---
title: Ethiopia visa for citizens of South Africa
description: "Citizens of South Africa can get a visa on arrival in Ethiopia. Stay up to 30 days. Fee: $50. Processing: On arrival. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/ethiopia/south-africa
lastModified: 2026-09-05
---

# Ethiopia visa for citizens of South Africa

Citizens of South Africa can get a visa on arrival in Ethiopia.

*Verified · last checked 2026-09-05. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.*

## Key facts

- **Entry route:** Visa on Arrival (Tourist/Single Entry)
- **How to apply:** Get your visa at the border
- **Maximum stay:** Up to 30 days
- **Entries:** Single entry
- **Processing time:** On arrival
- **Government fee:** $50
- **Passport validity:** At least 6 months
- **Biometrics:** Not required
- **Appointment:** Not required
- **Interview:** Not required
- **Onward or return ticket:** Required

## How to apply

1. **Arrive at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport** — Visa on arrival is only obtainable at this specific airport.
2. **Proceed to visa on arrival counter** — Locate the designated visa issuance desk before immigration.
3. **Complete application form** — Fill out the visa application form provided on site.
4. **Submit documents and pay fee** — Hand over passport, photos, onward ticket, and pay the visa fee in USD cash.
5. **Receive visa and proceed to immigration** — Officer will process and issue visa sticker; then proceed to passport control.

## Documents checklist

- **Valid South African passport** (Identity): Must have at least 6 months validity from date of entry and at least one blank visa page.
- **Return or onward ticket** (Travel): Proof of departure from Ethiopia within authorized stay.
- **Passport-sized photographs** (Identity): One recent color photograph, 35x45mm, white background.
- **Visa application form (on arrival)** (Travel): Completed upon arrival at the airport before immigration.
- **Visa fee (cash USD)** (Financial): Payable in USD cash only; approximately $50 for 30-day single entry.
- **Proof of accommodation** (Supporting, optional): Hotel booking or letter of invitation may be requested.
- **Yellow fever vaccination certificate** (Supporting): Required if traveling from a yellow fever-endemic country; otherwise recommended.

## Good to know

- Visa on arrival is only available at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, not at land borders or other airports.
- e-Visa holders must also arrive via Addis Ababa Bole International Airport.
- Fees and policies are subject to change; confirm before travel.

## Common refusal reasons

- **Insufficient passport validity (less than 6 months).** — Ensure passport is valid for at least 6 months from date of entry.
- **Lack of onward/return ticket.** — Have printed proof of a confirmed onward or return ticket.
- **Insufficient funds or incorrect fee payment (non-USD).** — Bring exact USD cash for the visa fee; no other currencies accepted.
- **Previous visa violations or immigration issues.** — Maintain clean travel record; carry supporting documents if needed.

## FAQs

### Do citizens of South Africa need a visa for Ethiopia?

Citizens of South Africa can get a visa on arrival in Ethiopia. Visa type: Visa on Arrival (Tourist/Single Entry).

### How long can citizens of South Africa stay in Ethiopia?

Up to 30 days.

### How much does the Ethiopia visa cost for citizens of South Africa?

Government fee: $50.

### What documents do citizens of South Africa need for Ethiopia?

Valid South African passport; Return or onward ticket; Passport-sized photographs; Visa application form (on arrival); Visa fee (cash USD); Yellow fever vaccination certificate; and 1 more depending on your situation.

### How long must my passport be valid for Ethiopia?

At least 6 months.

## More

- [Ethiopia visa for every passport](/visa/ethiopia)
- [Every destination for South Africa passport holders](/visa/passport/south-africa)