Ethiopia

The security situation in Ethiopia is dynamic and can deteriorate without warning. Travellers should monitor local media and follow the advice of local authorities.

The Amhara militia (Fano) is active in several areas of Amhara Regional State. The risk of civil unrest and armed conflict is higher in some areas, particularly in Amhara, Oromia, Benishangul-Gumuz, Somali and Gambela Regional States, and along international borders, except the border shared with Djibouti. We continue to advise against travel to these areas due to the volatile security situation. 

Low-level political and ethnic disputes are common across many parts of Ethiopia, including along intra-regional borders. Disputes can turn violent. While foreigners have not been targeted, you should remain alert to the risk.

Security measures, including curfews and movement restrictions, may be implemented in Ethiopia at short notice. Roads can be closed at any time and communications may be disrupted or unreliable. Restrictions may change rapidly and without warning and can impact the Embassy's ability to provide consular support to Australians.

International events and political changes can trigger demonstrations. Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent. Avoid crowds or protests.

If, despite our advice, you travel to 'Do Not Travel' areas of Ethiopia, you should:

• ensure that your travel documents are up to date and readily accessible to you
• have a contingency plan in place if you need to leave quickly
• monitor local media for information on the evolving situation
• expect a heightened security presence 
• stop at all checkpoints and roadblocks
• you should comply with the law, including those relating to carrying identification documents at all times, foreign currency limits and possession of weapons
• avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• follow the instructions of local authorities 

Terrorism is a threat worldwide. Reports say terrorists are planning attacks against a range of targets in Ethiopia. These include commercial and public places that foreigners visit.

Terrorists may use events such as international meetings or days of national or religious significance to mount attacks. An attack could happen at any time. You’re strongly encouraged to maintain a high level of vigilance.

Possible targets for terror attacks include:

• clubs, hotels, resorts, restaurants and bars
• schools, places of worship, embassies and government buildings
• landmarks, tourist areas, markets, shopping centres and malls
• political and sporting events
• outdoor recreation events and public gatherings, including large religious festivals and concerts

Terrorists also target transport including:

• aircraft and airports
• petrol stations
• buses and bus terminals
• railways and other transport infrastructure

Some local hotels have received bomb threats in the past.

To protect yourself from terrorism:

• avoid the kinds of public places known to be terrorist targets
• have an exit plan if there's a security incident
• be alert in the lead up to, and on days of, national or religious significance
• monitor the news for any emerging threats
• take official warnings seriously
• follow instructions from local authorities

If there's an attack, leave the affected area immediately if it's safe to.

More information:

• Terrorism

Kidnapping occurs across the world with political, ideological, and criminal motives. Foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped while travelling overseas. Kidnapping can occur anywhere, anytime, including in destinations that are usually considered lower risk.

Several active terrorist and militia groups have the intent and capability to kidnap foreigners. The threat of kidnapping is particularly high in Oromia and southern parts of Somali Regional State. Kidnapping is also a risk near the border areas with Kenya, Somalia and South Sudan.

If despite our advice you travel to an area with a high risk of kidnapping, you should be aware that our ability to provide consular assistance in these destinations is limited.

To reduce the risk of kidnapping:

• always be alert to your personal security and surroundings
• get professional security advice for travel in locations with a heightened kidnap risk
• check your accommodation has appropriate security measures
• avoid isolated locations, particularly when travelling alone
• notify family or friends of planned travel and share your location
• avoid talking about your money or business affairs
• only use ATMs in public places and during daylight hours
• avoid giving personal details to strangers online or over the phone

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers. Ransom payments to kidnappers have funded further terrorist attacks and criminal activity. Paying a ransom to terrorist groups will likely break Australian counter-terrorism financing laws.

More information:

• Kidnapping

Cross-border violence is common and can occur at any time. 

Do not travel to the following border areas of Ethiopia due to the risk of terrorism, kidnapping, armed conflict, violent crime, and landmines:

• Within 10km of the border with Eritrea
• Within 20km of the border with Sudan
• Within 10km of the border with South Sudan 
• Withing 10km of the border with Kenya 
• Within 100km of the border with Somalia (excluding the Fafan Zone of Somali Regional State, which is within 40km).

Unprovoked violent assault can occur, including in popular tourist areas in Addis Ababa. Avoid walking at night.

If you're a victim of violent crime, especially rape, visit a doctor as soon as possible as HIV/AIDS is widespread.

Keep an eye on local information sources about crime. Always be aware of your surroundings and pay close attention to your belongings.

Petty crime is increasingly common, particularly in Addis Ababa. Foreigners are often targeted. Petty crime includes:

• pickpocketing
• bag snatching
• jewellery theft
• thefts from vehicles stopped at traffic lights

Petty crimes often take place in crowded areas, particularly in Addis Ababa, including:

• the Mercato open air market
• tourist spots including areas around Bole, Piazza and Meskel Square 

These crimes are often carried out by groups of children. Some robbery victims have been assaulted.

Keep your car windows and doors closed and locked at all times, including when moving.

Don’t leave valuables in your car.

Highway robberies and armed carjackings have been reported outside the main urban centres.

Cyber security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:  

• Cyber security when travelling overseas 

Ethiopia experiences natural disasters and severe weather, including drought, flooding and plagues of locusts.

Ethiopia is in an active earthquake and volcanic zone.

If a natural disaster occurs:

• keep your passport in a safe, waterproof place
• monitor local media and other sources such as the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
• follow the advice of local authorities
• keep in contact with friends and family

Drought

Some areas of Ethiopia experience severe drought. Local services may be affected. Drinking water and basic food may be hard to find. 

Flooding

Some areas of Ethiopia experience severe flooding. Flash flooding may occur in the rainy season from July to September. Some roads can't be used.

If you travel to Ethiopia, check your travel insurance. If you plan to travel to ‘Do not travel’ parts of Ethiopia, you'll likely need a specialised insurance policy that covers travel to high-risk destinations. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care. 

Confirm:

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

More information:

• General health advice

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Ethiopia. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription and a letter from your doctor saying:

• what the medications are
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

More information:

• Medication

Insect-borne diseases

Yellow fever is widespread in Ethiopia. Yellow fever is a potentially fatal virus spread by mosquitoes. It's prevented by vaccination. Get vaccinated before you travel and carry your vaccination card. Some countries require you to present your Yellow Fever vaccination card if you have travelled in Ethiopia.

Malaria is found in Ethiopia except for the capital Addis Ababa and areas above 2000m. Chloroquine-resistant strains are reported in some areas. Consider taking medication to prevent chloroquine-resistant malaria.

Other insect-borne diseases include:

• dengue
• chikungunya
• Zika virus
• leishmaniasis
• filariasis
• African sleeping sickness

To protect yourself from disease:

• ensure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Get medical advice if you develop a fever, muscle pain, rash or bad headache.

HIV/AIDS

HIV/AIDS is widespread. Take precautions if taking part in activities that put you at risk of infection.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases are also common. These include:

• cholera
• typhoid
• hepatitis
• measles
• tuberculosis
• brucellosis
• meningitis
• COVID-19

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

Bilharzia (schistosomiasis) and other waterborne diseases are spread through freshwater lakes and rivers.

• do not swim in fresh water
• avoid wading through flood waters and waterways

To protect yourself from food and water borne illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

More information:

• Infectious diseases

Polio

Ethiopia is still vulnerable to international spread of the wild poliovirus.

Stay up to date with recommended polio vaccinations, including a booster dose, through the Australian Immunisation Handbook.

Altitude sickness

The altitude in the mountain regions of Ethiopia, including in the capital city of Addis Ababa, can cause problems. People with lung, heart or chest problems should take extra care. Even if you're healthy, you can still be affected.

Symptoms of altitude sickness include:

• headache
• dizziness
• vomiting
• coordination problems

In severe cases, fluid can build up in your lungs, brain or both, which can be fatal.

To protect yourself from altitude sickness:

• ascend slowly, especially above an altitude of 2500m
• rest when needed and don't push your body
• avoid alcohol and cigarettes

If you're affected by severe altitude sickness, get to lower ground as soon as possible.

Medical facilities

Health facilities are limited in Addis Ababa and inadequate in rural areas.

Due to major renovations at the Black Lion Hospital in Addis Ababa, emergency services may be severely limited.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you'll need to be moved to a place with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter. But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Death penalty

Ethiopia applies the death penalty for serious offences, including aggravated murder.

Drugs

Penalties for drug offences are severe. They include long jail sentences and heavy fines.

More information:

• Carrying or using drugs

Other laws

Family law in Ethiopia can differ a lot from Australian law. This includes divorce, child custody and child support. Laws affecting business activities can also be very different.

Get professional advice on your rights and responsibilities if you're engaging in business or family-related matters.

You should comply with the law, including on carrying identification documents at all times, possession of foreign currency and possession of weapons. You should avoid confrontation and follow the instructions of the authorities.

If you're in an accident, it's illegal to move your vehicle before a police officer arrives.

If you’re arrested the Government of Ethiopia may not tell the Australian Government. Authorities may not permit Australian Embassy staff to visit you.

Same-sex sexual acts are illegal in Ethiopia. If found guilty you could face up to 15 years imprisonment. 

In Ethiopia, it's also illegal to:

• buy or remove Ethiopian antiquities, animal skins or other cultural artefacts, including some Ethiopian crosses, without a permit
• export precious stones and minerals beyond prescribed limits for personal use — check with local authorities before you buy
• own ivory
• give money to or buy something from a beggar or vendor in traffic

It's illegal to take photos:

• near military zones or of military personnel
• near the Presidential Palace in Addis Ababa
• where signs clearly prohibit photography

More information:

• Advice for LGBTQIA+ travellers

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

More information:

• staying within the law and respecting customs

Ethiopia doesn't recognise dual nationality.

Despite this, if you’re of Ethiopian heritage and you’re arrested, the Government of Ethiopia may not tell the Australian Government. Authorities may not permit Australian Embassy staff to visit you.

Always travel on your Australian passport.

More information:

• Dual nationals

Standards of behaviour and dress are conservative in Ethiopia. Take care not to offend.

If in doubt, seek local advice.

Time and calendar differences

The Julian calendar is used in Orthodox Christian areas in the highlands. Some Ethiopians set their clocks differently from standard practice elsewhere. This leads to significant time differences.

Ethiopian Airlines and other large international airlines use standard international time.

To avoid confusion, always check bookings and appointments.

You must have a visa to enter Ethiopia. Visa applications must be made online. 

Visa conditions

Check your visa expiration date. If you stay beyond the expiry date, you will have to pay a daily fine. You will not be allowed to leave Ethiopia until you pay the immigration fines, which you must pay using USD cash. This also applies if your resident ID has expired. 

Yellow fever vaccination

You may need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Ethiopia. Some airlines may want to see one when you leave. You should carry a valid Yellow Fiver International Vaccination Certificate.

Find out about returning to Australia after exposure to yellow fever.

More information:

• Countries with a risk of yellow fever

Banned or restricted items

Satellite phones, drones and binoculars cannot be imported to Ethiopia without prior approval. Seek advice from your travel provider on permissions required. Unapproved items may be confiscated by authorities.

There are no guidelines covering the use of drones in Ethiopia. They may be confiscated at airports or at the border. Seek and carry written permission from the Ethiopian Government before using drones.

Validity

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government doesn't set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport.

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service.
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate.

Passport with X gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

More information:  

• LGBTQIA+ travellers 

The official currency is the Ethiopian Birr (ETB).

Currency controls are strict in Ethiopia. If you have more than USD3,000 or the same amount in another foreign currency, you must declare it when you arrive and depart. You may be required to show receipts to demonstrate expenditure. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash. You are unable to depart Ethiopia with more than ETB2,000 in cash. 

If you arrive or depart with more than USD3,000, the entire amount in your possession can be seized by authorities.

It's difficult to exchange Australian dollars in Ethiopia. However, most banks exchange US dollars.

There are ATMs in major Ethiopian cities. ATMs can't always be used for cash advances and can run out of cash unexpectedly. Always travel with ETB.

Credit cards are accepted at major hotels and an increasing number of other outlets, mostly in Addis Ababa. Poor power supply and internet outages may affect their reliable operation.  Consider carrying a backup supply of cash.  

Check with your bank to make sure your card will work in Ethiopia.

Landmines

Landmines are a hazard in the border areas with Eritrea, Sudan and Somalia. If you travel near these borders despite our advice, stick to well-travelled roads. See Safety

Driving permit

If you want to drive in Ethiopia, you can apply to convert a valid Australian licence to a local one. It's an Ethiopian Government requirement that your Australian license first be authenticated by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade in Australia and then by the Australian Embassy in Ethiopia for it to be recognised. See the Ethiopian Embassy for more information.

International driving permits aren't recognised in Ethiopia.

Road travel

Driving in Ethiopia can be dangerous because of:

• poor road conditions
• poorly maintained vehicles
• local driving practices
• poor lighting
• people and animals, particularly camels, wandering on roads

Security forces sometimes close roads, including highways. Closures can occur without notice.

Due to the dynamic security situation, we advise against road travel outside major cities in Ethiopia.

Car accidents

Drivers involved in car accidents can face severe punishments, including prison and fines.

If you're in a car accident, it's illegal to move your vehicle before a police officer arrives. However, if you feel unsafe, leave the area immediately and report to the nearest police station.

If you plan to drive in Ethiopia:

• become familiar with local traffic laws and practices before driving
• drive legally
• don't drink and drive
• keep your car windows and doors closed and locked at all times, including when moving
• avoid driving at night, where possible

If you're stopped by police, follow their instructions.

If rocks are thrown at your car, leave the area as quickly and safely as possible.

To protect yourself when travelling outside Addis Ababa:

• get local advice on road and security conditions along your planned route before you travel
• leave details of your travel itinerary with a reliable person
• travel in a group where possible
• carry a well-stocked medical pack
• consider carrying a satellite phone — regular telephones, including the mobile network, are unreliable

More information:

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Check with your insurer whether your policy covers you when using a motorbike or similar vehicle. Your policy may not cover accidents that occur while using these vehicles.

Always wear a helmet. Make sure your passenger does too.

Taxis

Only use registered taxis. Arrange these through your hotel or an app-based booking service such as RIDE or Feres. Avoid flagging down taxis in the street.

Consider sitting in the back seat rather than the front.

Not all taxis are metered. Ensure the meter is on or agree on the fare before you leave.

Public transport

Ethiopia has bus and limited rail services. However, safety standards aren't the same as in Australia. Buses have been attacked outside Addis Ababa.

Petty crime occurs on public transport. Take care of your belongings when travelling on buses and trains.

More information:

• Transport and getting around safely

Air travel

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Ethiopia's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

• Air travel

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer
• airline

Fire and rescue services

Call 991.

Medical emergencies

Call 991 or go to the hospital.

Police

Call 991 or go to the local police station.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your travel insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Our ability to provide consular assistance in the 'Do not travel' areas of Ethiopia is extremely limited. If you need urgent consular assistance call the Consular Emergency Centre (CEC) on +61 2 6261 3305 or email Consular.AddisAbaba@dfat.gov.au. 

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

Australian Embassy, Addis Ababa

Turkish compound (off Cape Verde street)
Bole Subcity, Woreda 3
PO Box 3715
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Phone: +251 11 6672651 / 6672652 / 6672693 / 6672694

Email: Consular.AddisAbaba@dfat.gov.au

Website: ethiopia.embassy.gov.au

Facebook: @AusEmb.ET

X (Twitter): @AusEmbET

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre (CEC) on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia