Ethiopia e-Visa for Minors: Guide for Parents and Families

Planning a family trip to Ethiopia and wondering whether your child needs a visa? The good news is that minors can apply for the Ethiopia e-Visa, and the process is simple when you know the requirements. Whether you’re traveling with an infant, toddler, or teenager, this guide explains everything parents need to prepare before entering Ethiopia.

Do Minors Need an Ethiopian e-Visa?

Under current Ethiopian immigration rules, all travelers — including infants and minors — are required to hold their own passport and individual e-Visa. Each child must have:

• Their own passport
• Their own approved e-Visa

This rule applies to:

• Family vacations
• Transit through Ethiopia
• Visiting relatives

Do Babies Need an Ethiopian e-Visa?

Yes. Even newborns require an individual e-Visa. Parents should apply:

• Using the baby’s own passport
• With a simple passport-style photo (infant photos are accepted even if imperfect)

Parents need to prepare the Ethiopia e-Visa documents for a child for a smooth trip

Ethiopia e-Visa Types Available for Minors

Children can apply for the same e-Visa categories as adults:

1. 30-Day Single Entry e-Visa
Best for short family trips and vacations.

2. 90-Day Single Entry e-Visa
Suitable for longer stays, extended visits, or staying with relatives.

3. Transit e-Visa (12, 24, or 72 hours)
For children transiting through Addis Ababa Bole International Airport.

Passport Requirements for Minors

To apply for the Ethiopian e-Visa, a child must have:

• A valid passport with at least 6 months remaining from the date of arrival
• At least one blank page for entry stamps
• A recent passport-style photograph

Note: Babies and toddlers must also have individual passports. Family passports are not accepted.

Ethiopia e-Visa Requirements for Minors

Here are the required documents to apply for a child’s e-Visa:

1. Passport Scan of the Child
The biographical page shows name, date of birth, and passport number.

2. Passport Photo
A clear photo with:

• White background
• Neutral expression
• Full face visible

3. Proof of Travel
An airline ticket or itinerary may be required.

4. Consent Documents (If Applicable)
If the child is traveling with only one parent or with another guardian, immigration may request:

• Notarized parental consent letter
• Copy of both parents’ passports or IDs
• This is a standard child-protection measure in many countries.

How to Apply for an Ethiopian e-Visa for a Child

The application process for minors is the same as for adults:

Step 1: Visit the Ethiopian Immigration Services website.

Step 2: Start a New Application
Choose the visa type (30-day, 90-day, or Transit).

Step 3: Fill in the Child’s Information
Enter the child’s passport details and personal data.

Step 4: Upload Required Documents

• Passport photo
• Passport scan
• Optional consent documents (if necessary)

Step 5: Pay the Visa Fee Online
Fees are the same for adults and children.

Step 6: Receive the e-Visa by EmailProcessing usually takes around 3–5 working days. In some cases, faster processing may be available, depending on current immigration policies.

Print a copy to present at immigration upon arrival.

Note that:

• Processing time: Applications are usually processed quickly, but families should apply at least a few weeks before travel.
• Ethiopia visa fees for minors are the same as adult fees. Payment is made online using a card. You can visit the VISA FEE for more details.

If your child is traveling alone or with only one parent or legal guardian, they may need a letter of consent from the other custodial parent.

Special Documentation for Minors Traveling to Ethiopia

Beyond the e-visa, families traveling with minors to Ethiopia should prepare additional documentation to avoid complications at immigration:

For Minors Traveling with Both Parents

• Valid passports for all family members
• Approved e-visas for each person
• Birth certificate or family book showing parental relationship (recommended)
• Travel itinerary

For Minors Traveling with One Parent

A single parent can travel with a child. However, it is highly recommended to carry:

• A notarized consent letter from the non-traveling parent
• Birth certificate showing parental relationship
• Copies of both parents’ passports

Ethiopian immigration officers may request these documents to:

• Prevent child trafficking
• Verify guardianship
• Confirm travel permission

Travelers should prepare these documents in advance, especially for shared-custody situations.

For Minors Traveling with Guardians or Relatives

Children traveling without parents require:

• Notarized letter of authorization from both parents permitting the child to travel with the specified adult
• Copies of both parents' passports or identification documents
• Birth certificate
• Contact information for parents

For Unaccompanied Minors

Ethiopia's immigration policies regarding unaccompanied minors can be strict. If a child must travel alone:

• Contact the airline in advance, as most require unaccompanied minor services for children under 12-15 years old
• Arrange for a designated guardian to meet the child at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport
• Carry comprehensive authorization letters from parents or legal guardians
• Consider consulting with Ethiopian authorities or your embassy before travel

Understanding Ethiopia visa requirements for unaccompanied minors will help you prepare fully documented.

Arrival in Ethiopia With a Minor: What to Expect

When arriving at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, families should prepare:

• Documents to present
• Printed child’s e-Visa
• Child’s passport
• Family travel documents
• Consent letter if one parent is absent

Immigration officers may ask simple questions about:

• Relationship to the child
• Purpose of visit
• Length of stay
• Families with all proper documents usually pass through quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I apply for an Ethiopian e-Visa for my child online?
Yes. The Ethiopian e-Visa platform accepts applications for minors and infants.

2. Do children pay the same visa fee as adults?
Yes. Fees are identical for all age groups.

3. Can a grandparent or guardian bring a child to Ethiopia?
Yes, but they must carry a parental consent letter and proof of legal guardianship.

4. What if my child is listed on my passport?
Ethiopia only accepts individual passports; no option to add dependents. Separate applications are mandatory.

5. How early should I apply for my child’s e-Visa?
Apply at least 1–2 weeks before travel to avoid delays.

6.  What if I'm a single parent traveling?
Carry a notarized consent letter from the other parent OR legal documentation showing you have sole custody (like a court order). This is critical to avoid entry issues.

7.  Is the process the same for adopted children?
You must provide the adopted child's passport and the official adoption decree/certificate as proof of relationship.

Tips for Families Traveling to Ethiopia With Minors

Keep digital and printed copies of all documents.

Bring birth certificates if traveling with only one parent.

Check vaccination recommendations for children.

Prepare snacks and entertainment — Addis airport can be busy.

Expect occasional internet delays — download your e-Visas offline.

Conclusion: Ethiopia e-Visa for Minors Made Simple

Traveling to Ethiopia with children is straightforward when you understand the e-Visa requirements. Every minor needs their own passport and e-Visa, and families should carry consent letters when one parent or guardian is traveling alone.

With proper preparation, your family trip to Ethiopia will be smooth, safe, and memorable.