Visa rules by passportLast checked October 16, 2026
Do citizens of Ethiopia need a visa for South Africa?
EthiopiaSouth AfricaVisa requiredNationals of Ethiopia need a visa for short stays in South Africa.
Diaspora: about 104,402 people born in Ethiopia live there (UN DESA 2024).
The visa route
Visitor's visa for tourism (section 11(1)), with Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) or port of entry visaCitizens of countries on South Africa's exemption list (for example EU states, the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, Brazil, Argentina) can visit without a visa, usually for up to 90 days and for some countries 30 days; they receive a section 11(1) visitor's visa on arrival. Travellers from visa-required countries must get a port of entry visa before travelling, either online through the new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system for arrivals at the four main airports, through the eVisa system where available, or at a South African mission. Visitor's visas cover tourism and visits for up to 90 days and do not allow work.Requirements and documentsAnother passport?
Rules depend on the passport you travel on. Visas or residence elsewhere can open easier entry.
Official sources
Rules change: check the official page before you travel.
General information from official sources, not legal advice.