If you're planning to transit through Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, it's essential to understand whether you need an Addis Ababa transit visa and how to obtain one. With Ethiopia serving as a key aviation hub in Africa, especially through Ethiopian Airlines, many travelers find themselves passing through Addis Ababa on their way to other destinations.
The good news? Ethiopia’s transit visa policy is straightforward when you prepare ahead. This guide will walk you through everything — from visa requirements to the application process, exemptions, and more.
Do You Need a Transit Visa for Addis Ababa?
No Transit Visa Required If:
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You stay within the airport’s transit area for less than 12 hours.
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You are a citizen of Kenya or Djibouti, who are visa-exempt for Ethiopia.
Transit Visa Required If:
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Your layover exceeds 12 hours.
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You plan to leave the transit area (e.g., to visit Addis Ababa or stay in a hotel).
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You are doing a self-transfer, which may require collecting your checked luggage.
Special Cases:
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African Union nationals are eligible for a transit visa on arrival.
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Travelers flying Ethiopian Airlines may get assistance with visa processing for certain layovers.
Long-tail keyword tip: Wondering "Do I need a transit visa for Addis Ababa?" If your layover is short and you don’t exit the terminal, you’re likely exempt — but always check ahead.
Types of Transit Visas for Ethiopia
| Type | Duration | Purpose | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12-hour Visa | Up to 12 hrs | Short layovers without leaving airport | Most international travelers |
| 24-hour Visa | Up to 24 hrs | Exit airport for hotel, rest or city visit | Most travelers |
| 48–72-hour Visa | Up to 72 hrs | Longer transits with sightseeing intent | Requires onward ticket & funds |
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Transit visas are valid for a max of 72 hours. Beyond that, apply for a tourist visa or visa on arrival.
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Transit visas allow limited movement — usually to a designated hotel or for brief city tours.
Transit visa requirements Ethiopia tip: If your transit exceeds 24–48 hours, confirm hotel bookings and city access guidelines in advance.
How to Get a Transit Visa for Ethiopia
1. On Arrival at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport
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Go to the Immigration Desk after disembarking.
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Fill out a transit visa application form.
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Pay the visa fee (usually USD 20–50 depending on stay duration).
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Get your passport stamped and proceed.
2. Through an Ethiopian Embassy/Consulate
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Recommended for complex itineraries or restricted nationalities.
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Contact your nearest Ethiopian diplomatic mission and provide necessary documents.
3. Online Application (Limited Availability)
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While most transit visas are issued on arrival, some online options may emerge.
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Check the official portal: www.evisa.gov.et.
4. Ethiopian Airlines Facilitation
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For layovers 8–24 hours, Ethiopian Airlines offers a free hotel + transit visa package.
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Approach Ethiopian Airlines transit desk on arrival for assistance.
How to get a transit visa for Ethiopia tip: Arrive early, have your onward ticket and hotel info handy, and head straight to immigration.
Documents Required for a Transit Visa
Here’s your go-to checklist for smooth processing:
Mandatory Documents
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Passport valid for 6+ months
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Completed visa application form
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Onward flight ticket (departing within 72 hours)
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Proof of sufficient funds (optional but helpful)
Additional Documents
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Passport-size photo (for some embassies)
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Hotel booking or travel itinerary
Health & COVID-19 Requirements
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No COVID-19 test or vaccination proof is required for transit as of 2025.
Addis Ababa airport visa hack: Carry both digital and hard copies of all documents for faster processing.
Transit Visa Fees and Processing Time
| Transit Visa Type | Fee (USD) | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| 12-hour | ~$20 | Immediate at airport |
| 24-hour | ~$30 | Immediate at airport |
| 48-hour | ~$40 | Immediate at airport |
| 72-hour | ~$50 | Immediate or 1 day at embassy |
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Payments are accepted in USD or Ethiopian Birr (ETB).
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Embassy applications may take 3–5 business days, so plan ahead.
Final Tips for Your Transit Through Addis Ababa
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Know your layover length and plan accordingly.
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If you want to explore Addis Ababa during your layover, a transit visa is a must.
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Use Ethiopian Airlines' transit hotel service if you're eligible — it's a game-changer.
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Keep an eye on evisa.gov.et for any updates to visa options or policies.
Ready for your smooth layover in Addis Ababa?
With the right information and preparation, transiting through Ethiopia can be both hassle-free and enjoyable. Safe travels!
