South Africa visa for Ethiopian citizens

Ethiopian passport holders planning a trip to South Africa will find the e-visa application process straightforward, covering tourist, business, and transit categories. While typical tourist e-visas allow stays for up to 90 days, with an application fee often around $75, direct flights from Addis Ababa to OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg underscore the significant historical and contemporary links between these two African nations. Practical considerations include exchanging Ethiopian Birr for South African Rand, and being mindful of the roughly five-hour time difference when traveling, particularly during peak seasons. Applying for your e-visa in advance is always recommended for a seamless journey to explore the diverse landscapes of the Rainbow Nation.

eVisa· verified 2026-05-27
South Africa eVisa
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Entry requirements

Passport validity
1+ months
Blank pages
1+
Health insurance
Not required
Yellow fever cert.
Required
Biometrics
Required

Visa options

TouristVisitor's Visa (Less than 90 days)
90dvalid 3mo
Apply
OtherVisitor's Visa (more than 90 days)
Apply
WorkVisitor's Visa (Section 11(2) – Short Term Work)
90dvalid 3mo
Apply
Digital NomadVisitor's Visa (Remote Work)
365dvalid 1y
Apply
FamilyVisitor's Visa (Spousal) – Section 11(6)
Apply
TransitTransit Visa
Apply
StudentStudy Visa
multiple-entry
Apply
OtherTreaty Visa
Apply
FamilyRelative’s Visa
multiple-entry
Apply
MedicalMedical Visa
90dvalid 3mo
Apply
RetirementRetired Person’s Visa
multiple-entry
Apply
InvestorBusiness Visa
multiple-entry
Apply
WorkGeneral Work Visa
multiple-entry
Apply
WorkIntra-Company Transfer Work Visa
multiple-entry
Apply
WorkCritical Skills Work Visa
multiple-entry
Apply
WorkCorporate Visa
multiple-entry
Apply
Working HolidayExchange Visa
365dmultiple-entryvalid 1y
Apply
OtherPermanent Residence Permit
0dmultiple-entryvalid 0d
Apply
TouristPort of Entry Visa (Visa-required nationals)
90dvalid 3mo
Apply
TouristVisa Exemption (Port of Entry admission, 90 days)
90d$0valid 0d
TouristVisa Exemption (Port of Entry admission, 30 days)
30d$0valid 0d
TouristSouth Africa eVisa
90dvalid 3mo
Apply
TouristVisitor's Visa (Tourism or Business)
90dvalid 3mo
Apply
MedicalVisa for people requiring medical attention
Apply
OtherVisas for working in the entertainment industry
Apply
BusinessVisas for attending a conference
Apply
OtherVisas for compliance with Treaty conditions
Apply
WorkVisas for crew (maritime)
Apply
Working HolidayVisas for cultural/economic/social exchange programmes
Apply
TransitTransit visas (foreigners en route to the neighbouring countries)
Apply
BusinessBusiness Visa
Apply
WorkGeneral Work Visa
Apply
WorkCritical Skills Work Visa
Apply
WorkIntra-company Transfer Work Visa
Apply
WorkCorporate Visas
Apply
StudentStudy Visas
Apply
Working HolidayExchange Visas
Apply
TouristSouth African visitors' visas
90dvalid 3mo
Apply
MedicalVisas for medical treatment
Apply
RetirementRetired person's visas
Apply
FamilyRelative's visa
Apply

eVisa holders must arrive via Cape Town or Johannesburg.

Sources