Planning your dream Namibian safari adventure? Understanding the country’s visa requirements is your first step to a smooth journey. With recent changes implemented in April 2025, knowing whether you need a visa for Namibia has never been more important.
Quick Answer: Do You Need a Visa for Namibia?
As of April 1, 2025, most international travelers need a visa to enter Namibia. However, the process is straightforward. Namibia offers visa-on-arrival and e-visa options for over 90 countries.
Your visa requirements depend on your nationality. Fortunately, the Namibian government has made the application process relatively simple.
Major Changes in 2025: What Travelers Need to Know
Namibia’s visa policy changed significantly in early 2025. Previously, many Western countries enjoyed visa-free access. This included the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Canada.
That changed on April 1, 2025. Namibia aligned its policies with diplomatic reciprocity. Simply put, countries requiring visas from Namibian citizens now face the same requirement.
The good news? While more travelers need visas now, the process is easy. Both visa-on-arrival and e-visa options are available at major entry points and online.
Countries That Don't Need a Visa for Namibia
Great news for travelers from these countries! The following 22 nationalities can enter Namibia completely visa-free for up to 90 days:
African Nations: Angola, Botswana, Kenya, Lesotho, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles, South Africa, Swaziland (Eswatini), Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe
Asia & Pacific: Hong Kong (SAR), Indonesia, Macau (SAR), Malaysia, Russian Federation, Singapore
Americas: Brazil, Cuba, Jamaica
What you need: Only a valid passport with six months validity and three blank pages. You’ll receive a free Visitor’s Entry Permit (VEP) at the port of entry. No fees, no applications, no hassle.
Countries That Need Visa-on-Arrival or E-Visa
Is your country not on the visa-free list? Don’t worry! Namibia offers visa-on-arrival for travelers from over 90 countries worldwide. This covers major tourism markets across Africa, Asia, the Americas, and Europe.
The Big Change: What Happened in April 2025?
Previously, 33 primarily Western countries enjoyed visa-free access to Namibia. As of April 1, 2025, these countries now need to obtain a visa. However, they can easily get a visa-on-arrival or e-visa.
Previously Visa-Free, Now Need Visa-on-Arrival:
- Europe: Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, United Kingdom
- Americas: United States, Canada
- Oceania: Australia, New Zealand
Who Else Can Get Visa-on-Arrival?
In addition to the 33 countries above, many other nations qualify for visa-on-arrival:
African Countries: Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cabo Verde, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Comoros, Côte d’Ivoire, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Gabon, Gambia, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Madagascar, Mauritania, Niger, Rwanda, São Tomé and Príncipe, Sierra Leone, Togo, Tunisia, Uganda, Western Sahara Republic
Americas: Chile, Mexico, Nicaragua, Venezuela
Asia: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Cambodia, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Singapore, Slovakia, South Korea, Tajikistan, Thailand, Turkey, Turkmenistan, UAE, Uzbekistan, Vietnam
Europe (additional): Czech Republic, Hungary, Moldova, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Ukraine
Visa-on-Arrival Requirements & Costs
Visa fee: N$1,600 (approximately €85 or US$90)
Validity: Up to 90 days
Passport requirements: 6 months validity minimum, at least 3 blank pages
Special exemption: Diplomatic and official passport holders from certain countries are exempt. This includes Switzerland, Germany, and France.
Where to Get Your Visa-on-Arrival
You can obtain your visa at these entry points:
- Hosea Kutako International Airport (Windhoek)
- Walvis Bay International Airport
- Oshikango Border Post
- Trans-Kalahari Border Post
- Oranjemund Border Post
- Noordoever Border Post
- Katima Mulilo Border Post
- Impalila Island Border Post
- Ngoma Border Post
- Mohembo Border Post
Namibia Visa Requirements: Essential Documents
To successfully obtain your Namibia tourist visa, prepare the following:
✅ Valid passport with at least 6 months validity beyond your departure date
✅ Three completely blank pages for entry and exit stamps
✅ Completed visa application form
✅ Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings, lodge reservations)
✅ Travel itinerary demonstrating your planned activities
✅ Return or onward ticket
✅ Travel/medical insurance (highly recommended)
✅ Invitation letter (if applicable)
✅ Proof of sufficient funds for your stay
How Long Can You Stay in Namibia?
Standard tourist visa: The default entry period is typically 30 days. However, immigration officers may grant up to 90 days based on your travel plans.
Need more time? You can extend your initial 30-day stay. Apply through the Ministry of Home Affairs in Windhoek. Submit your application before your current visa expires to avoid penalties.
Critical reminder: Check your admission stamp before leaving immigration. Make sure it covers your entire intended stay. Overstaying can result in detention, arrest, and substantial fines.
Finding Authentic Accommodation
Choosing the right accommodation enhances your Namibian experience. Whether you’re exploring the towering dunes of Sossusvlei, tracking wildlife in Etosha National Park, or discovering hidden gems in the countryside, authentic lodges offer unparalleled insights into Namibia’s natural beauty.
For travelers seeking an authentic Namibian experience away from crowded tourist hotspots, the Lodge Fort Sesfontein provides comfortable accommodation in the heart of Namibia’s scenic landscapes. Family-run lodges like this offer personalized service and local expertise that larger resorts simply can’t match. Your hosts can provide invaluable advice on navigating visa extensions, local customs, and hidden.
Best Time to Visit Namibia
Understanding Namibia’s climate helps optimize your travel experience:
- Dry season (May-October): Best for wildlife viewing, cooler temperatures, clear skies
- Wet season (November-April): Lush landscapes, fewer tourists, dramatic storm photography opportunities, hot temperatures
Health and Safety Considerations
While not part of visa requirements, consider these important health preparations:
Vaccinations: Yellow fever vaccination may be required if arriving from affected countries. Otherwise, it’s not mandatory. Nevertheless, consult your doctor about recommended vaccinations.
Travel insurance: Namibian medical facilities often require full payment in cash. Comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended.
Water safety: Tap water isn’t potable in many areas. Always request bottled water in restaurants and hotels.
Helpful Resources:
- Namibia e-Visa Portal
- U.S. Embassy Namibia – Travel Information
- Namibia Tourism Board – Visa Information
- Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety & Security
Last updated: October 2025. Visa requirements are subject to change. Always verify current requirements with official sources before traveling.
