Travel Authorisation Eritrea

Description

Swiss citizens require a visa to enter Eritrea, as the country does not currently offer visa-free or eVisa entry. All travelers must obtain a visa in advance, typically through the Embassy of Eritrea in Geneva or other Eritrean diplomatic missions. Tourist visas are generally issued for single entry and a maximum stay of 30 days. Our Travel Authorisation Eritrea service assists Swiss travelers in preparing the required documents, understanding health and customs rules, and avoiding costly delays or rejections.

Visa process and timing:
Tourist visa applications must be submitted at the Eritrean embassy with a completed form, passport-size photos, and supporting documents. Required attachments usually include a copy of the Swiss passport, confirmed flight details, and hotel booking or an invitation letter from a host in Eritrea. Processing times vary but typically take 7–15 working days, so early application is recommended.

Entry requirements for Swiss citizens include:

• A valid Swiss passport with at least six months’ validity from the date of entry

• An approved Eritrean tourist visa affixed in the passport

• Proof of onward or return ticket

• Hotel reservation or host invitation letter (sometimes legalized by Eritrean authorities)

• Sufficient funds for the duration of stay

Health and insurance requirements:

• A valid yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory if arriving from a country with risk of transmission

• Additional vaccinations recommended: hepatitis A, typhoid, and polio booster

• Malaria prophylaxis is advised, especially for travel outside Asmara

• COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted, but travelers should check for possible last-minute measures

• Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical care, evacuation, and repatriation is strongly recommended

Customs and border rules:

• Currency over US $10,000 (or equivalent) must be declared

• Import and export of local currency is prohibited

• Cameras, drones, and professional filming equipment may require prior permits

• Routine baggage checks are strict, and undeclared items can be confiscated

Stay limits and extensions:
Tourist visas are usually issued for 30 days. Extensions may be possible through the Immigration and Nationality Office in Asmara, but they require justification and approval is not guaranteed. Overstays can result in fines and complications when departing Eritrea.

Eritrea offers visitors striking landscapes, Red Sea coastline, and the historic capital of Asmara, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its modernist architecture. With our Travel Authorisation Eritrea service, Swiss travelers gain expert guidance, embassy support, and assurance that their visa and entry preparations are handled correctly.