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Eritrea visas

Eritrea visa on arrival

Citizens of Ethiopia and Sudan can get a visa on arrival. Travellers with confirmation of a pre-arranged visa can also qualify through a sponsor in Eritrea.

Ways to get a Eritrea visa on arrival

  1. Visa on arrival for Ethiopian citizens

    Visa on arrival

    Citizens of Ethiopia can get a visa on arrival.

    Stay
    30 days

    Passports that qualify (1)

  2. Visa on arrival for Sudanese citizens

    Visa on arrival

    Citizens of Sudan can get a visa on arrival.

    Stay
    Indefinite stay

    Passports that qualify (1)

  3. Pre-arranged visa collected on arrival

    Visa on arrival

    Travellers holding confirmation of a pre-arranged visa qualify if their sponsor in Eritrea submits the required request.

    1. Have your sponsor in Eritrea submit a request to the Eritrean Immigration Authority 48 hours before arrival.
    2. Hold confirmation of the pre-arranged visa to obtain the visa on arrival.

Who needs it

Travellers using this entry route must qualify by citizenship or hold confirmation of a pre-arranged visa with the required sponsor request.

What to bring

  • Confirmation of a pre-arranged visa, if using the sponsored route.

Good to know

  • For the pre-arranged route, your sponsor in Eritrea must submit a request to the Eritrean Immigration Authority 48 hours before arrival.
  • Fees and processing times are not specified.

Questions

Do I need a visa on arrival for Eritrea?

Travellers using this entry route must qualify by citizenship or hold confirmation of a pre-arranged visa with the required sponsor request.

What are the ways to get a visa on arrival for Eritrea?

There are 3 options: Visa on arrival for Ethiopian citizens (a visa at the border); Visa on arrival for Sudanese citizens (a visa at the border); Pre-arranged visa collected on arrival (a visa at the border).

How long can I stay on a Eritrea visa on arrival?

30 days for Ethiopian citizens; indefinite stay for Sudanese citizens. The stay for pre-arranged visas is not specified.

What documents do I need for a Eritrea visa on arrival?

Confirmation of a pre-arranged visa, if using the sponsored route..

What rules do I have to follow on a Eritrea visa on arrival?

For the pre-arranged route, your sponsor in Eritrea must submit a request to the Eritrean Immigration Authority 48 hours before arrival.

Does my passport change whether I need a visa on arrival for Eritrea?

Yes. Rules depend on the country that issued your passport. Open the Eritrea visa page and choose your passport for a plain answer.

Can a visa on arrival for Eritrea be refused?

Yes. Officials can refuse a visa or entry, even after you apply. Give true answers, bring the documents asked for, and keep proof of your onward trip and money.

Where do I check the latest Eritrea visa on arrival rules?

On Eritrea's official immigration or foreign ministry website, or at its embassy. Rules change, so check close to your trip.

Can I change my visa on arrival once I am in Eritrea?

Often you cannot switch visa type inside the country. Ask the immigration office before you travel if you might need to.

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