Eritrea Visa RequirementsFor Canada passport holders
Canadian citizens require a visa to visit Eritrea, costing approximately $70 USD for a 30-day stay. The Government of Canada advises against non-essential travel to Eritrea.
Canada passport holders require a visa to enter Eritrea.
Apply at the Eritrean embassy in Washington D.C. as there is no Eritrean embassy in Canada. Submit a completed application, passport photos, letter of invitation or hotel confirmation, and a detailed itinerary. Note that a travel permit (tourist card) is also required once in-country and must be arranged before departure.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Canada to Eritrea: What You Need to Know
Eritrea is one of the world's most isolated countries, with a restrictive government that limits press freedom and independent movement. The security situation near the Ethiopian and Sudanese borders is volatile. Canada advises against non-essential travel due to unpredictable security and limited consular assistance.
Practical Tips
Photography of government buildings, military installations, and infrastructure is strictly prohibited and can result in detention. Register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad. The Eritrean nakfa (ERN) is the currency; forex exchanges are strictly controlled. Internet access is extremely limited.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do Canadians apply for an Eritrea visa?
Canadians must apply at the Eritrean Embassy in Washington D.C. as there is no Eritrean embassy in Canada. The process requires a completed application form, photos, letter of invitation or hotel confirmation, and a detailed itinerary. A travel permit is also required once in-country and must be arranged before arrival.
What is the travel advisory for Eritrea for Canadians?
The Government of Canada advises against non-essential travel to Eritrea due to the unpredictable security situation, limited consular assistance, restrictive government policies, and poor infrastructure. Canadians have faced travel restrictions and arbitrary detention in Eritrea.
Can Canadians freely move around Eritrea?
No. Movement within Eritrea is highly restricted. Travelers must obtain a travel permit (tourist card) to visit areas outside Asmara, and travel to some regions is completely prohibited. Photography of government buildings, military sites, and infrastructure is banned.
What currency is used in Eritrea?
The Eritrean nakfa (ERN) is the currency. Foreign exchange is tightly controlled, and only official exchange bureaus may be used. Importing or exporting nakfa is prohibited. Credit cards are not accepted virtually anywhere.