Ethiopia Plans Free Transit Visa

Ethiopia is preparing to introduce a free transit visa program aimed at international travelers passing through the country, in a move designed to attract more than 15 million passengers annually.

The initiative will allow eligible travelers flying with Ethiopian Airlines to stay in the country for periods ranging from 24 hours to seven days. The program is intended to encourage visitors to explore local tourist attractions instead of remaining inside airport terminals during layovers.

Officials say the plan is part of a broader strategy to position Ethiopia as a competitive global tourism hub. State Minister Sileshi Girma noted that the initiative is expected to significantly enhance the country’s appeal to international travelers.

The program is being developed through coordination between the Ministry of Tourism, Ethiopian Airlines, and the Immigration and Citizenship Services authority. Authorities aim to boost visitor numbers, stimulate tourism activity, and support economic growth by encouraging transit passengers to extend their stay, even briefly.

If successfully implemented, the policy could transform layovers into short tourism experiences, strengthening Ethiopia’s position within the global travel and aviation sector.