Ethiopia

Security Status

High Degree of Caution

Travel Alert

Ebola Outbreak

Humanitarian Aid Workers travelling to Ethiopia are urged to register with HSE HPSC in advance of their deployment.

All Irish citizens living in or visiting Ethiopia are encouraged to register their presence on our Citizen Registration platform.

Returning to Ireland from an Ebola-affected area (DRC, Uganda) or neighbouring countries (South Sudan, Rwanda, Burundi, Angola, the Central African Republic, the Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia)

Irish citizens and residents should monitor their health for 21 days after returning from the region. This is because the incubation period of the disease ranges from 2 to 21 days. If you develop symptoms such as fever, severe headache, or unexplained bleeding, seek immediate medical attention by phone and inform healthcare providers of your recent travel and any exposure to Ebola.

Irish Citizens and residents who have had known contact with an Ebola patient or the remains of someone who died of Ebola, contact your Regional Department of Public Health who will advise you to monitor your health in the 21 days after your exposure, and advise on any other measures you may need to take.

Regional Department of Health Contact List and further information on the Ebola Virus Disease is available on the HPSC website here.

Travel Restrictions

The Ethiopian authorities may implement travel restrictions anywhere in the country at short notice. Always check with your operator before travel.

General Travel Advice

Irish citizens require a visa to enter Ethiopia. Visas are available as an eVisa online via the official Government website. Please be aware that there are a number of unofficial websites charging additional fees to apply for the visa on your behalf. Irish citizens entering Ethiopia should allow additional time for the processing of e-visa applications as there may be delays.

Visa on arrival services are available for tourism visas only, but Irish citizens entering Ethiopia for tourism purposes are encouraged to obtain the appropriate visa before they travel to facilitate smoother entry into Ethiopia. Visa on arrival services can only be paid in US Dollars at the point of entry into Ethiopia.

Other visa types of visa should be applied for online in advance.

A valid passport is required for travel to Ethiopia. Irish passports should have a minimum validity of 6 months and 2 blank pages. Passport cards cannot be used.

Visitors to Ethiopia are advised to follow the guidance of national and local authorities and stay fully informed of what is going on by monitoring local news and social media.

Citizens can also follow the Embassy on X@IrlEmbEthiopia to ensure access to relevant updates and alerts.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade advises against all travel to:

• Tigray Regional State
• Amhara Regional State
• Benishangul-Gumuz Regional State.
• Gambella Regional State.
• The East and West Guji, East and West Wellega, Kelam Wellega and Horo Gudru Wellega zones of Oromia.
• The Gedeo zone of South Ethiopia Regional State.
• Parts of Afar Regional state within 10km of border with Eritrea.
• Land within 20km of the borders with Border areas with Sudan, South Sudan and Kenya.
• Land within 100km of the borders of Somalia and Somaliland excluding the city of Jijiga.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade advises against all but essential travel to:

• Ethiopia's Somali Regional State, excluding the area around Jijiga. Care should be take on the A10 road between Harar and Jijiga due to sporadic unrest, particularly in the area around Babile.

Travel insurance, including international medical evacuation, is essential for visitors to Ethiopia as medical facilities may be limited. It is essential that you check the terms of your travel insurance policy thoroughly before you travel. You should be aware that if you travel to areas of the country where the Department advises against all travel, your travel insurance is likely to be invalidated and the Embassy’s ability to provide consular assistance may be limited.

Details

Amhara

The Embassy recommends against all travel to Amhara Regional State as the region has seen active and ongoing armed conflict between local FANO militia groups and the Ethiopian National Defence Forces (ENDF) in both urban and rural areas since mid-2023. Conflict is dynamic and unpredictable, with large cities like Gondar and Bahir Dar and tourist sites including Lalibela periodically becoming contested sites with active shooting and artillery fire. Communications and electricity outages are widespread and air and road transport disruptions, including informal roadblocks, are common and unpredictable. Travellers in the region are at significant risk of being caught up in violence. Any Irish citizens in Amhara region should make plans to leave the region if it is safe to do so.

Tigray

The Cessation of Hostilities Agreement signed in November 2022 ended the large-scale fighting in Tigray. Nonetheless there continues to be reports of sporadic and indiscriminate violence particularly in the disputed of territory of Western Tigray and the Raya area of southern Tigray, but also elsewhere in the region, including in major urban centres such as Mekelle.

Addis Ababa

Addis Ababa is currently calm from a security perspective. However, citizens should exercise a high degree of caution, monitor local media and avoid any signs of demonstration. Irish citizens both resident in and visiting Addis should carry copies of identification at all times.

There has been an increase in petty crime in Addis Ababa, in particular street robbery and muggings. These incidents can turn violent. Be wary of distraction techniques while on the street, such as youth grabbing onto your person or offering things to you. Remain cautious when walking around the city, particularly if alone or after dark. While driving, ensure that doors are locked and windows are raised. If you are threatened, you should hand over any valuables without resistance.

There have also been reports of luggage theft and stealing of valuables in Addis Ababa Bole Airport, including in transport from the airport. Travellers should arrange official airport transport with their hotel and ensure they keep their luggage and valuables in sight at all times. Theft of valuables has also been reported at security screening on entry to the airport. All valuables should be placed inside luggage before screening.

Festivals and celebrations are held frequently in Addis Ababa throughout the year. Large crowds can gather, particularly around the Meskel Square area. Exercise caution around large gatherings, as these events can be targets for opportunistic crime (particularly pickpocketing).

Oromia

Due to clashes between armed groups and security forces, inter-communal violence and militia activity, all travel to western Oromia should be avoided, including Nekemte, West Wellega, East Wellega and Kelem Wellega zones. You should also avoid all travel to the East and West Guji and Gedeo zones (on the border between Oromia and South Ethiopia regions) due to civil unrest and armed clashes.

There have been a number of instances of kidnapping for ransom in Oromia region. These have targeted Ethiopian nationals and foreign nationals. Travel by road should be minimised; travellers are encouraged to travel between regions by air to the greatest degree possible.

Irish citizens travelling on the A1 road from Addis Ababa to Bishoftu should exercise a high degree of caution. Travel along this road at night is discouraged due to the possibility of roadblocks or attacks on vehicles.

Irish citizens planning to travel elsewhere within Oromia region should seek security advice from local contacts in advance of travel. Irish citizens should also minimise road transportation when possible due to risk of impromptu road blocks and checkpoints.

Afar

The embassy is aware of reports of attacks on goods vehicles and trucks moving along the A1 road from Djibouti to Addis Ababa. Driving at night on this road should be avoided.

Tensions in the border zones between Afar and Somali regions can give rise to unrest and violence.

Southern Regions

Border areas with Kenya and South Sudan can be volatile and should be avoided. If travelling in southern and south-western Ethiopia, you should exercise caution and follow the advice of local authorities.

Somali Region

Serious confrontations between ethnic groups have taken place along the Oromia-Somali and Afar-Somali borders, resulting in the mass displacement of people. Caution is advised along border areas with other regional states. All travel to the international border with Somalia should be avoided.

Al-Shabaab has a history of terrorist activity along the border regions with Somalia in Somali Regional State. The recent tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia have reportedly been used to drive recruitment for the group, and the local security situation is unpredictable. Travellers to Somali regional state should remain vigilant at all times and are advised to seek specific advice in advance of travel.

Emergency Assistance

The best help is often close at hand so if a problem arises, try talking to your local contacts, tour operator representatives or hotel management.

Visitors can contact the emergency services in Ethiopia by dialling:

• Emergency: 911
• Police: 991
• Ambulance (in Addis Ababa): 907

Our Tips for Safe Travels:

• Get comprehensive travel insurance that covers all planned activities.
• Register your details with us so that we can contact you quickly if there is an unforeseen crisis like a natural disaster or a family emergency.
• Follow us on X @dfatravelwise and Instagram @dfatravelwise for the latest travel updates.
• Read our ‘Know Before You Go’ guide.
• Read our Consular Assistance Charter that clearly sets out the assistance that can be provided to citizens in difficulty overseas, and the limits of what the Department can do.

Terrorism

There is a threat from terrorism in Ethiopia and security is tight in most hotels, shopping centres, and other public places. Irish citizens are reminded to maintain a high level of security awareness at all times: avoid crowds, review your personal safety, remain vigilant and be cautious when frequenting prominent public places and landmarks.

Crime

Crime remains relatively low in Ethiopia but muggings and armed assaults are on the rise, especially in Addis Ababa. While violent crime, particularly against foreigners, is unusual, it is not unheard of. Crime increases significantly after dark and it is not advisable to walk unaccompanied in Addis Ababa or elsewhere after nightfall. Please take sensible precautions:

• Do not carry credit cards, travel tickets and money together – leave spare cash and valuables in a safe place
• Do not carry your passport unless absolutely necessary and leave a photocopy of your passport (and travel and insurance documents) with family or friends at home
• Avoid showing large sums of money in public and do not use ATMs after dark, especially if alone. Check no one has followed you.
• Avoid dark and unlit streets and stairways, and arrange to be picked up or dropped off as close to your hotel or apartment entrance as possible
• Keep a close eye on personal belongings and hold on to them in public places such as internet cafés, train and bus stations
• Keep vehicle doors locked and bags out of sight to prevent opportunistic bag snatching from vehicles stopped at traffic lights
• Be alert when calling or texting on your mobile phone it is best not to do this on the street. Violent muggings have occurred over mobile phones worth less than €20 in Ireland.
• Be vigilant if approached by strangers seeking assistance – criminal gangs are known to use distraction techniques including begging, grabbing your arm, spitting or spilling food/drink on you or feigning illness.
• Keep belongings on your person while travelling in taxis, and keep valuables like cameras and passports out of sight.
• There have been reports of scams involving a person hiding in the back or the boot of a taxi from the airport to hotels and stealing valuables from baggage placed in the back seat. When travelling in taxis, sitting in the back seat is recommended. If a taxi driver insists on you sitting in the front seat, try to find another taxi. Be particularly vigilant where they insist on baggage being in the back seat while you sit in the front.

Petty Theft

Bag snatching and pick pocketing are most common in areas frequented by foreigners such as the Piazza, Mercato, Bole and Churchill Road areas of Addis Ababa. Be especially watchful for pickpockets when getting out of taxis in these areas. Be aware of groups attempting to distract you while others pick your pockets.

Reporting Crime

If a victim of a crime while in Ethiopia, report it to the local police immediately. Contact the Irish Embassy in Addis Ababa if you need help.

Homosexuality

Homosexual activity is illegal and the subject is taboo for the majority of Ethiopians. There has been an increase in anti-LGBT rhetoric from authorities in Ethiopia and displays of affection in public are likely to attract unwanted attention.

Social Unrest

The political situation across Ethiopia can be volatile. Public and civil protests are frequent and can turn violent without warning. Universities can be hotspots for ethnically motivated violence. If intending to visit a university during your stay, please seek the advice of your university contacts.

We advise to avoid demonstrations and public gatherings, which can sometimes turn confrontational. Always keep yourself informed by monitoring local media and staying in contact with your hotel or tour organiser.

Driving

If planning to drive in Ethiopia, be aware that road safety standards are low and you need to be extremely careful while driving or walking on roads. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Ethiopia has the highest rate of traffic fatalities per vehicle in the world. We advise against travelling by road outside towns and cities after dark, due to the increased risk of road accidents and reports of targeting of vehicles by armed groups in some parts of the country.

Roads in Ethiopia are poorly maintained, inadequately marked and poorly lit. Road travel after dark outside Addis Ababa and other cities is dangerous and discouraged due to hazards posed by broken-down vehicles left in the road, pedestrians walking in the road, stray animals, and the possibility of armed robbery. Excessive speed, unpredictable local driving habits, pedestrians and livestock in the roadway, and the lack of adherence to basic safety standards for vehicles are daily hazards on Ethiopian roads.

If travelling by taxi, it is advised to only use the yellow metered taxis or ordered through a taxi app, as these generally have higher standards of maintenance than the blue and white taxis. Please ensure to always wear a seat belt when travelling in a taxi.

It is unlawful to use a cell phone or other electronic communications device while driving in Ethiopia (even if it has a hands-free feature), and use of seat belts is required. Be sure to carry a valid driver's license, as well as proof of comprehensive local insurance coverage. While in a vehicle, keep doors locked and the windows rolled up at all times. Keep bags, purses, and valuables out of sight — in the trunk, on the floor, or in the glove compartment. Do not carry unnecessary items in your bag; leave credit cards etc., at home. Do not open doors or windows to give to beggars. Police can fine people for giving money to beggars.

If you want to drive:

• Ensure that you apply for and bring an International Driving Permit from the AA and make sure you have adequate and appropriate insurance.
• If intending to use your Irish driving licence to apply for an Ethiopian driving licence, your driving licence must be authenticated by a notary public/ the National Driver Licence Service and the Department of Foreign Affairs in Dublin before travelling.
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is against the law and you risk being detained, fined or banned from driving if caught
• Be aware of Ethiopia's traffic laws, such as speed limits
• Wear seatbelts at all times
• Keep vehicle doors locked and bags kept out of sight to prevent opportunistic bag-snatching if stopped at traffic lights
• If you encounter roadblocks or checkpoints while driving, follow the advice of the local authorities present. If the roadblock or checkpoint is unattended, turn around and not attempt to pass it.

Traffic Accidents

If your vehicle comes into contact with another, make sure that valuables are secure before getting out of the vehicle and lock doors to prevent theft while not in the vehicle. The Traffic Police will come to assess the scene and mark the location of the incident.

If there is a dispute at the scene, try to remain calm, do not engage physically, and try to take note of the other driver's name, licence plate, description, etc. If a crowd assembles, stay in your car and wait for the police to arrive.

Vehicle Hire

If hiring a vehicle, we advise you not to hand over your passport as a form of security. If allowing your passport to be photocopied, keep it in sight at all times.

Check that you have adequate insurance and read the small print of the vehicle hire contract (particularly any waiver that will come into effect if the vehicle is damaged).

Check with a doctor well in advance of travelling to see if any vaccinations are required for Ethiopia.

Medical Facilities

Although there are hospitals in all major towns in Ethiopia, facilities and the supply of medicines are extremely poor even in the larger towns outside Addis Ababa. Make sure you have adequate medical insurance, which covers medical evacuation by air ambulance, before arrival.

Almost all regional hospitals will be unable to treat serious injuries or illnesses adequately. In the most serious cases, even the medical facilities in Addis Ababa may not be adequate. It may be worthwhile to carry a comprehensive medical pack if travelling or living outside Addis Ababa for an extended period.

Polio

Polio vaccination is recommended for all travellers from Ireland to countries where polio transmission is a risk.

Before travelling to areas where poliomyelitis cases are still occurring, travellers should ensure that they have completed the recommended age-appropriate polio vaccine schedule and have received a booster dose, if necessary. More information is available on the Health Protection and Surveillance Centre website.

Waterborne Diseases

Waterborne diseases are common in Ethiopia and it is advisable to either boil water before drinking, or use bottled water. Since water boils at temperatures below 100 degrees centigrade at high altitudes, boiling may not be adequate to ensure sterilisation in some places. Bilharzia is common in most lakes in Ethiopia; check before going swimming.

Malaria

Malaria is common in areas of the country below 1,800 metres or so. In the northern tourist circuit, most towns are well above this altitude. However, Bahir Dar is at an altitude of 1850 metres, and does experience cases of malaria.

Before travelling, get up-to-date medical advice as to whether you will need anti-malarial medication. On arrival, take adequate precautions against being bitten by mosquitoes. Be aware that the full range of anti-malarial medications, which can be purchased in Ireland, is not available in Ethiopia.

Rabies

Stray dogs are common in Addis Ababa and across Ethiopia. We recommend seeking advice from your doctor on rabies vaccination.

Irish citizens should be sensitive to local customs, traditions and practices in Ethiopia as one’s behaviour may be seen as improper, hostile or may even be illegal.

Muslim and Christian society

Both Muslim and Christian Ethiopians generally dress in a conservative manner. In most, but not all, Ethiopian Orthodox churches there are restrictions on full or partial access for women - notices are usually posted in English at the entrances of the main churches that tourists frequent.

Illegal Drugs

Illegal drug use (no matter what the drug) carries stiff penalties, including fines and long prison terms.

Western and Julian Calendars

The western and Julian calendars are used in Ethiopia. The Julian calendar runs seven to eight years behind the western calendar Christmas is celebrated on 7 January and New Year on 11 September.

Similarly, two systems of time are used. Ethiopian time is measured as a 12-hour day starting at 6am. Western 7am is referred to by many as one o’clock. Many Ethiopians are aware of this difference and will often convert times when speaking to foreigners.

Exporting Antiques

A permit is required to export antiques from Ethiopia. To avoid confusion on departure, keep receipts for any souvenirs bought, including crosses, which could be mistaken for valuable cultural artefacts.

In Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, you can fill in the customs declaration form in the baggage hall.

Photography

Ethiopian law strictly prohibits the photographing of military installations, police/military personnel, industrial facilities, government buildings, and infrastructure (roads, bridges, dams, airfields, etc.). Such sites are rarely marked clearly. Travel guides, police, and Ethiopian officials can advise if a particular site may be photographed. Photographing prohibited sites may result in the confiscation of film/camera and arrest.

Money

Ethiopia is primarily a cash economy. Dollars and some of the more popular travellers’ checks can be changed at the airport, and at some banks. Banking facilities are very limited outside of Addis Ababa, and as such travellers outside the capital should ensure they have an adequate supply of cash before departing.

ATMs

There are some ATM machines at the major hotels and commercial centres that accept major international credit and debit cards, although connectivity problems sometimes limit their availability. While credit cards are gaining acceptance with some hotels, travel agencies, and merchants (Visa is much more widely accepted than Mastercard), it is best to check ahead and ensure you have sufficient cash reserves. Bear in mind that travellers’ cheques are not generally accepted outside Addis Ababa.

There are strict rules about taking foreign currency and Ethiopian Birr out of Ethiopia. You cannot take more than USD$3,000 (or equivalent in foreign currency) out of Ethiopia, unless you declared the amount when you arrived in the country or you have an Ethiopian bank advice certifying the purchase of the foreign currency. You cannot take more than 3,000 Ethiopian Birr in to or out of the country.

Amounts over 3,000 Ethiopian Birr, or undeclared amounts over USD$3,000 may be confiscated by the Ethiopian authorities.

In case of emergency, Western Union have offices in Ethiopia, which can facilitate money transfers.

Practical advice

• If travelling to Ethiopia, make sure you know what to expect – then plan and pack so that you are prepared
• Get local advice on how to manage in the case of a serious incident or dangerous conditions
• Co-operate with local authorities and emergency services in the case of serious incidents
• The rainy season in Ethiopia lasts from May to September. During this time, some areas, particularly in the Southern Region, can be prone to mudslides. Check with local contacts in advance of travel.

Seismic Activity

Ethiopia can experience high levels of seismic and volcanic activity. Updates on earthquakes and seismic activities can be monitored on the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System (GDACS). Irish citizens in Ethiopia are advised to familiarise themselves with safety procedures in the event of an earthquake. This can include identifying a room that can be used as a shelter following an earthquake as well as having an emergency supply kit and closed-toed shoes within reach of one’s bed. Irish citizens may also consult the Red Cross, which provides comprehensive information on how to respond after an earthquake. Irish citizens should follow the advice of local authorities and monitor local media should a major earthquake occur in Ethiopia.

Altitude

Some people find it hard to adjust to the altitude in the Ethiopian highlands and need to avoid over-exertion.

Irish citizens should be sensitive to local customs, traditions and practices in Ethiopia as one’s behaviour may be seen as improper, hostile or may even be illegal.

Visa

Irish citizens require a visa to enter Ethiopia. Visas are available as an eVisa online. Visa on arrival services are available for tourism visas only, but Irish citizens entering Ethiopia for tourism purposes are encouraged to obtain the appropriate visa before they travel to facilitate smoother entry into Ethiopia. Other visa types of visa should be applied for online in advance.

The e-visa can be obtained from www.evisa.gov.et. This is the official government website. Please be aware that there are a number of unofficial websites charging additional fees to apply for the visa on your behalf. Irish citizens entering Ethiopia should allow additional time for the processing of e-visa applications as there may be delays.

Visa on arrival services can only be paid in US Dollars at the point of entry into Ethiopia.

Travelers who transit through Bole international Airport do not require a transit visa if they remain in the permitted transit area and depart within 12 hours.

It is currently possible to extend e-visas, though the Embassy understands these are being granted only in a limited number of circumstances. It is best to apply for an extension in good time in order to avoid the risk of overstay. Current visa extension fees are 100% of the initial visa fee for a first time one-month extension, 150% of the initial visa fee for a second time 15 day extension, and 200% for a third time 10 day extension. Full details on visa extensions can be found here. Travellers whose entry visa expires before they depart Ethiopia must obtain a visa extension through the Main Immigration Office in Addis Ababa. Currently, there is an overstay penalty fee of $10 a day, which must be paid before leaving Ethiopia. Travellers overstaying their visas may be detained by immigration officials and/or required to appear in immigration court, and may be subject to additional fines.

Passport

A valid passport is required for travel to Ethiopia. Irish passports should have a minimum validity of 6 months and 2 blank pages. Passport cards cannot be used.

Yellow Fever Vaccination

Travellers coming from areas where Yellow Fever is endemic must be vaccinated against the disease, and will be asked to provide proof in the form a WHO-approved yellow vaccination booklet.

In case of emergency, please contact the Embassy by telephone: +251 11 518 0500.

Monday - Thursday 8.30am to 12.30pm and 1.30pm to 5.00pm; Friday 8.30am to 12.30pm