ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS:  It is not advisable that U.S. citizens arrive without a visa to Ethiopia.  However, U.S. citizens may obtain a one-month or three month, single-entry tourist visa or a 10-day business visa upon arrival at the international airport in Ethiopia.  This service is only available at Bole International Airport, Ethiopia's main airport in Addis Ababa.  The visa fee is payable only in Ethiopian currency.  Because of possible confusion or delays, travelers should obtain a valid Ethiopian visa at the nearest Ethiopian Embassy prior to arrival, and must do so if entering across any land port of entry.  Both visas can be extended by applying at the Main Immigration Office in Addis Ababa.  If your entry visa has expired, you must obtain an extension by the time of departure.  Ethiopia charges a departure tax of US$ 20 that is now automatically added to airline ticket fare.

Household electronic devices, including DVD players, cameras, cell phones and computer printers, must be declared.  Laptop computers must be declared both upon arrival and departure.  Tape recorders require special customs permits.  Foreign currency must also be declared on arrival and departure. Prior to travel, individuals intending prolonged stays should direct their questions to the Ethiopian Embassy, 3506 International Dr., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008; telephone (202) 364-1200; fax (202) 587-0195.  Inquiries overseas may be made at the nearest Ethiopian embassy or consulate.

Visit the Embassy of Ethiopia web site at www.ethiopianembassy.org for the most current visa information.

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MEDICAL FACILITIES AND HEALTH INFORMATION: Health facilities are limited in Addis Ababa and completely inadequate outside the capital.  Although physicians are generally well trained, even the best hospitals in Addis Ababa suffer from inadequate facilities, antiquated equipment, and shortages of supplies (particularly medicines).  Emergency assistance is limited.  Travelers must carry their own supplies of prescription drugs and preventive medicines, as well as a doctor's note describing the medication. 
If the quantity of drugs exceeds that which would be expected for personal use, a permit from the Ministry of Health is required.

Malaria is prevalent in Ethiopia outside of the highland areas.  Travelers who become ill with a fever or flu-like illness while traveling in a malaria-risk area and up to one year after returning home should seek prompt medical attention and explain to the health care provider their travel history and which anti-malarials they have been taking. 

Information on vaccinations and other health precautions, such as safe food and water precautions and insect bite protection, may be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s hotline for international travelers at 1-877-FYI-TRIP (1-877-394-8747)

MEDICAL INSURANCE:  The Department of State strongly urges Americans to consult with their medical insurance company prior to traveling abroad to confirm whether their policy applies overseas and whether it will cover emergency expenses such as a medical evacuation.

REGISTRATION / EMBASSY LOCATION: Americans living or traveling outside of the U.S. are encouraged to register with the U.S. Embassy through the State Department’s travel registration website, https://travelregistration.state.gov.  Americans without Internet access may register directly with the U.S. Embassy.  By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy to contact them in case of emergency. 

The U.S. Embassy is located at Entoto Avenue, P.O. Box 1014, in Addis Ababa, telephone: 251-11-124-2424; emergency after-hours telephone: 251-11-124-2400; consular fax: 251-11-124-2435; website: http://addisababa.usembassy.gov.