20 April 2014
The Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, a developing country in East Africa, is considered one of the oldest countries of the world and the cradle of civilization. Ethiopia played an important role in shaping civilization, art and technology. Tourists are attracted to this African country because of its people and its place in history. However, the U.S. Department of State cites the important travel document for an Ethiopia trip.
U.S. Passport
One of the most important travel documents for an Ethiopia trip is a valid U.S. passport. In order to enter the country, travelers’ passports have to be valid more than three months. In order to get a new passport or renew an existing document, visit the U.S. Department of State website for application information. People who live near colleges and university can go to international affairs departments because many campuses have passport applications onsite for international students and study abroad programs.
Visas
In order to take an Ethiopia trip, U.S. travelers must obtain a valid Ethiopian visa. The visa can be obtained at nearby Ethiopian embassies. However, if travelers don’t have this document upon arrival to the country, they can obtain visas at the Bole International Airport at Addis Ababa. U.S. citizens can get 1-month or 3-month, single-entry tourist visas. They can also apply for 10-day, single-entry business visas at the airport. Although Bole International is the only place in Ethiopia to obtain visas, extensions can be filed at the Main Immigration Office in Addis Ababa. If people don’t apply for extensions, they will be subject to fines.
Onward/Return Documents and Tickets
Onward/Return documents for an Ethiopia trip are needed to verify how long travelers plan to stay in the country and their departure date. Confirmation tickets should also be presented to further verify travel plans.
International Certificate of Vaccination for Yellow Fever
An important travel document for an Ethiopia trip includes an International Certificate of Vaccination for Yellow Fever. This document verifies that travelers have received their vaccination, especially if they are visiting an area infected with yellow fever in the next 5 days.