So, you're thinking about moving to Ethiopia? Maybe you just got a job offer in Addis Ababa, you’re planning to join family, or you’re simply craving a life change in a country rich with history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. Whatever your reason you’re not alone, and you're in for an unforgettable experience.
Relocating to a new country can feel overwhelming at first (Where do I live? What kind of visa do I need? Will I find decent Wi-Fi?). Don’t worry—we’ve got your back. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know before packing your bags and booking that one-way ticket. From visa requirements to housing, cost of living, and how to find work, this is your go-to roadmap for settling in and thriving in Ethiopia.
1) Why Move to Ethiopia?
Ethiopia isn’t just another stop on the map it’s an experience. With a civilization that dates back thousands of years, it’s home to ancient cities like Axum, Lalibela, and Gondar. Addis Ababa, the bustling capital, serves as a diplomatic and economic hub, hosting the African Union and numerous international organizations. The cost of living is generally low compared to Western countries, and you’ll be welcomed by a deeply hospitable culture rooted in community and tradition.
And if you’re wondering whether Ethiopia is a good place to live, the answer is yes especially if you’re seeking purpose, opportunity, and a slower, more connected lifestyle. For a more detailed look at what life is really like, check out our blog on whether Ethiopia is a good country to invest in and live.
2) Does Ethiopia Give Citizenship to Foreigners?
Before arriving, you’ll need to sort out your visa based on your purpose of stay. Most long-term expats apply for:
- A work visa, which requires employer sponsorship.
- A business visa if you plan to invest or start a business.
- A residence visa for those joining family or retiring.
- A student visa if you're pursuing education or research.
Always check with your nearest Ethiopian embassy or the Ethiopian Immigration Services for the latest updates, as policies may change. Once in the country, be sure to apply for your residence permit within 30 days, and if you're working, a work permit will also be necessary.
Regarding citizenship Ethiopia does not currently offer citizenship to foreigners via naturalization. However, foreign nationals of Ethiopian origin can apply for a Yellow Card, which grants many of the same rights as citizenship, including owning property and conducting business. check out the blog on How Ethiopian Diasporas Can Obtain a Yellow Card 2025
3) Cost of Living in Ethiopia
The cost of living in Ethiopia is one of the most attractive factors for expats and returnees. Housing is usually the largest expense, especially in Addis Ababa where monthly rents can range from $350 to $1,500+ depending on location, furnishing, and security. Groceries and transport are affordable, but imported goods tend to be expensive due to high taxes.
Most transactions are cash-based, and credit card usage is limited to major hotels and international businesses. Bringing some U.S. dollars for exchange is smart, and opening a local bank account with Dashen Bank, Commercial Bank of Ethiopia, or Awash Bank will make everyday payments more convenient.
4) Finding a Place to Live
Whether you’re looking for a short-term or long-term Apartment for Rent, or a property to buy, Ethiopia offers a growing and diverse real estate market. Most landlords require 3 to 6 months’ rent in advance, and a security deposit equal to one month’s rent is typically requested, which is refunded at the end of the lease if the property is undamaged.
Short-term furnished apartments are available in neighborhoods like Bole, Kazanchis, and Old Airport, which are popular among expats. For those planning a longer stay, you can also explore condominiums for rent and houses for rent or purchase. And here’s exciting news for foreign buyers: As of 2025, foreigners can now legally purchase new residential properties in Ethiopia, provided they meet the minimum investment threshold of $150,000 USD. This marks a major shift in property law and opens up new opportunities for the diaspora and international investors.
👉 Read the full update on Ethiopia’s new foreign homeownership law here.
As always, working with a licensed real estate agency like Live Ethio helps ensure a safe and smooth process, from legal verification to property handover.
5) Healthcare, Insurance & Safety
Healthcare in Ethiopia is improving, especially in Addis Ababa. Private hospitals such as St. Gabriel, Korean Hospital, and Hayat Hospital offer decent care for minor to moderate conditions. For major treatments, many expats prefer to travel abroad. It’s highly recommended to have international health insurance that includes air evacuation, just in case.
Medications are widely available, though some prescriptions may be hard to find. It’s also wise to get third-party liability car insurance if you plan to drive, and many expats choose to insure personal belongings as well.
6) Internet, Communication & Transportation
Amharic is the national language, but English is widely spoken especially in business, education, and among the younger generation. When it comes to mobile connectivity, Ethio Telecom has long been the dominant provider, but Safaricom Ethiopia has recently entered the market, offering mobile services, data, and mobile money options like M-PESA, which is gradually rolling out in urban areas.
To get a SIM card, you'll need a local ID or residence permit for registration, though tourists can get temporary SIMs with their passport. Internet speeds have improved over the years, especially in Addis Ababa, but occasional outages still occur. Mobile data is often more reliable than home broadband.
For getting around, Addis offers public minibuses, shared taxis, and safer, more convenient ride-hailing apps like RIDE and Feres, which are widely used by locals and expats alike.
7) Finding a Job in Ethiopia
If you’re planning to work in Ethiopia, there are growing opportunities in sectors like education, international NGOs, construction, real estate, and tech. It helps to have local connections or to apply for roles that require international expertise.
For detailed job-hunting tips, visit our blogs:
8) Culture, Customs, and Community
Ethiopia offers an incredibly rich and diverse culture, shaped by religion, history, and tradition. You’ll quickly encounter Ethiopian time (which starts the day at 6 AM), the unique Ge’ez calendar (about 7 years behind the Western calendar), and the rhythm of local festivals like Timket and Meskel.
Food is a big part of social life, so get ready for delicious communal meals featuring injera, doro wat, and kitfo. Respect for elders and hospitality are deeply valued, and while cultural differences exist, most expats find themselves welcomed with open arms.
Religious customs are also an important part of daily life. The majority of Ethiopians are Ethiopian Orthodox, with significant Muslim and Protestant communities. Understanding and respecting these traditions will help you feel at home more quickly.
Relocating to Ethiopia is not just a move it’s a mindset shift. While things might work a little differently than what you're used to, many expats and diaspora members find that Ethiopia offers a sense of meaning, community, and discovery that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Looking for a Place to Live in Addis Ababa Ethiopia ?
Whether you’re searching for a furnished apartment, a family house, or an investment opportunity, Live Ethio Real Estate is here to help. With years of experience working with expats, embassies, and diaspora clients, we specialize in finding secure, verified properties across Addis Ababa.
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📞 Contact us directly at +251974299472 / +251947002233 for personalized support.