FAQs

Injera (እንጀራ in Amharic, ጣይታ in Tigrinya) is a distinct, spongy, and slightly sour fermented flatbread that serves as a fundamental staple in Ethiopian and Eritrean cuisine. It is far more than just bread; it acts as the plate, the utensil, and a vital component of nearly every meal. What Is Injera? Injera is a soft, spongy, sour flatbread made from teff flour, a tiny, nutrient-rich grain native to Ethiopia. It has a slightly tangy taste due to the fermentation process. Injera texture is porous, perfect for soaking up stews and sauces. Key Features of Injera Main Ingredient: Teff flour Taste: Mildly sour due to natural fermentation Texture: Soft, spongy, slightly chewy Appearance: Large, round, pancake-like with visible pores on the surface Cooking Method: Poured on a flat griddle called a mitad, cooked on one side only Why Is Injera So Special? 1. Deep Cultural Importance Injera is not just food — it's a cultural icon. Meals in Ethiopia are typically served on a large round injera with different stews (known as wot) placed on top. People eat together from the same platter, tearing pieces of injera by hand to scoop up bites. This act of sharing represents hospitality, family bonding, and community spirit. 2. Naturally Healthy Teff, the main ingredient in traditional injera, is high in iron, fiber, and protein, and it's also gluten-free. The fermentation process used to make injera helps with digestibility and enhances its nutritional profile. 3. Flavor Meets Function The slightly sour taste of injera perfectly complements Ethiopia’s spicy, flavorful dishes. Its spongy texture soaks up sauces, turning every bite into a burst of taste and aroma. 4. Cultural Significance Central to Ethiopian and Eritrean meals Symbol of hospitality, community, and tradition Shared from a communal platter, often during holidays and gatherings Injera is not just a food item; it's a cornerstone of Ethiopian culinary identity and a symbol of their rich cultural heritage. So when you're in Ethiopia, let's try a freshly made injera to better understand the Ethiopian cuisine culture.

Yes, you can leave Bole International Airport (ADD) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, during a layover — but it depends on the length of your layover and your visa status. Following conditions: You have a visa, or you're from a country eligible for a visa on arrival or visa-free entry. Your layover is long enough (ideally 6+ hours) to allow time for immigration and city travel. You go through immigration and customs successfully. If you don’t meet visa requirements or have a short layover, you’ll need to stay inside the transit area. Visa Rules for Leaving the Airport Here are the details: 1. Visa Requirements If your layover is short and you remain within the international transit area without passing through immigration, you do not need a visa, but you cannot leave the airport. If your layover exceeds 12 hours and you want to exit the airport, you will need a transit visa or a tourist visa to leave the airport and enter Ethiopia. For Ethiopian Airlines passengers with a layover between 8 and 24 hours, the airline often provides a complimentary transit visa along with hotel accommodation, allowing you to leave the airport during the stopover. If you plan to leave the airport during your layover but do not qualify for any visa exemption, you should apply for an Ethiopian tourist visa in advance or on arrival if eligible. Visa Requirements for Leaving the Airport Visa Type Cost Processing Time Notes e-Visa $52 3 days Apply online Visa on Arrival $50-70 Immediate Available for most nationalities Visa-Free     Kenya, Rwanda, and Djibouti citizens 2. Layover Duration You should have at least 6–8 hours of layover time if you plan to leave the airport. This allows time for: Immigration and customs Travel to/from the city center (about 20–30 minutes) A short tour, meal, or rest Rechecking security before your next flight If your layover is less than 6 hours, it’s best to stay at the airport. What is a short layover in Addis Ababa? A short layover is typically considered under 4–5 hours. In that case, it's best to stay inside the airport, as there may not be enough time to leave, go through immigration, and get back through security before your next flight. Important Tips for Leaving the Airport Keep your boarding pass & visa handy because re-entry security checks are strict. Traffic Alert: Addis has heavy traffic, so allow 1+ hour to return. Money: Exchange some cash to ETB (Birr)—many places don’t accept cards. Safety: Stick to central areas and avoid walking alone at night. Pro tip: If short on time, enjoy the airport lounges (some offer showers and local food). In summary, you can only leave the airport during your layover in Addis Ababa if you have the appropriate visa (transit or tourist), and your layover is long enough to accommodate the visa and border formalities. If you do not have a visa or if your layover is short, you must stay within the airport’s international transit area.

No. A Schengen visa doesn't work as an entry pass to Ethiopia. Ethiopia has unique visa requirements that are quite different from those of most of the other countries around it. Ethiopia will not let any Schengen visas or third-country resident permits (such as US or UK) pass muster for entrance into its territory. Ethiopia Visa Requirements for Schengen Visa Holders If you have a valid Schengen visa or long-term resident permit in an EU country, you still need to provide a separate Ethiopian visa. No matter what the reason might be, your Schengen visa will not let you into Ethiopia. Is a Schengen Visa suitable for Ethiopia? No. A Schengen visa only authorizes travel within the Schengen Area. In Ethiopia, it has no force, and you must select from among: Ethiopian e-Visa (available online for eligible nationalities). Visa on arrival (available for a limited list of countries at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport). A visa from an Ethiopian embassy or consulate is required before your trip. How to Get an Ethiopian Visa for Ethiopia Most nationalities find arranging their Ethiopian visa a simple process for vacation purposes: Ethiopia eVisa (Highly Recommended): For most nationalities, the simplest and most convenient method is to apply for an Ethiopian eVisa through the official government portal. This allows you to receive your visa approval before traveling. This process is effective and allows you the opportunity to get your visa approval agents prior to partitioning. Visa on Arrival: If a visa on arrival is possible for some nationalities at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD), it is generally less work to apply for an eVisa in advance. This will save time and avoid potential confusion upon arrival. Embassy/Consulate: When particular circumstances call for it or if an eVisa is not possible, you may need to apply for a visa from an Ethiopian Embassy or Consulate. Final Answer Is a Schengen visa valid on arrival in Ethiopia? No. Before traveling, you must obtain a visa through a reliable Ethiopian source. Always check the latest entry requirements on the official Ethiopian immigration website or consult your nearest Ethiopian embassy.

Making a mistake on your Ethiopia e-Visa application can be stressful, but there are ways to address it effectively. If you discover that you made an error on your Ethiopia e-Visa application, or if you need to modify your submitted Ethiopia visa application details, then this is what you need to know. 1. Before Submission Remember to check your application thoroughly before you submit it. Once the form is submitted and payment is accepted, applicants are unable to edit information directly on the Ethiopian eVisa. Ensure that your personal details, passport information, and travel dates are correct. Typical Mistakes in the Ethiopian eVisa Application Wrong personal information related to name, passport number, and nationality. The incorrect travel date or type of visa that you selected. Missing or unmatching documents. Payment problems resulting in a failed submission. 2. If You See a Mistake After You Submit However, if you spot a mistake after you have already applied, you cannot make any changes to the Ethiopia eVisa application form online. Instead, you should immediately get in touch with the official Ethiopian e-Visa support through their official email (like [email protected]) or using the contact form on their website. Admit you were wrong, and request what you should do to fix it. Often, the advised course of action is to both cancel the wrong application and reapply using the proper details. This is to make certain that your visa reflects your travel documents accurately, which allows you to avoid any rejection at the border. 3. If Your Application is Denied for Errors You will normally receive a message if your e-Visa application is denied due to having made a mistake or providing incorrect data to the Ethiopian government. You'd then be able to reapply with corrected information. The government fee is usually non-refundable, but it also depends on the service provider whether the processing fee is refundable. Tips to Avoid Errors Enter details as per your passport. Check that your passport has at least six months’ validity from your planned date of return. Upload your Passport, Clear and Recent Photographs on your Dashboard. Have a rough idea of your travel plan on hand so you can input the arrival and departure dates with the correct details. Can I update the Wrong information on the Ethiopia e-Visa After Approval? No, once your e-Visa is approved and issued, you cannot change any details. If you find an error after approval, you must apply for a new visa with the correct information. While an error on your e-Visa is frustrating, acting quickly and precisely is key. Following these steps can help you fix an error on your Ethiopia e-Visa form and ensure a smooth entry for your traveling experience to Ethiopia.

If you're transiting through Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, you might be wondering: "Do I need a transit visa at Addis Ababa Airport?". The answer is: it depends on the duration of your layover and whether you plan to leave the airport. Do I Need a Transit Visa for Addis Ababa? You don’t need a transit visa if: You are still in the international transit area of Bole International Airport (Addis Ababa). You have a stopover of under 12 hours and have through tickets. But if you leave the airport — even for a day tour of the city or a night’s stay in a hotel — you will need a transit visa. What is an Addis Ababa Transit Visa? A transit visa is a temporary visa that allows travellers to depart from the airport, taking up residence in Ethiopia for 72 hours until their next connecting flight. It allows you to step out of the airport and spend a short while in the country without needing to obtain an entire tourist visa. Transit visa options include 12, 24, 48, and 72 hours. Ethiopian transit visa is ideally suited for travelers who: Have long layovers (12+ hours), Wish to explore Addis Ababa, or Have to change terminals or airlines and need to go through immigration. Can I Get Out of the Airport on an Ethiopian transit Visa? Yes, travelers holding a valid transit visa can leave the airport and experience the city, arrange to stay in a hotel, or go on a guided layover tour. Make sure your transit visa covers the full duration of your planned stay in Ethiopia. How to Apply for an Addis Ababa Transit Visa Online Option: Apply via the Ethiopian Visa portal (72h processing). On Arrival: Available at Bole Airport (have cash, passport copies, onward ticket). Ethiopia Transit Visa vs Tourist Visa Unlike the tourist visa, also valid for stays of 30 days, for tourism purposes or for business, the transit visa is intended only for brief stays for travelers on their way to somewhere else and is only valid for a few days. If your layover is a bit longer and you’re interested in exploring more than just the airport in Ethiopia, then a tourist visa may be more appropriate. Visa-Free Layovers in Addis Ababa If you’re just passing through Addis Ababa, not leaving the airport, and have a short stopover, you can enjoy visa-free transit. But this doesn't apply to everyone, so know where you stand before you go in. Conclusion In summary, if you are transiting via Ethiopia and have to leave the airport, you will need a transit visa for Addis Ababa. For brief, in-terminal layovers of less than 12 hours, you generally don’t need a visa. Plan your itinerary, check your visa requirements in advance, and make the most of your stopover in Addis Ababa.

Ethiopian visa payment refusal is a common issue that can throw a wrench into your travel plans; however, knowing the causes and possible solutions gives you the best start for entering Ethiopia’s bustling capital, Addis Ababa, and beyond. Common Reasons for Ethiopian Visa Payment Failure Common reasons for Ethiopian visa payments being declined include: Card Details Not Valid: The card number, expiration date, or CVV is not correct. Check to make sure all the information matches up with your credit or debit card. Card Type Not Supported: The e-Visa website processes the  most popular cards, such as Visa and Mastercard, but not certain prepaid or virtual cards. Use a plain credit/debit card. Not Enough Money: You must have at least $20 plus any bank fees (processing fees) in your account at the time of the payment. Bank Limitations: There are banks that see international transactions as sketchy. Let your bank know that you are travelling to Ethiopia before you go. Technical Problems: The Ethiopian e-Visa site might be slow due to a high number of visits. Slowness or incompatibility with the internet (e.g., outdated browsers) can also be a cause. Not Eligible for e-Visa: Citizens of some countries are not eligible to apply for an Ethiopian e-Visa and must apply through the embassy, resulting in online application or payment failure. Resolutions to Resolve the Visa Payment Problem Cross-Check Card Information: Check that you have entered the card number, expiry date, CVV, and billing address accurately. Provide a card in your name to prevent any mismatches. Use a Different Card: If one card does not work, try another Visa or Mastercard that has enough money. Avoid prepaid cards. Call Your Bank: Make sure it’s okay to use your card for international purchases. Ask them to approve the transaction if it is stopped. Clear Browser Cache: Use the latest version of the browser (Chrome/Firefox) and clear cookies/cache to avoid technical errors. Make sure that you have an uninterrupted internet connection. Try Again Later: Should the e-Visa site be offline, give it a few hours and retry. Submit at least 3-5 days in advance of travel to prevent a delay. Embassy Application: Non-e-Visa-eligible travelers must apply through the nearest Ethiopian embassy. These practical tips help travelers overcome common Ethiopian visa payment issues and ensure a smoother application process.

Ethiopia is a country of many people, with more than 80 languages used in its different regions. For tourists, the ability to communicate in the most commonly used language is essential to get the most out of their travel and get around. Here are Ethiopia’s 3 major languages and their importance to visitors. 1. Amharic (አማርኛ) – The National Language Amharic is the official working language of the Ethiopian federal government and is widely spoken across major cities like Addis Ababa. It uses the Ge’ez script and is used in government, media, and public services. Where spoken: Nationwide, especially in urban areas (Addis Ababa, Gondar, Bahir Dar) and central regions Cultural Note: Amharic uses the Ge’ez script, unique to Ethiopia, which you’ll see in churches and historical sites like Aksum. Useful for travelers: Government signs, menus, and transport announcements are often in Amharic. Basic phrases like "Selam" (Hello) and "Ameseginalehu" (Thank you) go a long way. 2. Oromo (Afaan Oromoo) — Most widely spoken Native language Ethiopia's most widely spoken language of native speakers is Oromo. It is the first language of the Oromo people, the country’s largest ethnic group. Oromo is the first language of more than 35 percent of Ethiopians. Spoken: Oromia region (Adama, Jimma, Arsi), parts of the south and west Useful for travelers: Useful when you are visiting the backcountry out of Addis, making a cultural visit or travelling by national park (Bale Mountains, Awash), or rural Oromia. Key phrase: "Akkam?" (How are you?) 3. Tigrinya – commonly spoken in the north Tigrinya, spoken by approximately 7% of the country’s population (around 8 million), is mainly found in the Tigray region and along the Eritrean border. It’s also spoken by the Tigray ethnic group in both the north’s urban and rural areas. Spoken: Tigray region and northern Ethiopia Useful for travelers: Crucial for anyone visiting northern Ethiopia, especially the Tigray region and heritage sites like Aksum. Note: Lalibela is in Amhara, where Amharic is dominant. Simple sentences such as “Kemey” (how are you) can warm the heart. Other Information for Travelers Aside from these three, there are other very important languages in Ethiopia, such as Somali, Sidamo, Wolaytta, and Afar, that also shape the colourful culture of the country. English is widely taught in schools and used in higher education, making it a useful language for international visitors. The official and top three spoken languages in Ethiopia — Amharic, Oromo, and Tigrinya —matter because they speak to the country’s ethnic diversity and regional identities. Knowing a few phrases enhances your experience and can make you connect more easily with the locals.

Yes, Addis Ababa is safe for tourists. Other than that, we hear in the media that Addis Ababa is pretty safe to travel, especially the popular areas, such as Bole, Piazza, and Meskel Square. The city is safe, and most visitors have a safe journey. But like in any big city, you should be on your guard and take some common-sense measures. Is Addis Ababa Safe for Foreign Tourists? White travellers are generally safe in Addis Ababa but tend to stick out a bit more than the average Addis Ababian. That can be a recipe for easy theft or scams. To minimize risk: Don’t brandish belongings like this openly Avoid crowded areas. Keep vigilant when you are in a crowd. Don’t walk alone at night, especially in more unsafe areas such as parts of Merkato or Bole. Take a reputable taxi or use the “Ride” or “Feres” app after dark Is Addis Ababa Safe at Night? Safety in Addis Ababa during nighttime is moderate, and extra caution is advised: Well-lit and busy streets with police presence are generally safer The risk of petty crime, such as pickpocketing, bag snatching, and mugging, is among the highest in the evenings and, especially, at night. Avoid walking alone at night, especially around less-patrolled parts of Merkato or Bole. Use safe transport — don’t walk or travel on local buses at night Is It Safe for Women to Travel to Addis Ababa Alone? Addis Ababa is relatively safe for solo female travelers, as long as you take sensible precautions. Although local people are usually polite, the following problems may affect women: Unwanted attention in public areas Risk of petty crime, especially when alone Tips include: Dress modestly Avoid walking alone at night Get recommended or app-driven transportation to the hotel Stay at highly rated female-friendly places to stay Is Addis Ababa Safe for Tourists Today – Safety Measures & Practical Tips Petty Crime Problem: Pickpocketing and bag snatching, particularly in crowded places such as Mercato, bus stations, and public transportation areas. Tip: Keep valuables out of sight or in a money belt.  Don't have unnecessary money or jewellery with you. Scams and Overcharging Issue: Tourists may be approached by unofficial guides or overcharged by taxi drivers Tip: Be polite but firm. Use ride-hailing apps like Ride or Feres for fair pricing. Book tours via hotels or licensed operators. Traffic and Roads Problem: Crowded streets and little/no pedestrian infrastructure. Tip: Mind the roads, they can be dangerous. Don’t trust that drivers will stop. Political Demonstrations Problem: Political demonstrations are infrequent, but when they do occur, they may lead to road closures or crowd congestion. Tip: Keep up to date through local news or your embassy. Don’t attend large protests or rallies. Nighttime Safety Problem: Night exposes certain regions to decreased safety. Tip: Don’t walk alone at night. Choose trustworthy modes of transportation instead. Health & Hygiene Problem: Tap water is not drinkable, and food hygiene is inconsistent. Tip: Drink bottled water, eat at popular and tidy food stands, and wash your hands frequently. Ask your doctor about travel vaccines. Conclusion You can safely travel to Addis Ababa with basic precautions. Whether solo, group, or first-time visitor, an informed and alert traveller is the happy one, and there’s nothing that will make a stay in Ethiopia’s vibrant capital all that much more enjoyable than it already was than by making sure you know what to watch for.

Yes, you can apply for Ethiopia e-visas on behalf of families or groups. This makes the visa application process more convenient when traveling with multiple people. However, there are important details to keep in mind: The Ethiopian e-visa system, managed by the Main Department for Immigration and Nationality Affairs, requires that every traveler, including children, have their own e-visa. There is no specific group or family application form that covers multiple people in a single submission. This means you will need to complete a separate application and pay the visa fee for each member of the group, including children. When applying, make sure to provide accurate personal information and travel details for each family member or group participant. It is also advisable to use the same email address and travel itinerary when applying, to keep all applications organized and consistent. While the visa fee may be paid together, each person will receive their own e-visa. How to Ethiopian e-visa for multiple applicants? Here’s how to proceed for families or groups: - Individual Applications: Each family member or group member needs to complete their own online application on the official Ethiopian e-visa website (www.evisa.gov.et) or through authorized platforms like Ethiopia Immigration Services. You’ll need to provide personal details, travel information, a scanned copy of the passport bio page, and a passport-sized photo for each person. Passports must be valid for at least six months from the intended entry date. - Supporting Documents: For children, you may need to upload additional documents, such as a birth certificate or proof of guardianship, especially if traveling without both parents. Ensure all documents are clear and meet the requirements outlined on the e-visa platform. - Payment: The visa fee must be paid separately for each application using a credit or debit card. The fee varies depending on the visa type and processing speed (standard, rush, or super rush). - Processing Time: Standard E-visa processing typically takes about 3 days, though it can be faster with expedited options. Each application is processed independently, but you can coordinate submissions to ensure approvals align for group travel. Once approved, each traveler receives their e-visa via email, which must be printed and presented upon arrival at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport. - Entry Requirements: All family or group members must enter Ethiopia through Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, as e-visas are not valid for entry at land borders or other ports. Ensure everyone has a yellow fever vaccination certificate if arriving from a listed risk country. Practical Tips To streamline the process, prepare all documents for the group in advance and submit applications close together to avoid discrepancies in approval times. If traveling with children, verify with your airline or the Ethiopian Embassy about any additional requirements, such as unabridged birth certificates or parental consent letters. While the system doesn’t offer a single “group visa,” the online process is straightforward and allows families or groups to apply efficiently by managing individual applications concurrently. Always double-check requirements on the official e-visa website or consult the Ethiopian Embassy for specific cases, as policies can vary based on nationality or travel purpose.

To apply for an Ethiopian eVisa, the passport requirements are straightforward but must be strictly followed to ensure a successful application. Passport Requirements for the Ethiopian eVisa To be eligible for an Ethiopian eVisa, your passport must meet the following requirements: 1. Passport Validity Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your intended date of entry into Ethiopia. Passports with less than six months of validity will result in the rejection of the eVisa application. 2. Blank Passport Pages Your passport must have at least one blank page for entry and exit stamps. Ethiopian immigration authorities require sufficient space for these stamps upon arrival and departure. If your passport is nearing its expiry date or lacks blank pages, renew it before applying for the eVisa to avoid complications. 3. Type of Passport The passport must be a machine-readable passport (with a machine-readable zone on the bio-data page) issued by an eligible country. Most standard passports meet this requirement. Temporary, emergency, or non-machine-readable passports may not be accepted for eVisa applications. Contact the Ethiopian Embassy if you hold such a document. 4. Scanned Bio Page During the eVisa application, you must upload a clear, colored scan of the passport’s biographical information page. The scanned copy must be legible, showing all details (full name, passport number, date of birth, issue/expiry dates, etc.) without glare, shadows, or cropping. Blurry or cropped images may result in delays or rejection. The file should be in JPEG or JPG format and typically under 2MB in size. 5. Eligibility by Nationality Ensure your nationality is eligible for the Ethiopian eVisa. Check your nationality HERE. 6. Consistency The passport used for the application must be the same one you carry when entering Ethiopia. If your passport is replaced or renewed after applying, the eVisa will no longer be valid, and you will need to apply again. Additional Notes Children’s Passports: Children, including infants, must have their own passports meeting the above requirements. They cannot be included on a parent’s passport for eVisa purposes. Damaged Passports: Ethiopia may deny entry if your passport is damaged (e.g., torn pages, missing cover, unreadable data). Replace a damaged passport before applying. Dual Nationals & Multiple Passports: If you hold multiple passports, you must apply for the eVisa using the same passport you will travel with, as the visa cannot be transferred to a different passport. Verify Passport Details: Ensure that all passport details entered in the eVisa application (e.g., full name as it appears on the bio-data page, including any middle names, passport number, expiry date) match the passport exactly. Even minor errors can lead to delays or entry denial. Entry Point: The eVisa is valid only for entry through Addis Ababa Bole International Airport. Ensure your passport is presented with the printed eVisa upon arrival. Always verify the latest requirements on the official Ethiopian eVisa portal before applying.