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Ethiopia Visa for South Africa Citizens 2026

Visa on Arrival

South African citizens can get a visa on arrival at Addis Ababa's Bole International Airport, or apply for an e-Visa in advance — fee USD 52, valid for a single entry of up to 30 days.

Guide last updated October 21, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond arrival date
  • Return or onward flight ticket
  • Proof of accommodation
  • Sufficient funds for your stay
  • Passport-style photo (for the e-Visa option)
  • Yellow fever vaccination certificate may be requested depending on travel history

Visa types

  • Tourist visa on arrival / e-Visa: single entry, 30 days, fee USD 52
  • Tourist e-Visa, multiple entry: 30 days validity, fee USD 72
  • Business visa: requires an invitation letter, arranged via e-Visa or embassy

Visa on arrival

  • Available at Bole International Airport, Addis Ababa
  • Proceed to the visa counter before immigration passport control
  • Pay the USD 52 fee by card or cash (USD preferred)
  • Complete a short arrival form and have your photo taken
  • Queues can build up around peak arrival times for connecting Ethiopian Airlines flights — allow extra time

Fees & processing time

  • Visa on arrival / single-entry e-Visa fee: USD 52
  • Multiple-entry e-Visa fee: USD 72
  • No additional service fee when paid directly at the airport counter
  • Total estimated cost: USD 52-72
  • e-Visa applications submitted online are typically approved within 1-3 business days

Tips for South African travelers

  • Applying for the e-Visa online before departure avoids the arrival queue and is recommended, especially for connecting passengers
  • Carry small USD notes in case the card machine at the airport counter is down
  • Common rejection reasons for the e-Visa: blurry photo upload, passport details not matching the booking
  • Addis Ababa is a major transit hub for onward African travel — double check whether your layover requires this visa or qualifies for transit-only passage
  • Extensions can be arranged at the Ethiopian Immigration and Citizenship Service office in Addis Ababa

Official links & resources

Always confirm requirements with government or embassy sources before applying.

This guide is for information only. Visa policies change without notice. Travel Visa Stack is not an immigration authority. Always verify with official government or embassy sources before making travel plans.