Travelers planning a trip to Namibia should understand the country’s visa and entry rules before they arrive. Many nationalities, such as Germany, South Africa, the United Kingdom, and several other European Union countries, can enter Namibia without a visa for stays of up to 90 days for tourism.
People from countries not on the visa-exempt list must get a tourist visa before they travel. This can be done at the nearest Namibian embassy or consulate in their home country.
When arriving in Namibia, all visitors must show a valid passport that will remain valid for at least six months after their planned departure date. The passport must also have at least two blank pages for immigration stamps. Border officials may also ask for proof of return or onward travel, proof of where you will be staying, and evidence that you have enough money to pay for your trip.
Children under 18 who are traveling to Namibia must carry an unabridged birth certificate. If they are not traveling with both parents, they also need an affidavit of consent from the absent parent or parents. These rules are part of Namibia’s efforts to prevent child trafficking, so the required papers should be arranged well in advance.
Travelers coming from countries where yellow fever is present must show a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate. It is a good idea to check for any updates to these requirements before your trip, as rules may change.
Namibia has introduced an e-visa system to make applications easier, but it is not yet available for all nationalities. Those who can use it may find it a faster and more convenient way to get their visa.
Visitors arriving through major entry points such as Hosea Kutako International Airport in Windhoek, or by road from South Africa, Angola, or Botswana, will generally find immigration services well organized. However, during busy travel seasons, there may be some delays, so it is best to allow extra time for border formalities.
By knowing and preparing for these requirements before traveling, visitors can enjoy a smoother and less stressful start to their trip in Namibia.
