Welcome to Namibia, one of the world’s newest countries and one of its least densely populated. With its dramatic and varied topography, Atlantic coastline, and fascinating wildlife, it’s an ideal vacation location for travelers seeking something different.
To support a well-established tourism industry, the Namibian government has made entry into the country as hassle-free as possible. Many nationalities do not require visas for shorter visits, including citizens of most southern Africa countries, many European nations, the USA, UK, Australia, and New Zealand. Visitors who do require a visa can generally apply for one on arrival or in advance through Namibian consulates or the Ministry of Home Affairs.
What You Need to Know About Visas in Namibia
Citizens of over 50 countries can enter Namibia for up to 90 days without a tourist visa, with the exception of employment purposes. For a complete listing of visa-exempt countries, refer to the helpful visa page of the Namibian Ministry of Home Affairs.
Upon arrival in Namibia, you will receive a Visitor’s Entry Permit stamped into your passport. The maximum possible validity is 90 days, but these permits are often issued for shorter periods. It’s essential to ensure that the date entered into your passport matches your intended duration of stay.
Travelers from non-visa-exempt countries can apply for a visa on arrival at Hosea Kutako International Airport in Windhoek for approximately US$50 (valid for three months). Alternatively, you may apply for a visa through the Namibian embassy in your home country—allow up to two weeks for processing. The Ministry of Home Affairs also provides downloadable visa application forms.
Regardless of your visa status, ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date in Namibia, with at least three blank endorsement pages.
Traveling to Namibia with Children
Namibia is a fun family travel destination. If you are traveling with children under 18, you are required to carry a certified copy of each child’s original birth certificate. If traveling with only one parent, you must also have certified consent from the other parent or proof of sole custody.
Families with adopted children should have certified copies of adoption certificates or other legal evidence of guardianship. These regulations have been established to prevent child trafficking, and document checks are conducted with regularity.
Is It Possible to Extend Your Stay in Namibia?
If Namibia’s fresh air, soaring dunes, and clear skies capture your heart, you may wish to extend your stay. You can apply for a visa extension (approximately US$40) at the Ministry of Home Affairs in Windhoek, as long as you remain within the 90-day maximum stay.
However, keep in mind that extension requests are not routinely granted. Thus, it’s advisable to plan your maximum desired stay before entering the country.
Can I Get a Visa to Work in Namibia?
Namibia does not currently offer working holiday visas. Applications for work visas, allowing short-term employment of up to six months, and employment permits for longer-term employment of more than six months, should be made through the Ministry of Home Affairs well in advance of your planned arrival. However, Namibia does offer a Digital Nomad Visa for stays of up to six months.
This article was first published on Sep 10, 2022, and updated on Oct 26, 2023.
