The eVisa system in Ethiopia was launched in June 2017 as part of a broader effort to modernize the country’s immigration and border control processes. Developed by Ethiopia’s Main Department for Immigration and Nationality Affairs in collaboration with Ethiopian Airlines, the digital platform was initially available to a limited number of nationalities. Its introduction marked a significant shift from traditional, paper-based visa applications to a more streamlined and accessible online system.

The initial phase of the eVisa program targeted tourists, aiming to boost Ethiopia’s appeal as a global travel destination. By offering an easy online application process and allowing travelers to obtain a visa without visiting an embassy, Ethiopia positioned itself as a more accessible and traveler-friendly country. Over time, the eligibility list expanded to include more countries, reflecting the government’s intent to promote tourism and economic ties through easier mobility.

As the eVisa system matured, Ethiopia added more categories beyond tourism, including business and conference visas, to accommodate the growing number of international visitors attending trade events or exploring investment opportunities. The platform has continued to evolve with enhanced security features, quicker processing, and broader accessibility, cementing the eVisa as a key component of Ethiopia’s digital transformation in travel and immigration services.

Today, the eVisa is widely used by tourists and business travelers alike and is recognized as a success story in regional digital governance. It supports Ethiopia’s goals of increasing tourism revenue, improving border security, and creating a more efficient visitor experience.