Ethiopian visa for Swiss citizens
The information on this webpage is for travelers using a Swiss passport, and explains any updates regarding the Ethiopia visa for Swiss citizens.
Citizens of Switzerland need a visa to travel to Ethiopia. Instead of waiting in line at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport to get a visa on arrival, Swiss citizens can apply for an online visa for Ethiopia.
It’s quick and convenient to apply for an Ethiopia tourist visa for Swiss citizens online.
Do Swiss Citizens Need a Visa for Ethiopia?
Yes, Swiss citizens must have a valid visa to enter Ethiopia.
Except for citizens of Kenya and Djibouti, all other international visitors must obtain a visa to enter Ethiopia, including Swiss citizens.
The relations between Switzerland and Ethiopia are strong and constantly reinforced by various bilateral agreements, as well as political consultations.
Fortunately, applying for an Ethiopian visa as a Swiss citizen is not difficult. Travelers need a Swiss passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended date of entry.
The Ethiopia eVisa for Swiss citizens is valid for 30 or 90 days. It is a single-entry visa, meaning it can be used to enter the country once.
It is possible to get a visa extension, providing it is requested at least one week prior to the current visa expiring. Visa extensions can be requested at the Main Immigration and Nationality Affairs Office in Addis Ababa. Swiss visitors can also apply for a new eVisa.
Multiple-entry visas for Swiss citizens visiting Ethiopia can be requested by making an appointment at the Ethiopian embassy or consulate in Switzerland.
For Swiss citizens transiting through Ethiopia, no transit visa will be required as long as the traveler does not leave the airport.
Holders of service or diplomatic passports of any country, except for Somalia and Pakistan, can enter Ethiopia visa-free for a period of up to 3 months.
Ethiopian Visa Application for Swiss Citizens
The Ethiopian visa application for Swiss citizens is a simple online form. Travelers must answer questions covering personal information, passport information, travel plans, vaccination and health history, as well as security information for Ethiopia.
The following are the types of information required:
- Personal information, such as full name, address, date of birth among others
- Passport details, such as passport number, expiry date, nationality, among others
- Travel plans, such as dates, hotel address
- Health information such as medical history and vaccinations, among others
Swiss applicants must check all the information provided on the application form carefully. Incorrect information or mistakes could lead to processing delays or, on rare occasions, visa rejection.
Upon approval, the Ethiopian e-visa that is sent by email should be printed in preparation for arrival at the port of entry - Addis Ababa Bole International Airport is the only point of entry with an eVisa. Travelers should keep a copy of the eVisa on their person at all times throughout the stay.
Swiss applicants holding dual citizenship use the same passport to enter Ethiopia as the one used when completing the application form for the electronic visa.
Documents Required to Obtain the Ethiopian Visa for Swiss Citizens
To successfully apply for an eVisa, Swiss travelers must meet all Ethiopian visa requirements.
The complete list of documents for an Ethiopian tourist visa for Swiss citizens includes:
- Valid Swiss passport (must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the indicated date of arrival)
- Recent passport size digital photo in color
- Scanned copy of your passport bio page
- Completed Ethiopia eVisa application form
- Valid form of online card payment
Additional documents that may be required:
- Travel insurance
- Vaccination Certificate against Yellow Fever
- Recent bank statement of sufficient funds
*Note: Swiss Emergency Travel Documents (ETDs) are also accepted for entry, airside transit and exit from Ethiopia.
At least 8 weeks prior to your intended trip, consult with Switzerland’s latest health advice for Ethiopian specific information on vaccine recommendations, outbreaks or health risks.
Important things to keep in mind
- It’s illegal to carry over 1000 Ethiopian birr when either entering or leaving Ethiopia
- Cash in excess of $3,000 or the equivalent in local currency must be declared
Visiting Ethiopia on a tourist visa means Swiss citizens cannot:
- Take up any kind of employment, voluntary employment included
- Change immigration status
* Note: Travelers who require emergency help from the Government of Switzerland while abroad should contact the nearest Swiss embassy or consulate.
Ethiopia eVisa Information for Swiss Minors
All Swiss minors, regardless of their age, need a separate application to apply for an Ethiopian eVisa.
This following is a list of additional documents that may be required:
- A consent letter confirming the permission for the child to travel alone or accompanied by one parent
- Other supporting documents: citizenship card or birth certificate
- Other supporting legal documents: custody court orders, divorce papers, death certificate in case of a deceased parent
How Long Does it Take to Get a Visa for Ethiopia from Switzerland?
Once all necessary documents and the application form have been submitted correctly, the Ethiopian authorities will proceed to screen the application, additional documents, and fee payment.
Visas tend to be approved within 1 to 2 business days (24-48 hours). The process may take longer on rare occasions caused by application errors or inaccuracies.
It is advisable to apply at least 7 days prior to your trip in order to allow plenty of time for processing and/or required improvements.
When applying for an Ethiopian visa from Switzerland, the response/approval is sent via email. A printed copy of your approved visa should be presented at border control upon arrival at the airport.