Ethiopia entry requirements for Malaysia passport holders
Updated weekly · Last reviewed August 5, 2026·View sources
Visa on arrival
Max stay
No fixed limit
Passport validity
6 months
Beyond entry date
Return ticket
Required
Or onward travel proof
Proof of funds
Recommended
May be checked
Malaysian passport holders need an eVisa to enter Ethiopia for tourism or business. The online application is straightforward, and you'll get approval before you fly. As of 2026, the eVisa is the standard way to enter for short stays.
Apply for Ethiopia eVisaOfficial portal: Ethiopia eVisa Portal
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Visa on ArrivalYou can get a visa when you land in Ethiopia, but applying online beforehand is also an option. Available for Malaysian citizens | Malaysian passport holders can obtain a visa on arrival at Ethiopian points of entry. No prior application is required, but you may also apply for an e-visa in advance via the official Ethiopian e-visa portal if you prefer to save time at the airport. | Required |
| Passport validityMake sure your passport doesn't expire within 6 months of your arrival date. At least 6 months | Your Malaysian passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended date of entry into Ethiopia. | Required |
| Blank passport pagesThe immigration officer will need a clean page to stamp your visa. At least 1 blank page | Your passport must have at least one blank page for the visa stamp upon arrival. | Required |
| Return or onward ticketHaving a ticket out of Ethiopia can help avoid questions at the border. May be requested | Although not explicitly required, immigration officials may ask for proof of a return or onward ticket. It is strongly recommended to have one ready. | Recommended |
| Proof of fundsIt's wise to have some financial proof in case you're asked. May be requested | While not officially listed as a requirement, you may be asked to show evidence of sufficient funds for your stay. Carry cash or bank statements as a precaution. | Recommended |
| Arrival declarationYou don't need to fill out any online arrival form before you travel. Not required | No arrival declaration form is required for Ethiopia. | Not required |
| E-visa application (optional)If you prefer to have your visa sorted before you fly, you can apply online. Alternative to visa on arrival | You may apply for an e-visa in advance through the official Ethiopian e-visa website. This is optional but can streamline your entry process. | Optional |
Apply early — don't wait until the last minute
eVisa processing can take up to 3 business days. If you apply too close to your departure, you risk not getting approval in time. Apply at least a week before your flight.
eVisa only valid for Addis Ababa airport
The eVisa is only accepted at Bole International Airport. If you plan to enter Ethiopia by land from a neighbouring country, you must get a visa from an Ethiopian embassy beforehand.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for the eVisa online
Go to the official Ethiopian eVisa website (evisa.gov.et). Fill in your personal and passport details, upload a passport photo, and pay the fee. Processing usually takes 1-3 business days. You'll receive the approval by email.
2
Print or save your eVisa approval
Once approved, print a copy of the eVisa or save it on your phone. You'll need to show it at check-in and upon arrival in Ethiopia.
3
Prepare your documents for departure
At the airport in Malaysia, the airline will check your eVisa, passport validity, and return ticket. Have them ready in your hand luggage.
4
Arrive at Bole International Airport (Addis Ababa)
After landing, follow signs to immigration. Join the queue for eVisa holders. Present your passport, eVisa approval, and return ticket. The officer will stamp your passport and let you through.
5
Collect your luggage and exit
After immigration, pick up your bags from the carousel and proceed through customs. If you have nothing to declare, use the green channel.
Download Ethiopia Entry Checklist
PDF · Malaysia Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated August 5, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Business eVisa (single entry, 30 days)
Max stay30 days
Validity90 days from issue
Cost$82
Requires invitation letter from Ethiopian company.
Business eVisa (single entry, 90 days)
Max stay90 days
Validity90 days from issue
Cost$102
Requires invitation letter and possibly additional documentation.
Multiple entry eVisa (90 days)
Max stay90 days total
Validity90 days from issue
Cost$152
For frequent travelers; must apply online.
work visa
Ethiopia Work Permit (Employment Visa)
1 year, renewable
~$200 USD (approx. MYR 850) plus processing fees
For foreign nationals employed by an Ethiopian company. Requires employer sponsorship and Ministry of Labor approval. Allows long-term stay and multiple entries.
investor visa
Ethiopia Investor Visa
Up to 5 years, renewable
~$500 USD (approx. MYR 2,120) plus investment proof
For individuals investing at least $200,000 USD in Ethiopia. Includes residency rights and business operation privileges. Requires Ethiopian Investment Commission approval.
student visa
Ethiopia Student Visa
Duration of studies, renewable annually
~$100 USD (approx. MYR 425) per year
For enrolled students at recognized Ethiopian institutions. Requires admission letter and proof of financial support. Allows part-time work with permission.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| eVisa (single entry, 30 days)Standard tourist eVisa; apply online before travel. | $52 |
| eVisa (single entry, 90 days)For longer tourist stays; apply online. | $72 |
| Visa on arrival (if eligible)Only at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport; not guaranteed for all nationalities. | $50 (approx.) |
| Visa extension (per month)Apply at the Immigration Office in Addis Ababa; max extension up to 3 months. | $30 (approx.) |
| Exit feeNo separate exit fee for most travelers; check with airline. | Included in airfare |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds proof30%
No return ticket25%
Incomplete eVisa application20%
Approval probability calculator
Answer 6 quick questions — we'll estimate how likely you are to be approved for entry based on typical immigration patterns.
Transiting through Ethiopia
No transit visa needed
Malaysian passport holders transiting through Addis Ababa Bole International Airport do not need a visa if staying airside and continuing within 24 hours.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Exceptions & conditions
- If you need to leave the airport or stay overnight, you must obtain an eVisa or visa on arrival.
Transit hubsAddis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD)
Health & vaccines for Ethiopia
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired if arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission (e.g., parts of Africa or South America).
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidEssentialHepatitis BRecommendedRabiesConsiderMeningococcal MeningitisRecommendedCholeraConsider
Health risks
MalariaHigh risk
Present throughout the country, especially in lowland areas below 2,000 meters. Prophylaxis recommended.
Dengue FeverModerate risk
Occurs in urban and rural areas, especially during rainy seasons. Use mosquito repellent.
Altitude SicknessModerate risk
Addis Ababa is at 2,355 meters; symptoms can occur. Acclimatize gradually and stay hydrated.
Malaria risk: high
Malaria is present in all regions below 2,000 meters, including Addis Ababa (though risk is lower). Prophylaxis (e.g., atovaquone-proguanil or doxycycline) is recommended for most travellers.
Based on CDC and WHO guidance. Consult a travel medicine clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalised advice.
Immigration offices for extensions
Addis Ababa
Main Immigration Office (Headquarters)
Bole Road, near Bole International Airport, Addis Ababa
Mon–Fri 08:00–17:00
For visa extensions and overstay payments. Bring passport, eVisa printout, and proof of funds.
Addis Ababa
Bole International Airport Immigration Desk
Bole International Airport, Arrivals Hall
24/7
For entry/exit issues and emergency visa assistance.
Practical information for MY travellers
Country basics
CapitalAddis Ababa
LanguageAmharic
Driving sideRight-hand traffic
US driving licenceUS visitors can drive with a valid US license for up to 90 days, but an International Driving Permit is recommended.
Money
CurrencyEthiopian birr (ETB)
Exchange rate
1 USD = 159.48 ETB
Time zone
Local timeUTC+3
vs New York+8h
vs Los Angeles+11h
Electricity
Voltage220V / 50Hz
Plug types
C,FType C (two round pins) and Type F (two round pins with grounding clips)
⚠ US adapter needed
Water & health
Tap water
Not safe — use bottled
Tap water is not safe to drink; use bottled or boiled water.
Emergency numbers
Frequently asked questions
Processing usually takes 1 to 3 business days. Apply at least a week before your flight to be safe. You'll receive the approval by email.
The eVisa fee varies by nationality and visa type. For Malaysian passport holders, the tourist eVisa typically costs around $52 USD. Check the official website for the exact amount.
No, the eVisa is not extendable. If you need to stay longer, you must leave and reapply, or apply for a different visa type before travel.
If you're transiting through Addis Ababa and staying airside (not passing immigration), you generally don't need a visa. But if you plan to leave the airport, you need the eVisa.
You will likely be denied boarding by your airline. Ethiopia does not offer visa on arrival for Malaysian passport holders. You must have the eVisa before you fly.
No, the eVisa is only valid for entry at Bole International Airport in Addis Ababa. If you plan to enter by land, you need a different visa from an Ethiopian embassy.
Yes, immigration officers may ask to see your return or onward ticket. Have a printed copy or screenshot ready on your phone.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on August 5, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.