Namibia Expands Visa on Arrival for Tourism Under New Policy

(NAMIBIA) Namibia has moved to tighten and streamline entry rules for foreign visitors, rolling out new requirements that took effect on April 1, 2025, and expanding visa access points across key airports. As of September 16, 2025, nationals from 33 countries — including the United States and Switzerland — must now obtain a Namibia visa through either a visa on arrival process or an online e-visa application. Officials say the shift is part of a reciprocity policy aimed at matching how other countries treat Namibian travelers while improving border management and tourism planning.

Two entry options: e-visa or visa on arrival

The government’s approach blends flexibility with control. Travelers from the affected countries can:

• Submit an online application ahead of time through the Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety, and Security’s e-services platform, or
• Receive a visa on arrival at the counter when landing at Hosea Kutako International Airport (near Windhoek) or Walvis Bay International Airport.

For most non–African Union visitors, the visa fee is NAD 1,600. Authorities have stressed that either path — e-visa or visa on arrival — meets the new entry rule, provided documents are in order and the travel purpose fits the visa category.

Expansion plans and expected benefits

Officials signaled a broader opening at the border, announcing plans to add 35 more countries and territories to the list eligible for visa on arrival. A rollout date for that expansion has not been confirmed, but the direction is clear: Namibia wants to keep its doors open to tourists while ensuring reciprocity and better oversight of short-term visits.

According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, this hybrid model can help Namibia maintain healthy visitor numbers, especially if the online process is simple and airport counters are adequately staffed.

Reciprocity forms the backbone of the policy: the change aims to balance travel privileges with countries that require visas from Namibian citizens and to improve data for tourism planning.

Policy rationale and government objectives

Before April 2025, many nationalities enjoyed visa-free entry. Namibia’s new stance is designed to:

• Balance travel privileges with other countries through reciprocity,
• Strengthen orderly entry procedures and border management,
• Improve data collection on arrivals and travel patterns to inform tourism planning and resource allocation (airports, national parks, high-traffic areas).

Officials argue that a level playing field helps manage expectations, supports fair treatment for Namibians abroad, and enables better planning for safety and conservation goals.

How to apply — practical steps

Travelers eligible for the updated Namibia visa process can choose from two clear paths:

1. Apply online through the Ministry’s e-services portal:
   • Primary gateway: Namibia e-Services (Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety, and Security)
   • Government encourages applying in advance, printing the approval notice, and carrying it with the passport.
2. Request a visa on arrival at designated entry points:
   • Counters located at Hosea Kutako International Airport and Walvis Bay International Airport.
   • Requires showing documents, paying the fee, and answering brief border questions.

Both options require standard travel documents and proof of travel plans.

Required documents and recommendations

To support quick processing, officials advise carrying the following:

• Valid passport with sufficient blank pages and validity beyond the intended stay
• Printed e-visa approval notice if applying online in advance
• Completed application form (available at airport counters for visa on arrival)
• Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or host details)
• Travel itinerary or evidence of onward/return travel
• Medical/travel insurance that covers the visit

Travelers taking the e-visa route should apply early to allow time for review and follow-up. The Ministry recommends printing the approval notice and bringing a spare copy; border officers may request printed confirmation even if it’s available on a phone.

Fees and budgeting

• Visa fee (most non–African Union nationals): NAD 1,600

Budget this amount into trip costs. Many tour companies now include visa guidance in pre-departure briefings, and airlines are reminding passengers to check Namibia’s entry rules before boarding.

Operational notes for arrival processing

At airport visa-on-arrival counters:

• Expect to show documents, pay the fee, and answer brief questions about trip purpose and length of stay.
• Processing time varies; lines move faster when applicants have paperwork ready and can show proof of accommodation and onward travel.
• Officials are monitoring staffing levels and signage to reduce queues and ensure consistent payment and receipt issuance.

Impact on travelers and industry

The changes are intended to be practical rather than restrictive. Key effects include:

• A clearer, consistent entry path for visitors through two simple channels (e-visa or visa on arrival).
• Potential to reduce surprises at checkpoints and make trips more predictable for tour operators, hotels, and logistics companies.
• Mixed industry reaction: some fear the extra step may deter spontaneous trips, while others believe the e-visa option paired with visa on arrival keeps barriers low.

Real-life examples:
– A family in New York or Zurich planning a two-week self-drive through Etosha and the Namib Desert can secure an e-visa from home or pick up a visa at Hosea Kutako, making the trip more manageable.
– A regional tour operator benefits from a single fee and consistent requirements across entry points, reducing last-minute changes and stranded clients.

Communication and official support

For assistance, travelers can contact the Ministry’s Public Relations Office:

• Phone: +264 81 951 0064/65/66
• Email: [email protected]
• Online portal: Namibia e-Services (Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety, and Security)

Officials urge applicants to rely on these official channels instead of third-party agents, unless working with a trusted tour company that provides clear terms.

What will determine success

The policy’s success depends on clarity and speed:

• Clear instructions on accepted documents and processing times help travelers choose between e-visa and visa on arrival.
• Speed and staffing at counters limit frustration after long flights.
• Tourism operators emphasize steady turnaround times — online and at airports — as the most important factor.

Authorities say they are reviewing feedback from airlines, tour operators, and travelers to refine procedures, including staffing, signage, payment options, and updates on the planned expansion to additional countries.

Key takeaways

• Travelers from the affected 33 countries now need a visa to enter Namibia.
• Namibia offers two channels: e-visa (online) or visa on arrival (airport counters at Hosea Kutako and Walvis Bay).
• The standard fee is NAD 1,600 for most non–African Union nationals.
• The policy emphasizes reciprocity, improved border control, and better tourism planning.
• Applying online in advance and carrying printed authorization can speed entry and reduce queue times.

Travelers who prepare — by applying online early or arriving with documents in hand — can expect a smoother entry and more time to enjoy Namibia’s parks, coastlines, and cultural sites.