Ethiopia Passport Rules for UK Travellers
Quick answer: FCDO advises against travel to some parts of Ethiopia. Your passport must have an expiry date at least 6 months after the date you arrive in Ethiopia. Your passport must be machine-readable. You need a visa for tourism or business; GOV.UK recommends applying online before arrival.
Ethiopia travel requirements at a glance
6 months from arrival
Passport must be machine-readable
Needed: apply online before travel
Fined per day until paid
Official source: GOV.UK Ethiopia entry requirements.
Passport rules: quick summary
- Passport valid 6 months after arrival
- Passport must be machine-readable
- Visa required, apply online
- FCDO advises against travel to some areas
Passport validity for Ethiopia
GOV.UK says your passport must have an expiry date at least 6 months after the date you arrive in Ethiopia. You will be denied entry if your passport has been reported lost or stolen.
Check the expiry date against your arrival date, not just your return date, before you book.
Visas
You must have a visa to visit Ethiopia for tourism or business. GOV.UK recommends applying online before arrival. You can get a 30-day single entry tourist visa from the official Ethiopian e-visa platform.
You cannot work, including voluntary work, on a tourist visa. GOV.UK says the penalty for overstaying is 30 US dollars a day.
Health and customs
You need a yellow fever certificate if you're coming from a country listed as a transmission risk. Some travellers may need to complete a health declaration form.
It is illegal to bring in or take out satellite phones, binoculars or drones without prior approval. Khat cannot be taken out of the country.
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Frequently asked questions
Do I need 6 months on my passport for Ethiopia?
Yes. GOV.UK says your passport must have an expiry date at least 6 months after the date you arrive in Ethiopia.
Do I need a visa for Ethiopia?
Yes. You must have a visa to visit Ethiopia for tourism or business. GOV.UK recommends applying online before you arrive.
Does my passport need to be machine-readable for Ethiopia?
Yes. GOV.UK says your passport must be machine-readable as well as valid for at least 6 months after you arrive.