AfrikaEthiopia
Learn about the Ethiopia e-Visa application process, updated 2026 document lists, and types of tourist and business visas. Steps and key considerations for your application.
General Information on the Ethiopia Visa (2026)
Ethiopia is one of Africa's most fascinating destinations, with its rich history and natural beauty. Citizens of the Republic of Turkey holding Ordinary (Maroon) Passports are required to obtain a visa before traveling to Ethiopia. Holders of Diplomatic, Service, and Special Passports are exempt from visas for stays of up to 90 days. Ethiopia has significantly digitized its visa application process, offering great convenience to applicants through its online e-Visa system.
Types of Ethiopia Visas
There are different types of visas depending on the purpose of travel to Ethiopia. Applications from Turkey are generally for tourism or business purposes, and these visas can be obtained through the e-Visa system.
- Tourist E-Visa: Issued for travel purposes such as holidays, cultural trips, or visiting friends/relatives. It is usually granted as a 1-month or 3-month single-entry Ethiopia e-visa. Different validity options are offered based on the requested length of stay during the application.
- Business E-Visa: Required for professional purposes such as business meetings, trade fair participation, conferences, or commercial negotiations. Documents from the inviting company in Ethiopia are crucial for this visa type.
How to Apply for an Ethiopia E-Visa? (evisa.gov.et)
The most practical way to get an Ethiopia visa is to apply through the official e-Visa portal. This process eliminates the need to visit an application center. The answer to how to get an Ethiopia visa is summarized in the steps below:
- Visit the Official Website: Start your application on the official e-Visa portal of the Ethiopian Immigration and Citizenship Service at www.evisa.gov.et.
- Fill Out the Application Form: Complete the online application form with your personal information, passport details, and travel itinerary accurately and completely.
- Upload Required Documents: Upload the required documents (passport, photo, etc.) digitally to the system in the specified format and size.
- Pay the Visa Fee: Securely pay the visa fee online with a credit or debit card to complete your application.
- Receive Your E-Visa: Once your application is approved, your e-Visa will be sent in PDF format to the email address you provided in the application form. You must print this document and keep it with you throughout your journey.
Required Documents
The documents required may vary depending on the type of visa being applied for. Below are the basic document lists for 2026.
Required Documents for Tourist E-Visa
- Passport: A clear, color scan of the personal information page of a passport valid for at least 6 months from the planned departure date from Ethiopia.
- Biometric Photograph: A digital copy of a biometric photograph taken within the last 6 months, with a white background, measuring 3.5x4.5 cm.
- Proof of Accommodation (Optional): In some cases, accommodation details such as a hotel reservation may be requested.
Ethiopia Business Visa Documents
In addition to the tourist visa documents above:
- Invitation Letter: An invitation letter written on the letterhead of the inviting company in Ethiopia, signed and stamped, stating the purpose of travel, dates, and how expenses will be covered.
- Letter of Employment: A letter from the applicant's company in Turkey, written on letterhead, stating their position, purpose of travel, and dates, and confirming that the company will cover the expenses.
Visa Fees and How Long Does the Ethiopia Visa Take?
Ethiopia visa fees vary depending on the type of visa (tourist, business) and the duration of stay (30 days or 90 days). The current and exact fees are specified on the official e-Visa portal during the application process. Payment is made online.
As for how many days it takes for an Ethiopia visa to be processed, e-Visa applications are generally processed very quickly. Under normal circumstances, applications are concluded within 1 to 3 business days. However, it should be noted that this period may be longer due to public holidays, system congestion, or requests for additional documents. Therefore, to avoid disruptions to your travel plans, it is advisable to submit your application at least 1-2 weeks before your travel date.
Ethiopia Visa Process with Hermes Vize
If you wish to facilitate your transactions and ensure an accurate application by receiving professional support at every step of the Ethiopia e-Visa process, you can benefit from the expertise of Hermes Vize. Our experienced team guides you through the entire process, from preparing your documents completely to ensuring your application is correctly submitted, saving you time. You can contact us for detailed information and consultancy services.