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By Amanda Greenwood
Associate News Editor
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The U.S. State Department has updated its travel advisory for Ethiopia, urging Americans to reconsider travel amid ongoing concerns over security, crime, kidnapping and terrorism and new concerns over exit bans and communication disruptions in parts of the country.
Ethiopia's Level 3 Travel Advisory
Although Ethiopia was already classified under a Level 3 travel advisory—which urges travelers to "reconsider travel"—because of risks that include unrest, crime and armed conflict, U.S. officials have found additional concerns.
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These include periodic, nationwide communication shutdowns and the continued use of exit bans that can prevent travelers from leaving the country over unresolved immigration or legal issues.
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Security Conditions and Regional Risks
According to the Department of State, there is armed conflict and civil unrest in multiple parts of Ethiopia, with some regions designated "Do Not Travel" areas because of active fighting, kidnapping or terrorism risks.
These include the following areas:
- The Tigray region and the border with Eritrea
- Afar
- Amhara
- Gambella
- Benishangul Gumuz
- Specific areas within the Oromia region
- Sidama
- Parts of central Ethiopia
- South Ethiopia
- Southwest Ethiopia
- The border with Somalia, Sudan, South Sudan, and Kenya
While Addis Ababa is described as relatively secure, the department warns that conditions elsewhere could deteriorate rapidly and without warning.
Travelers are also advised that the Ethiopian government periodically imposes communication disruptions, including internet and mobile phone shutdowns, particularly during periods of unrest.
These outages can limit access to information and interfere with the U.S. Embassy's ability to reach American citizens during emergencies.
Legal Issues and Exit Bans
One of the department's central warnings is over exit bans, which can prevent travelers from leaving Ethiopia because of unresolved legal or immigration issues.
U.S. officials say that even unintentional violations, such as overstaying a visa, can result in steep immigration fines. Americans have previously been fined up to $100,000 in immigration fees, according to the U.S. Embassy in Ethiopia. They can face restrictions on departure until the penalties are paid.
Ethiopian law does not recognize dual citizenship, meaning Americans with Ethiopian nationality may be treated solely as Ethiopian citizens, which can limit or delay U.S. consular access. The embassy may also face delays in being notified when a dual national is detained or arrested.
Advice for Travelers Who Decide To Travel to Ethiopia
The State Department advises travelers to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive alerts and allow the U.S. Embassy to contact them in an emergency.
Travelers should also stay alert, monitor local media, safeguard their travel documents and prepare evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
Medical services are limited, and travelers are urged to review all health guidance, carry travel insurance and take extra precautions in high‑risk areas.
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