Is a visa required to visit Namibia?

Welcome to Namibia, one of the newest countries in the world and among the least populated.

With its stunning landscapes, Atlantic beaches, intriguing wildlife, and ancient desert, it’s a perfect getaway for travelers looking for something unique.

To foster a thriving tourism sector, the Namibian government has streamlined the entry process for visitors.

Citizens from many countries, including most southern African nations, various European countries, the USA, UK, Australia, and New Zealand, do not need visas for short visits. Those who do require a visa can usually obtain one upon arrival or in advance through Namibian consulates or the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Continue reading to learn about Namibia’s visa regulations, including details on visa types, costs, and the application process.

Essential information regarding visas in Namibia

Citizens from over 50 nations can visit Namibia for up to 90 days without a tourist visa, or for nearly any purpose other than employment. For a full list of visa-exempt countries and general visa details, refer to the Namibian Ministry of Home Affairs' informative visa page and the website for the Namibian High Commission in the UK.

Upon arrival in Namibia, you'll receive a complimentary Visitor's Entry Permit stamped in your passport. While it can be valid for up to 90 days, these permits are frequently issued for shorter durations. Ensure that the date marked in your passport aligns with your intended stay before exiting the immigration area.

Travelers from countries not listed as visa-exempt can obtain a visa on arrival (approximately US$50 for a single-entry visa valid for three months) at Hosea Kutako International Airport in Windhoek.

Alternatively, you can submit a visa application at the Namibian embassy in your home country—allow up to two weeks for processing. The Namibia Ministry of Home Affairs website offers 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 and contains at least three blank endorsement pages.

Visiting Namibia with children

Namibia is an exciting destination for family travel. When traveling with children under 18, it's essential to have a certified copy of each child’s original birth certificate. If a child is traveling with only one parent, you must also present certified consent from the other parent or proof of sole custody.

Families with adopted children should bring certified copies of adoption certificates or other legal documents proving guardianship. These rules have been implemented in Namibia and across southern Africa to combat child trafficking, and document checks are conducted regularly.

Can you extend your stay in Namibia?

You might find Namibia’s refreshing air, majestic dunes, and clear skies so enchanting that you wish to prolong your visit. If that's the case, you can apply for a visa extension (around US$40) at the Namibian Ministry of Home Affairs in Windhoek, provided you haven’t stayed longer than 90 days in the country.

However, be aware that extension requests are not commonly approved. It's advisable to plan your desired stay duration before entering the country.

Is it possible to obtain a work visa for Namibia?

Currently, Namibia does not provide working holiday visas. If you need a work visa (for short-term employment up to six months) or an employment permit (for longer employment over six months), you should submit your application through the Namibian Ministry of Home Affairs website well ahead of your intended arrival. However, Namibia does offer a Digital Nomad Visa for stays of up to six months.