Ethiopia entry requirements for New Zealand passport holders
Checked daily · Updated May 17, 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
New Zealand passport holders can get a visa on arrival at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport and other official entry points in Ethiopia. This is the simplest option for most short visits — no need to apply in advance. As of 2026, the process is straightforward but requires a few documents ready at the counter.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| eVisa application Visa on arrival | Apply for an Ethiopian eVisa at the official portal before travel. The eVisa is valid for tourism and business visits, single entry up to 30 days. Processing takes 3 working days — apply at least a week before your flight.Apply for eVisa | Required |
| Valid passport Original passport | Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date from Ethiopia. It must have at least two blank pages for the visa and entry stamps. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Proof of onward travel | Immigration officers at Addis Ababa Bole Airport routinely ask for a printed or digital onward ticket. Have a copy of your return flight or a ticket to your next destination ready. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel booking or host invitation | Have a printed hotel reservation or a letter of invitation from your host in Ethiopia. Officers may ask for it if you look unsure about where you're staying. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Bank statement or cash | Carry at least $200 USD in cash or a recent bank statement showing sufficient funds. Immigration rarely checks this for short visits, but it helps if questioned. | Recommended |
Cash only at visa counter
The visa on arrival fee must be paid in US dollars cash. No cards, no Ethiopian birr, no other currencies. Bring crisp, undamaged notes — old or torn bills may be refused.
Visa on arrival is not extendable
If you think you might need more than 30 days, consider applying for a different visa type before you travel. Overstaying can result in fines or difficulties at departure.
What happens at the border
1
Arrive at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport
After landing, follow signs to 'Visa on Arrival' or 'Immigration'. There's a dedicated counter before the main immigration booths. Join the queue — it can take 20–40 minutes during peak hours.
2
Fill out the visa application form
You'll be given a short form at the counter. Fill in your passport details, flight info, and accommodation address. Keep it simple — no need for a detailed itinerary.
3
Submit documents and pay the fee
Hand over your passport, completed form, and cash (USD). The officer will process the visa and affix it to a blank page. You'll get a receipt — keep it with your passport.
4
Proceed to immigration
With the visa sticker in your passport, join the main immigration queue. The officer will stamp you in. That's it — you're in Ethiopia.
Download Ethiopia Entry Checklist
PDF · New Zealand Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated May 17, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Tourist Visa (single entry)
Max stay30 days, extendable 30 days
Validity3 months from issue date
Cost$50 USD (approx. $50 USD)
Apply at Ethiopian embassy or online via eVisa system before travel.
Tourist Visa (multiple entry)
Max stay90 days total, up to 30 days per visit
Validity6 months from issue date
Cost$100 USD (approx. $100 USD)
Available for frequent travellers; apply at embassy.
work visa
Work Permit Visa
1 year, renewable annually
~$200 USD (approx. $200 USD) plus processing fees
For foreign nationals employed by a registered Ethiopian company. Requires employer sponsorship and approval from the Ministry of Labour.
student visa
Student Visa
Duration of study program, renewable
~$100 USD (approx. $100 USD) plus university fees
For those enrolled in accredited Ethiopian educational institutions. Requires acceptance letter and proof of financial support.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Visa on Arrival (single entry)Payable in USD or Ethiopian Birr at the airport upon arrival. | $50 USD (approx. $50 USD) |
| Overstay fine per dayCharged for each day over the permitted stay; no maximum cap specified. | $20 USD per day (approx. $20 USD) |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Incomplete documents20%
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
New Zealand passport holders transiting through Ethiopia do not require a visa if staying airside and not passing through immigration.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Transit hubsBole International Airport (ADD)
Health & vaccines for Ethiopia
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired if arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidEssentialRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio)RecommendedHepatitis BRecommendedRabiesConsider
Health risks
MalariaHigh risk
Present throughout the country, especially in lowland areas below 2,000 meters.
Dengue FeverModerate risk
Occurs in urban and rural areas, especially during rainy seasons.
Altitude SicknessModerate risk
Risk in high-altitude areas like Addis Ababa (2,355m) and the Simien Mountains.
Malaria risk: high
Prophylaxis recommended for all travellers, especially in lowland areas. Use mosquito repellent and nets.
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
Bole Road, near Bole International Airport
Mon–Fri 08:30–17:00
For visa extensions and re-entry permits; bring passport, photos, and fee.
Addis Ababa
Immigration Office (Downtown)
Churchill Avenue, near Meskel Square
Mon–Fri 08:30–17:00
Alternative location for visa services; may have shorter queues.
Practical information for NZ 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 = 156.04 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
Typically between $50 and $70 USD, depending on the length of stay (usually 30 days). Pay in cash — USD only. No credit cards or other currencies accepted.
No — the visa on arrival is not extendable. If you need to stay longer, you'll have to leave and re-enter, or apply for a different visa type before travel.
Visa on arrival is available at most official land border crossings, but the process can be slower and less consistent. The airport is the most reliable place to get it. If crossing by land, carry extra USD and patience.
Yes, if you're arriving from a country with yellow fever risk. New Zealand is not a risk country, but if you've recently travelled to one, you'll need the vaccine certificate. Otherwise, it's not required for direct entry from NZ.
Yes, Ethiopia offers an e-visa for some nationalities, but New Zealand passport holders are not currently eligible. The visa on arrival is your only option for short visits.
You will likely be denied boarding by your airline or refused entry at immigration. Renew your passport before travelling — no exceptions.
Not officially, but it's strongly recommended. Medical care in Ethiopia can be expensive and cash-only. Some airlines may ask for proof of insurance at check-in.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on May 17, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.