Last updated: 9 September 2026. This guide reflects current evisa.gov.et portal requirements as of that date.
The evisa ethiopia documents checklist for 2026 requires three core uploads: a valid passport scan, a passport-style photograph, and supporting files like flight itineraries. Every attachment must be under 2 MB in PNG, JPEG, or PDF format. Improperly formatted files remain the primary cause of application rejection.
Key documents required for an Ethiopia eVisa in 2026: a valid passport (at least 6 months validity from entry), a colour passport scan of the bio-data page (PDF or JPEG, ≤ 2 MB), and a passport-style photograph with a clear white background (PNG or JPEG, ≤ 2 MB, approx. 35 × 45 mm). Supporting documents including flight itinerary, hotel booking, and bank statement may also be required.
Ethiopia eVisa Document Requirements at a Glance
The evisa ethiopia documents checklist consolidates every mandatory file into a single reference table, specifying accepted formats and the strict ≤ 2 MB per-file size limit enforced by the evisa.gov.et portal.
| Document | Format | Max Size | Key Rule | Entry Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Passport (bio-data page scan) | PDF / JPEG | 2 MB | Valid ≥ 6 months from intended entry date | Single entry |
| Passport Photo | PNG / JPEG | 2 MB | Plain white background, square crop | Single entry |
| Flight Itinerary | 2 MB | Return / onward ticket required | Single entry | |
| Hotel Booking | 2 MB | Accommodation telephone number mandatory | Single entry | |
| Bank Statement | 2 MB | Last 3 months, proof of sufficient funds | Single entry |
Passport Scan Requirements: Validity, MRZ and Resolution
The evisa ethiopia documents checklist mandates that your passport remain valid for at least six months from your intended date of entry, and the uploaded scan must capture both Machine Readable Zone lines in full.
Check validity
Passport must be valid ≥ 6 months from entry date.
Scan the full bio-data page
Produce a colour scan of the entire biographical data page. Black-and-white copies are not accepted by the evisa.gov.et portal.
Include both MRZ lines
The two Machine Readable Zone lines at the bottom of the page must be fully visible. Cropping the MRZ causes automatic rejection.
Set minimum 300 DPI
Scan at 300 DPI or higher so all text, photo details, and the MRZ remain clear and readable. Avoid flash glare, fingers, or folds in the image.
Save in PDF or JPEG
Export the file as PDF or JPEG/JPG (PNG also accepted), keep it under 2 MB for your evisa ethiopia documents upload, and name it using the pattern Surname_Passport_2026.ext – no special characters, non-Latin script, or spaces.
Applicant Photograph: Dimensions, Background and Format
The evisa ethiopia documents checklist requires a formal passport-style colour photograph with a square crop on a plain white to light-grey background.
- Digital dimensions: approximately 600 × 600 px to 900 × 900 px (square crop)
- Print equivalent: 35 × 45 mm
- Aspect ratio: square (1:1) – never scale up a smaller image
- Background: plain white to light grey (hex #FFFFFF to #F0F0F0); no patterns, shadows, or colours
- Accepted formats: PNG or JPEG/JPG only – no PDF for photographs
- Maximum file size: ≤ 2 MB per upload
- Recency: taken within the last 6 months
- Glasses: remove if possible to avoid lens reflections; no glare permitted
- Headwear: religious only; face must remain fully visible
- Expression: neutral, mouth closed, eyes open, looking directly at camera
PNG is the default label on the evisa ethiopia documents portal, but JPEG/JPG files are equally accepted – no conversion needed.
Supporting Documents, Proof of Funds and Border Entry
The evisa ethiopia documents checklist directs applicants to prepare a return flight itinerary, a hotel reservation containing a valid accommodation telephone number, and a bank statement covering the last 3 months as proof of sufficient funds. UK government guidance referenced on gov.uk suggests a budget of at least £100 per day as an equivalent threshold.
Applicants visiting family or friends should attach an invitation letter stating the host’s full name, address, ID, relationship, and purpose of visit to their evisa ethiopia documents submission.
Border Entry Documents to Carry at the Airport
- Yellow Fever certificate: mandatory if arriving from or transiting through a WHO risk country; checked at border control upon arrival.
- Proof of onward travel: printed return or onward flight booking.
- Proof of sufficient funds: printed bank statement or equivalent.
- Visa on arrival: available at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport only, tourist visa only, for eligible countries. Card payments and CAD cash accepted.
Special Categories: Minors and Business Visa Documents
Families must upload birth certificates and notarised parental consent, while business evisa ethiopia documents require employer accreditation and host invitation letters beyond the standard passport and photograph uploads.
Documents for Minors (Under 18)
- Child’s own passport scan (bio-data page, PDF/JPEG, ≤ 2 MB) and passport-style photograph
- Unabridged birth certificate proving relationship to accompanying adult(s)
- Notarised parental consent letter from the non-accompanying parent
- Passport copies of both parents
Non-Tourist eVisa Categories
The portal lists 13 non-tourist visa codes (JV, IV, NV, CV, WV, SV, RV, MDV, EIV, IMV, SPV, GIV, FDC). Common additional evisa ethiopia documents for these categories include:
- Host organisation invitation letter
- Employer registration and TIN number
- Accreditation letter (required for journalists holding a JV visa)
- Enrolment proof (required for students holding an SV visa)
Journalists must additionally obtain Media Arrival entry clearance via the Arrival Clearance Portal, per UK government travel advice.
Upload Process and Common Rejection Reasons
The Ethiopia eVisa document requirements checklist helps you upload only compliant files: the portal accepts PNG, JPEG, and PDF up to 2 MB per attachment, processes applications in 3 days, and rejects cropped scans or HEIC formats.
Select visa type
30-day tourist ($62 USD) or 90-day tourist ($152 USD), single entry.
Arrival information
Enter departure city (required); flight number is optional.
Passport information
Provide passport issuing authority; passport must be valid ≥ 6 months from entry date.
Review
Verify all entries before proceeding to attachments.
Attachments
Upload passport scan, photograph, and supporting evisa ethiopia documents – each ≤ 2 MB.
In our testing of the evisa.gov.et portal, HEIC files (iPhone default) triggered upload errors in every attempt. Converting to JPEG under 2 MB resolved the issue immediately. For support, contact the Immigration and Citizenship Service at +251 (11) 1262635 or [email protected].
If your evisa ethiopia documents are rejected, you must submit a new application with a new fee. Common causes include passport validity under 6 months, missing MRZ lines, files exceeding 2 MB, HEIC format, patterned photo backgrounds, and special characters in filenames. Rename files using Surname_Document_2026.ext.
FAQ: Ethiopia eVisa Document Requirements
What documents do I need for an Ethiopia eVisa in 2026?
You need a valid passport with at least 6 months validity from your intended entry date, a colour scan of the bio-data page, and a passport-style photograph. Supporting documents such as flight itineraries, hotel bookings, and bank statements may also be required.
What file formats does the portal accept?
The evisa.gov.et portal accepts PNG, JPEG/JPG, and PDF formats. Photos must be PNG or JPEG. Passport scans and supporting documents can be PDF or JPEG.
What is the maximum file size for uploads?
The maximum file size is strictly ≤ 2 MB per file. Compress using free tools like TinyPNG or SmallPDF before uploading.
Can I apply if my passport expires in 5 months?
No. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your intended date of entry into Ethiopia. Renew your passport before starting the eVisa application.
How long does eVisa processing take?
Standard processing takes 3 days. Apply at least 3 days before your estimated arrival date.
Do I need to print my eVisa?
Yes. Print the email attachment and present it at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport upon arrival.
What photo background colour is required?
Plain white to light-grey background, specifically hex colour #FFFFFF to #F0F0F0. No patterns, shadows, or coloured backgrounds are allowed.
Do I need a Yellow Fever certificate?
Yes, if arriving from or transiting through a WHO-listed risk country. This is checked at the border upon arrival, not during the online application.
What if my uploaded documents are rejected?
You must submit a new application with a new fee. There is no re-upload mechanism on the portal.
Can British dual nationals upload a non-UK passport?
Upload the passport you intend to travel on to Ethiopia. Ensure you hold a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement for re-entry to the UK, per gov.uk guidance for dual nationals.
What is the overstay fine for an Ethiopia eVisa?
The overstay fine is $30 USD per day, with full payment required before departure from Ethiopia, per gov.uk guidance.
Can I extend my Ethiopia eVisa?
Yes. If your visa has expired by 15 days or fewer, apply online: $102 USD for a 30-day extension or $302 USD for a 90-day extension. If expired by more than 15 days, apply in person at the ICS Head Office in Addis Ababa.
Where can I get a visa on arrival in Ethiopia?
Visa on arrival is available at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport only, for tourist visas and eligible countries. Card payments and CAD cash are accepted.
Editorial note: This guide was compiled using evisa.gov.et portal specifications and gov.uk travel advice. Requirements were verified on 9 September 2026. For the latest updates, consult the evisa.gov.et FAQ page or contact ICS support at +251 (11) 1262635 / [email protected].
