Quick Facts
Requirement
Visa on Arrival
VOA Fee
E-Visa
Available online
Ethiopia is easy for Nigerians — e-visa costs $52 and Addis Ababa (ADD) is a major Africa hub for connecting flights. Ethiopian Airlines flies direct Lagos (LOS)–Addis Ababa.
Key Warnings
- Apply for the e-visa before travel at evisa.gov.et — it takes the same amount of time as VOA and gives you a confirmed entry document before you board. No queuing at the VOA counter.
- Ethiopian Airlines direct Lagos-Addis Ababa flights are very popular and book out quickly during peak seasons (December, Easter, summer). Book flights early.
- Addis Ababa sits at 2,355 metres altitude. Some travellers experience mild altitude sickness in the first 24 hours — stay hydrated and rest on arrival.
Insider Tips
- Book the 90-day e-visa ($82) if combining Ethiopia with other African countries — more flexibility for the extra $30. Ideal for travellers also visiting Kenya, Tanzania, or Rwanda.
- Ethiopian Airlines' home hub at ADD makes it one of the cheapest transit points in Africa. Check fares from Lagos through Addis Ababa to other African or Asian destinations — they are often the best value.
- Lalibela (rock-hewn churches), the Simien Mountains, and the Danakil Depression are world-class sights. A 90-day visa gives enough time to see Ethiopia properly and recover from the altitude.
Step-by-Step Guide
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Apply for e-visa before travel (strongly recommended)
Visit evisa.gov.et at least 3–5 days before your flight. Complete the online form, upload your passport scan and photo, and pay the fee ($52 for 30 days, $82 for 90 days) by card. You receive an e-visa approval letter by email — download and print it or save it to your phone.
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Board your flight to Addis Ababa (ADD)
Ethiopian Airlines operates direct Lagos (LOS) to Addis Ababa (ADD) flights. The flight takes approximately 4.5 hours. You may also connect via other hubs. Have your e-visa approval letter ready for check-in staff who may ask for it.
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Land at Addis Ababa Bole International (ADD)
After landing, follow the Immigration signs. If you have an e-visa, proceed to the designated e-visa lane. If using VOA, go to the Visa on Arrival counter in the arrivals hall before passport control.
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Present your e-visa or pay for VOA
E-visa holders: show your approval letter (printed or on phone) along with your passport. The officer scans and stamps your entry. VOA applicants: pay $52 (30-day) or $82 (90-day) at the counter by cash USD or card, receive a stamp.
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Proceed through passport control
Join the passport control queue with your visa stamp or e-visa entry. Processing is straightforward — 2–3 minutes at the booth. Have your return ticket and hotel address ready if asked.
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Collect baggage and enjoy Ethiopia
Collect your luggage as normal. Your visa validity begins from the date of entry. Addis Ababa city centre is a 20–30 minute drive from ADD airport — taxis and ride-sharing apps are available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should Nigerians get an Ethiopia e-visa before travel or use visa on arrival?
Both options work, but the e-visa is strongly recommended. Apply at evisa.gov.et at least 3–5 days before travel. It costs the same as VOA ($52 for 30 days, $82 for 90 days) but gives you a confirmed entry document before you board. E-visa holders also use a faster dedicated lane at Addis Ababa airport, avoiding any VOA counter queue.
Can Nigerians get a 90-day Ethiopia visa?
Yes. The Ethiopia e-visa is available in both 30-day ($52 / ~₦84,240) and 90-day ($82 / ~₦132,840) options. If you are spending significant time in Ethiopia or combining it with other African countries, the 90-day visa offers much better value for just $30 more.
Are there direct flights from Lagos to Addis Ababa?
Yes. Ethiopian Airlines operates direct flights from Lagos (LOS) to Addis Ababa Bole International (ADD). Flight time is approximately 4.5 hours. Ethiopian Airlines is Africa's largest carrier and ADD is its main hub — connections from Addis Ababa to the rest of Africa, Asia, and Europe are excellent.
Is altitude sickness a concern for Nigerians visiting Addis Ababa?
Addis Ababa sits at approximately 2,355 metres above sea level — significantly higher than Lagos or any Nigerian city. Some travellers experience mild symptoms (headache, fatigue, shortness of breath) in the first 24–48 hours. Rest on arrival, drink plenty of water, and avoid alcohol. Symptoms typically resolve within a day. Consult a doctor before travel if you have heart or respiratory conditions.