Ethiopian Passport Visa Free Countries (2025)

Ethiopian passport holders can travel to several countries without obtaining a visa prior to arrival. The exact number of visa-free destinations varies slightly between sources, ranging from 11 to 15 countries. This discrepancy may be due to differences in data collection dates or changes in visa policies.

Here is a list of countries that Ethiopian citizens can visit without a visa, along with the allowed duration of stay:

Country	Allowed Stay
Barbados	Up to 90 days
Benin	Up to 90 days
Cook Islands	Up to 31 days
Dominica	Up to 21 days
Gambia	Up to 90 days
Haiti	Up to 90 days
Micronesia	Up to 30 days
Philippines	Up to 30 days
Singapore	Up to 30 days
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines	Up to 90 days
Samoa	Up to 90 days

Please note that visa-free access does not guarantee entry, as admission is at the discretion of immigration authorities upon arrival. Additionally, the duration of stay and permissible activities (e.g., tourism, business) may vary by country. It’s advisable to check the specific entry requirements and stay durations for each destination before traveling.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, you can consult the Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the embassy or consulate of your destination country.

What Countries Do Ethiopian Citizens Need A Visa For?

Ethiopian citizens require a visa to enter approximately 154 countries. However, they enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to several destinations. The Ethiopian passport is ranked 178th globally in terms of travel freedom.

Visa-Free Countries:

Ethiopian passport holders can travel without a visa to the following countries:

Africa: Benin (90 days), Gambia (90 days), Kenya (3 months)
Asia: Philippines (30 days), Singapore (30 days)
Oceania: Micronesia (30 days), Samoa (90 days)
Americas: Barbados (90 days), Dominica (21 days), Haiti (3 months), Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (3 months)

Visa on Arrival:

Ethiopian citizens can obtain a visa upon arrival in the following countries:

Africa: Burundi (1 month), Comoros (45 days), Madagascar (90 days), Malawi, Mauritania, Mauritius (60 days), Mozambique (6 months), Rwanda (90 days), Seychelles (3 months), Somalia (30 days), Togo (15 days), Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe
Asia: Bangladesh (30 days), Cambodia (30 days), Laos (30 days), Maldives (30 days), Sri Lanka, Thailand (15 days), Timor-Leste (30 days)
Oceania: Palau (30 days), Tuvalu (1 month)
Americas: Bolivia (90 days), Nicaragua (30 days), Saint Lucia (6 weeks)

eVisa Required:

The following countries require Ethiopian nationals to apply for an electronic visa (eVisa) before traveling:

Africa: Djibouti, Gabon, Guinea, Lesotho, São Tomé and Príncipe, South Africa, South Sudan
Asia: Albania, Bahrain, Georgia, Indonesia, Iran, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Oman, Pakistan, Vietnam
Americas: Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Colombia, Ecuador, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Suriname
Oceania: Australia, New Zealand

Do Ethiopians Need Visa For America?

Yes, Ethiopian citizens need a visa to travel to the United States. They are required to apply for and obtain a visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate before traveling. The type of visa they need depends on the purpose of their visit, such as tourism, business, study, or immigration.

The most common visa categories include:

Nonimmigrant Visas:
- B1/B2 Visa: For business or tourism.
- F-1 Visa: For students attending academic institutions.
- J-1 Visa: For exchange programs.
- H-1B Visa: For skilled workers.
Immigrant Visas: For individuals seeking permanent residency in the U.S.

Applicants need to fill out the required application forms (like the DS-160 for nonimmigrant visas), pay the visa fee, attend an interview at the U.S. embassy, and provide supporting documents.

The U.S. embassy in Ethiopia is located in Addis Ababa. You can visit their official website for more detailed information and application instructions.

Do Ethiopians Need Visa For Europe?

Yes, Ethiopian citizens are required to obtain a visa to travel to European countries within the Schengen Area. The Schengen Area comprises 27 European countries that have abolished internal borders, allowing for free and unrestricted movement of people. To visit these countries, Ethiopian nationals must apply for a Schengen visa prior to their trip.

In 2024, the Council of the European Union implemented temporary restrictions on visa provisions for Ethiopian nationals due to concerns over Ethiopia’s cooperation in readmitting its nationals staying irregularly in the EU. As a result, Ethiopian applicants are now issued single-entry visas only, are required to submit all necessary supporting documents without exemptions, and diplomatic and service passport holders must pay the visa fee. Additionally, the standard visa processing period for Ethiopian applicants has been extended to 45 calendar days.

It’s important to note that the Schengen visa allows for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism, business, or family visits. For longer stays or purposes such as work or study, a national visa specific to the destination country is required. Each Schengen country may have specific requirements and procedures, so it’s advisable to consult the embassy or consulate of the country you plan to visit for detailed information on the application process.

Additionally, starting from mid-2025, nationals from visa-exempt countries will need to obtain an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) travel authorization to enter Schengen countries. However, since Ethiopian citizens require a visa, ETIAS does not apply to them.

In summary, Ethiopian citizens planning to travel to Europe should apply for the appropriate visa well in advance of their intended travel dates, considering the extended processing times and the specific requirements of the destination country.

Countries That Gives Visa On Arrival For Ethiopian Passport Holders?

Ethiopian passport holders can obtain a visa on arrival in several countries across different continents. Here are some notable destinations:

Africa:

Somalia: Visa on arrival for 1 month.
Rwanda: Visa on arrival for 3 months.
Burundi: Visa on arrival for 1 month.
Comoros: Visa on arrival for 6 weeks.
Zimbabwe: Visa on arrival for 3 months.
Mauritius: Visa on arrival for 2 months.

Asia:

Maldives: Visa on arrival for 1 month.
Sri Lanka: Visa on arrival for 1 month.
Laos: Visa on arrival for 1 month.
Cambodia: Visa on arrival for 1 month.

Oceania:

Palau: Visa on arrival.
Tuvalu: Visa on arrival.
Samoa: Visa on arrival.

North America:

Saint Lucia: Visa on arrival.

Please note that visa policies can change, and it’s advisable to check the latest information from official sources or the embassy of the destination country before traveling.

Traveling To UK For Ethiopian Passport Holders?

Traveling to the United Kingdom (UK) as an Ethiopian passport holder requires careful planning and preparation, especially when it comes to obtaining the appropriate visa. The UK offers various visa categories depending on the purpose of your visit, such as tourism, business, study, or family visits.

Ethiopian passport holders require a visa to enter the UK. The most common visa types include:

Standard Visitor Visa: For tourism, business meetings, or short-term courses.
Student Visa: For those pursuing education in the UK for more than six months.
Work Visa: For employment opportunities in the UK, such as Skilled Worker Visas.
Family or Partner Visa: For visiting or joining family members already in the UK.

Each visa type has specific requirements, so it’s crucial to determine the most suitable category for your trip.

2. Application Process

The UK visa application process involves the following steps:

Online Application:
- Visit the official UK Government Visas and Immigration website.
- Complete the visa application form relevant to your purpose of travel.
Pay the Visa Fee:
- Fees vary depending on the visa type. For instance, the Standard Visitor Visa typically costs £100 for a six-month visa.
Book an Appointment:
- Schedule an appointment at the nearest UK Visa Application Centre (VAC). In Ethiopia, this center is located in Addis Ababa.
Prepare Supporting Documents: Key documents include:
- A valid Ethiopian passport (with at least six months of validity).
- A recent passport-sized photograph.
- Proof of financial means (e.g., bank statements, employment letter).
- Travel itinerary, including flight bookings and accommodation details.
- Invitation letter (if applicable) from a UK resident or organization.
Attend the Appointment:
- Provide biometric information (fingerprints and photograph) at the VAC.
- Submit your supporting documents.
Decision Waiting Time:
- Most applications are processed within 15 working days, though expedited services are available at an extra cost.

3. Financial Proof

To demonstrate that you can support yourself during your stay, you’ll need to show:

Sufficient funds in your bank account.
Proof of employment or other sources of income.
Evidence of prepaid travel and accommodation expenses.

4. Travel Insurance

While not mandatory, having travel insurance is highly recommended. It can cover unforeseen medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost luggage.

5. COVID-19 Regulations

Although restrictions have eased, it’s important to check the latest COVID-19 requirements before traveling, such as vaccination status or testing rules. Stay updated through the UK government website or the airline you are traveling with.

6. Entry Requirements

At the port of entry, you’ll need to present:

Your passport with a valid UK visa.
Any additional documents requested during your visa application process, such as return tickets or proof of accommodation.

Be prepared to answer questions about your trip, including your intended duration of stay, purpose of visit, and financial means.

7. Cultural Considerations

The UK has a diverse culture, and understanding local customs can enhance your experience. Ethiopians visiting the UK should be aware of:

The formal politeness often associated with British interactions.
The importance of punctuality for meetings or appointments.

8. Tips for a Smooth Trip

Plan Ahead: Apply for your visa well in advance to avoid delays.
Document Backup: Keep digital and physical copies of important documents.
Stay Connected: Have a working phone and internet access for navigation and communication.
Emergency Contacts: Familiarize yourself with the location of the Ethiopian Embassy in London.

Conclusion

Traveling as an Ethiopian passport holder is easier with proper preparation. Understanding visa requirements, gathering the necessary documents, and adhering to the rules and guidelines will help ensure a smooth journey and enjoyable experience.