa Bole International Airport without leaving the international transit area and continuing their journey within 24 hours generally do not require a visa. Ensure your onward flight is confirmed and you have boarding passes for connecting flights. If you wish to leave the airport to visit the city or if your layover exceeds 24 hours, you will need to obtain the appropriate visa (transit or tourist e-Visa). Ethiopian Airlines offers complimentary hotel accommodation for certain long layovers on their flights - check eligibility when booking. If you have checked baggage, confirm whether it will be checked through to your final destination or if you need to collect and re-check it (which would require a visa to exit the transit area).