Can I use the Wise card in Ethiopia in 2024?
If you’re planning a trip to Ethiopia - or planning to move there to live, work or study - you’ve got an exciting time ahead. As the Ethiopian Birr (ETB) is the official currency in Ethiopia you’ll need to find convenient ways to spend in ETB while you’re there.
This guide walks through how to use the Wise card in Ethiopia for convenient and secure transactions, and offers some handy hints about making your money go further when you’re abroad.
Can I use the Wise card in Ethiopia?
If you are a resident of the UK and have a Wise card - or if you’re thinking of getting one - you’re probably wondering: can I use my Wise card to pay for things in Ethiopia?
The answer is yes, you can use the Wise card for everyday spending in Ethiopia. You can use the card to pay for things in Ethiopian Birrs with competitive exchange rates and low transaction fees. This guide walks through how you’ll be able to use your Wise card to help manage your travel spending.
How to order a Wise card
It’s easy to order your Wise card in the UK, and the whole process can be done from your phone or laptop. The most convenient option is to download the Wise app and get your Wise card that way. Here’s how:
Register a Wise Account in the Wise app, using your email address, Apple, Facebook or Google ID
Complete the verification step by snapping a photo of your ID and proof of address documents and uploading them
Add some money to your account in your preferred currency - there are various ways to pay, which you’ll see in the app
Navigate to the Cards tab and select the option to order your Wise card
Follow the prompts to add or confirm your shipping address, and your card will arrive in the mail
Can I get the Wise card in Ethiopia?
Unfortunately, the Wise card is not yet available for residents of Ethiopia. You may find that Revolut is a better option for residents; check whether Revolut is available below.
See alternatives to WiseWhat happens if I move to Ethiopia?
You can continue using your Wise card until it expires, but you will not be issued a new card as Wise does not offer the card in Ethiopia. You may be able to continue using other Wise services, such as money transfers.
An alternative to Wise in Ethiopia: Revolut
Different account plans
30+ currencies
Visa debit cardSpend in ETB when visiting Ethiopia ✅
Not available to residents of Ethiopia ❌
Trade crypto, stocks and commodities in your Revolut account 💰
Choose the Revolut account plan that suits your spending needs, including options with no monthly fees and others which have ongoing charges but unlock extra features. All accounts have a linked debit card - although the specific card you get may vary based on the account you pick.
Will my ATM card work in Ethiopia?
While your ATM card will work in Ethiopia it’s useful to know that cash is still the preferred payment method for many merchants.
You’re unlikely to be able to use your card in smaller stores and restaurants, so carrying cash is essential.
Carrying a low cost ATM card when you’re in Ethiopia is still a smart idea, so you can take out cash when you do find an ATM. You may also be able to use your card in larger hotels or restaurants, particularly in tourist areas.
However, keeping some cash on you at all times, as well as your card or cards is a smart plan, so you’re prepared no matter what happens.
How can I avoid ATM fees in Ethiopia?
Don’t pay more than you need to when using an ATM. Here are some hints to avoid unexpected ATM fees in Ethiopia:
Get a low cost ATM card which offers some free or cheap international withdrawals
Always pay in the local currency when you withdraw - this avoids additional charges and poor exchange rates offered by an ATM
Check if there’s a fixed cost per transaction for your ATM card. This might mean that making fewer, larger withdrawals is cheaper
Watch the ATM screen for warnings of extra fees the ATM operator may add - if there are going to be extra charges you may want to find an alternative terminal
Tips for saving on your travel budget for Ethiopia
Make the most of your money so you can do more on your trip to Ethiopia. Here are some travel budget tips:
Pay for your luggage when you book your flight - this is cheaper than at the airport
Don’t exchange currency at the airport or your hotel, as this is often the most expensive place
Always pay in the local currency
Keep a few different payment methods on you at any time, just in case you need a backup plan
Get a travel card which has good exchange rates and low or no cost ATM withdrawals overseas
What is the best currency to take to Ethiopia?
The Ethiopian Birr (ETB) is the official currency in Ethiopia.
You can exchange your GBP before you leave the UK if you’d like - but bear in mind that you won’t be able to spend GBP in Ethiopia. If you arrive with cash in your pocket you’ll need to exchange it locally, which may come with unexpected costs, and take time out of your trip unnecessarily.
A better plan for lots of people is to get a travel card for spending in ETB while in Ethiopia, with low costs and secure transactions.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Wise card will be OK for your trip to Ethiopia. Use your Wise card in Ethiopia to get low cost currency conversion and cash withdrawals, and to keep your budget down overall.
Unfortunately, the Wise card is not yet available for residents of Ethiopia, so if you're planning on relocating you may need to consider alternatives.
Using the Wise card when you’re spending overseas can mean you get a better exchange rate and lower overall costs. Explore your card’s features and fees carefully to make sure you can get the most of it when travelling abroad.
The delivery time for a travel card in the UK can vary a lot depending on the provider you pick. Get ready in advance so you’ve got your card in good time before your trip to Ethiopia.
The information in this article is correct as of 20/02/2024. We retrieved Wise's and Revolut's card coverage from the following sources: