Ethiopia, a land of stunning nature, long past, and lively culture, is turning into one of the essential places to be visited by Bulgarians in 2025. In case you would be discovering the rock-hewn churches, hiking through the Simien Mountains, or soaking up the cultural heritage, a seamless travel experience begins with the Ethiopia eVisa.
This guide provides Bulgarian citizens with Every single detail necessary for the submission of an online visa application, such as the prerequisites, the price, the time to the service, health advice, and travel insurance, local connections, safety tips, and top places to visit, is available here.
What Is the Ethiopia eVisa?
The Ethiopia eVisa is an online travel authorization An electronic visa is basically a permit authorized through the internet which allows foreigners to enter Ethiopia for tourism, business, or transit. Once electronically approved, the eVisa thus does not require long airport queues or office visits.
How it Works:
- Fill up your application through the Online Ethiopian eVisa.
- Receive the approval email within 3–5 working days.
- Prepare a copy of your eVisa and present it along with your passport at the airport.
Ethiopia e-Visa Eligibility for Bulgarian Citizens
Yes, Bulgarian citizens are eligible for an Ethiopia Tourist Visa and other purposes, If travelers possess a legitimate passport, a digital passport-sized photo, and a scanned copy of the bio-data page of their passport, they are eligible to apply for an e-Visa. This method of travel authorization is safe and fast as it is done prior to the arrival and the applicants must be in a foreign country while applying. An important point to note is that the passport should remain valid for six months from the date of entry into Ethiopia .
- Passport Validity: Must be valid for six months from the date of arrival in Ethiopia.
- Entry Point: Addis Ababa Bole International Airport is the only place from where a person can enter the country. No border crossings by land are allowed.
- Visa Type: Usually, visas for single entries are i
- Visa Type: Usually, visas for single entries are issued. However, if required, a person will be able to obtain extensions while in Ethiopia..
- Application Timing: The best time for a visa application is between 7 and 10 days before the date of travel.
Bulgarians living in Bulgaria may choose to obtain a tourist, business, or transit visa depending on the reason of their visit.
What are the requirements to travel to Ethiopia for Bulgarian Applicants?
Bulgaria citizens who want to obtain an Ethiopia e-Visa must have a passport that is valid for six months after their stay. They will also need a digital passport photo, and a clear scan of the information page of their passport. Additionally, they will have to provide evidence of onward travel (such as a return flight ticket), and if the visa is of a certain type, a vaccination certificate for yellow fever may be required.
Required documents
- Valid Passport – A valid passport with six months of validity and has two blank visa pages. Defective or expired passports are not accepted.
- Recent Passport-Sized Photographs – Photographs with a white background color and the correct size (35mm x 45mm).
- Travel Itinerary – The round-trip flight details showing confirmed arrival and departure dates.
- Payment Method – A credit or debit card in good standing to pay the eVisa processing fee.
Make sure that all the details are exactly the same as those in your passport to prevent your application from being rejected.
What type of eVisa is Ethiopia?
Firstly, a Bulgarian traveler is allowed to file for three different types of eVisa from which one can be chosen:
Tourist eVisa
- Valid for 30 or 90 days.
- Appropriate for a visit to the historical sites, cultural attractions, and natural parks.
Business eVisa
- Valid for up to 90 days.
- The best usage will be for a person willing to attend conferences, meetings, or trade events.
Transit eVisa
- Valid for 72 hours maximum.
- Any traveler going through Ethiopia on their way to a different country may obtain this
Ethiopia Visa on Arrival for Bulgarian Citizens (2025)
Yes, Bulgarian citizens can get a visa on arrival when traveling to Ethiopia. However, it is available only at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport and is generally granted for tourism or business visits.
Even though you are allowed to do so, it is definitely more convenient and reliable to obtain a visa through an online method. You may have to wait for your turn and pay in cash if you decide to get a visa on arrival.
Before You Travel
- Apply for an eVisa: Bulgarian citizens are encouraged to apply for an Ethiopia eVisa online before their trip. It’s a convenient, quick, and secure way to receive pre-travel authorization.
- Check Passport Validity: Ensure that your passport is valid for six months after your arrival date in Ethiopia.
- Confirm Current Requirements: Visa regulations and entry limitations may vary. To be on the safe side, always check the latest travel info from a trustworthy source before setting off.
Visa on Arrival Details
- Entry Point: The visa on arrival is only issued at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport.
- Purpose: Primarily intended for tourism and business purposes.
- Preparation: Have your passport, travel documents, and visa fee ready for inspection and payment upon arrival.The Ethiopia eVisa remains the preferred option for most Bulgarian travelers. It saves time, ensures smoother airport processing, and reduces the risk of delays after landing.
Step-by-Step Ethiopia e-Visa Application Process (Online Guide 2025)
It is easy to Apply Ethiopia eVisa online and can be done in a few steps:
1. Start Your Online Application
Select Bulgarian as your nationality. Complete your personal data, passport information, travel dates, and visa type required. Double-checking this information avoids delays or refusal.
2. Upload Documents and Photos
Have well-organized and easily accessible digital copies of your passport, flight ticket, hotel reservations, and any other documents that may be required as a support for your application. An Ethiopia e-Visa application
3. Review and Payment
Make sure that all the details are correct and then pay for the Ethiopia Visa Fee in a nice and safe way through the internet. The proper method of payment will even facilitate your application to be processed immediately.
4. Track Your Application
You can check your Visa Application Status on the portal itself. By using this feature, you will be able to get the real-time updates, and the whole process will be free from any kind of trouble and will be transparent.
How much is the e-visa for Ethiopia?
When applying for an Ethiopia eVisa, you can select a processing speed that suits your travel plans. Normal processing takes 6–8 working days, ideal if your trip is more than two weeks away. Rush processing completes in 4–6 working days for an additional $69, while Super Rush guarantees 2–4 working days at $99, perfect for last-minute departures, though same-day approval cannot be guaranteed.
Once all the information has been entered, verify correctness and pay for the Ethiopia Visa Fee securely online. The right way of payment will even make your application directly into processing.
How long does it take to get an Ethiopian e-visa?
- Standard Approval: 3–5 working days.
- Apply at least 10 days in advance.
- Delays can occur during peak travel seasons or if documents are incomplete.
How long is an Ethiopian eVisa valid?
- Single-entry visas: Default for most travelers.
- Tourist visas: 30 or 90 days.
- Business visas: Up to 90 days.
- Transit visas: Maximum 72 hours.
Extensions: Apply at immigration offices in Addis Ababa before your visa expires to avoid fines.
11. Common Ethiopia e-Visa Rejection Reasons & How to Avoid Them
- Mismatched information: Ensure names, passport number, and travel dates match exactly.
- Incomplete documents: Upload clear, legible passport scans and photos.
- Late application: Submit at least 7–10 days before travel.
- Insufficient funds or unclear travel purpose: Provide travel plans, hotel bookings, and return tickets if possible.
Health Considerations When Traveling to Ethiopia
Vaccinations Required for Ethiopia
- Yellow Fever: Mandatory for travelers from risk countries.
- Typhoid: Recommended, especially if visiting rural areas.
- Hepatitis A & B: Advisable for long-term stays.
- Malaria: Common in lowlands; consider preventive medication.
Travel Health Insurance for Ethiopia
- Covers emergency medical care, hospitalization, and evacuation.
- Protects against trip cancellations, delays, or lost luggage.
- Include COVID-19 coverage for added security.
Health Tips for Travelers
- Drink bottled water; avoid tap water.
- Avoid street food unless it’s from a reputable source.
- Pack a travel health kit: medications, hand sanitizers, and mosquito repellent.
SIM Cards and Mobile Connectivity in Ethiopia
Using Your Bulgarian SIM Card
- It can be done but still, it will be an expensive option due to roaming charges.It can be done but still, it will be an expensive option due to roaming charges.
- To keep the expenses down a local SIM is the best choice.
Where to Buy a SIM Card
- Ethio Telecom – The state-owned provider, good coverage in most areas.
- Safaricom Ethiopia – Increasing coverage in the city areas.
- One will need to present a passport for registration.
Types of SIM Cards
- Prepaid SIM: The best choice for short-term visitors.
- Data-only SIM: A low-cost solution for internet access.
How to Activate
- Put the SIM card in your phone.
- Perform the activation as per the guide or code dialed.
- Receive the activation confirmation via SMS.
Mobile Data Plans
Mobile data is quite cheap in Ethiopia and a lot of people are able to buy it. A 1-day plan with 500 MB will cost you about 100 ETB, a 1-week plan with 3 GB will be approximately 500 ETB, and a 1-month plan with 10 GB will be around 1,000 ETB. Besides that, the public Wi-Fi facility can be accessed in hotels, cafes, and airports for people on the go.
Safety and Security Tips for Bulgarian Citizens
General Safety
- Avoid political protests or demonstrations.
- Make sure valuables and documents are kept safe.
- Stick to hygiene and food safety practices.
Emergency Contacts
- Police: 991
- Ambulance: 911
-
Fire Service: 981
- Kindly ensure you have the contact details of the Bulgarian Office in Addis Ababa at your fingertips.
Cultural Etiquette and Local Customs
- Greetings: People usually shake hands; if you want to show more respect, you can slightly bow to elders.
- Dress Modestly: Make sure your shoulders and knees are covered, mainly if you go to a religious place.
- Respect Religious Practices: Do not eat during fasting periods and be respectful of the sacral traditions.
- Photography: Never take photos of people or their ceremonies without asking for permission first.
Currency and Payments in Ethiopia
- Currency: Ethiopian Birr (ETB).
- Exchange: It can be done at banks, official bureaus, and major hotels.
- ATMs: There are some in major cities; most places allow card payments.
- It is better to have some small cash with you for local markets.
Transportation Options in Ethiopia
- Domestic Flights: A good way to travel between cities.
- Taxis and Ride-Sharing: It is better to decide on the fare before the trip.
- Buses and Minibuses: Low priced but may be too full for comfortable travel.
- Car Hire with Driver: It is a good choice for both safety and convenience.
Top Destinations to Explore in Ethiopia
Addis Ababa
National Museum, Holy Trinity Cathedral, Merkato Market.
Lalibela
Rock-hewn churches and UNESCO World Heritage site.
Gondar
Royal castles, Fasil Ghebbi complex.
Simien Mountains
Trekking, wildlife, and scenic landscapes.
Omo Valley
Tribal cultures, village visits, and cultural immersion.
Axum
Ancient ruins and St. Mary of Zion Church.
Plan a Safe, Smooth, and Unforgettable Trip to Ethiopia
The Ethiopia eVisa is a great way for Bulgarians to visit the country with minimum fuss and maximum convenience. Just go online and do your application well in advance of the trip, and make sure your passport is valid. Get any required vaccinations, buy a good travel insurance policy and get a local SIM card so that you stay connected. Abide safe practices, be polite, and discover the history, the nature, and the food of Ethiopia. It is a good idea to have copies of your documents with you while you are on a safe and unforgettable trip in 2025.
Ethiopia e-Visa FAQs for Bulgarian Travelers
These are the most frequently asked questions, with answers from the experts, that Bulgarian travelers might have in mind when planning to get an Ethiopia e-Visa:
Q1: How long should my passport be valid?
The passport should be valid for at least six months from the date of your intended entry.
Q2: Does the e-Visa copy I have to print have to be of some particular printer?
A black‐and‐white or a colour print is equally good. There are some instructions which say that it is always better to print the e-Visa.
Q3: What is the next step after I receive the e-Visa approval email?
You take the e-Visa approval along with your passport to the correct entry point in Ethiopia, present them to the immigration department, and get the visa stamp.
Q4: Is it possible to come to a land border with the e-Visa?
Normally, the answer is no – e-Visa can only be used by certain nationalities at Addis Ababa airport or some specified ports.
Q5: Is it possible to renew my e-Visa if I am in Ethiopia?
It is possible, but you should submit a request prior to the expiration of the visa and go to the immigration office in Addis Ababa.
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