What are the entry rules at Ethiopia’s borders?

While Ethiopia has modernized its visa process, specific regulations at land and air borders, as well as health requirements, must be followed to ensure a smooth entry.

Here is a comprehensive guide to the entry rules at Ethiopia's borders for tourists and business travelers.

Visa Requirements

The majority of the foreign visitors require a visa to enter Ethiopia. Yet it is worthy to note that:

• For land border crossings, only a visa obtained in advance from an Ethiopian embassy or consulate is accepted.
• At the land borders, no visas are issued in Ethiopia.Visa on arrival is available at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport for travelers from eligible countries, including many African Union member states and selected other nationalities.
• The e-Visa of Ethiopia is only applicable when entering via air via Addis Ababa Bole International Airport. On a land crossing, travellers who are trying to use an e-Visa will not be allowed to enter.
• Citizens of Kenya and Djibouti may enter Ethiopia visa-free for short stays, provided they hold a valid passport.

Passport and Travel Documents

Passports should have at least 6 months' validity starting from the expected date of entry.
Travelers should ensure their passport is stamped upon entry to avoid heavy fines or detention.
Temporary passports or emergency travel documents may have different entry rules; check with the Ethiopian consular services before travel.
A return or onward travel ticket may be requested by immigration authorities.

Health and Vaccination Requirements

As of now, all COVID-19-related entry restrictions have been lifted, and travelers are not required to present vaccination or test certificates.
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for travelers arriving from countries with yellow fever risk or those transiting for more than 12 hours through such countries.
Malaria prophylaxis is recommended in many parts of Ethiopia except Addis Ababa.

Border and Entry Points

Land entry is allowed only without using unofficial points of entry.
For safety reasons, travelers are strongly advised to avoid areas within 10 km of the Eritrea, Sudan, Kenya, and South Sudan borders. This is a security advisory, not an entry restriction.
Additional documents can be ordered for vehicle crossings.

Customs Restrictions

Electronics like satellite phones, drones, binoculars, and rangefinders might have to be pre-approved by the Ethiopian authorities.
These items may be confiscated, fined, or detained in the event of taking them without permission.
Personal electronic devices may be subject to customs inspection. Bringing multiple phones or high-value electronics could require declaration or import duty.

Overstay and Exit

Travelers who overstay their visa are subject to daily fines, which must be paid before departure. To avoid penalties, request a visa extension from local immigration offices before your visa expires.
What are the penalties for violating Ethiopian border entry rules?

Entering Ethiopia without a valid visa or attempting to use an e-Visa at a land border is a violation of immigration law. Consequences may include:

• Denied entry at the border.
• Fines or penalties.
• Possible deportation.
• Travelers should always secure the correct visa for their planned entry point.