Ethiopia to Launch Online Entry Visa Application, Issuance

Addis Ababa, June 13, 2017 (FBC) The Ethiopian Immigration and Nationality Affairs Main Department, in collaboration with Ethiopian Airlines, has reportedly finalized preparations of the initial phase to commence an e-visa service for international visitors to Ethiopia.

According to a press release of the Ethiopian Airlines, the e-visa is processed and issued online on a single web page where applicants apply, pay and secure their entry visa online.

Once the online application is approved, applicants will receive an email authorizing them to travel to Ethiopia and they will get their passport stamped with the visa upon arrival in Addis Ababa, it added.

The release further quoted Ethiopian Airlines CEO Tewolde Gebremariam as saying the project is part of a new national initiative to transform the tourism sector in the country and the full commencement of the Online Visa Application and Issuance System will promote tourism, trade and investment to the country.

It will also save time, energy and cost for travelers to Ethiopia, in addition to the simplicity and convenience that it facilitates.

With direct flights to/from more than 95 destinations from all corners of the world operated by the most modern airplanes, the airline will continue to make travel to Ethiopia dependable, easy, convenient and affordable.

Ethiopian Immigration and Nationality Affairs Main Department Director, Gebreyohannes Teklu, said the department is glad that it has been working together with Ethiopian Airlines for the effective implementation of e-visa facilities at Bole International Airport.

He added that now “international visitors to Ethiopia, from countries provisioned for visa upon arrival, will make use of this service. Moreover, we have set up separate counters to process the visas of travelers under electronic travel authorization.”