Namibia Entry Requirements

Namibia has strict requirements for children under 18 to combat child trafficking. ALL children, regardless of nationality, must have an unabridged birth certificate (showing both parents' details) when entering or leaving Namibia. If traveling with both parents listed on the certificate, this may be sufficient. If one parent is absent, you need a notarized affidavit from the absent parent consenting to the child's travel, plus a copy of that parent's ID/passport. If a parent is deceased, carry the death certificate. If you have sole custody, carry a court order. If the child's surname differs from the accompanying adult, carry additional proof of relationship. Adoptive parents must carry adoption papers. These documents must be original or certified copies - immigration will not accept regular photocopies. This is strictly enforced and failure to comply will result in denied boarding or entry. Prepare these documents well in advance as obtaining them can take time.

Importing pets into Namibia requires advance planning and documentation. You must obtain an import permit from the Directorate of Veterinary Services before arrival - applications should be submitted at least 30 days in advance. Required documents include: valid rabies vaccination certificate (must be administered at least 30 days but not more than 12 months before entry), veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of travel, proof of microchip identification, and treatment records for parasites. Dogs and cats from high-risk rabies countries may require a rabies antibody titer test conducted at an approved laboratory. Some breeds may be restricted. Pets must enter through designated ports of entry and may be inspected by veterinary officials. Airlines have specific requirements for pet transport - confirm these when booking. Quarantine is generally not required if all documentation is in order, but officials may impose it if concerned about the animal's health. Costs include permit fees, veterinary inspections, and potential quarantine fees if required.

If you wish to stay in Namibia beyond the period granted on your entry permit, you must apply for an extension before your current permit expires. Extensions are handled by the Ministry of Home Affairs and Immigration in Windhoek or regional offices. You should apply at least one week before your permit expires. Required documents typically include: valid passport, completed application form, proof of sufficient funds to support extended stay, proof of accommodation, police clearance certificate (if staying more than 90 days total), explanation letter stating reasons for extension, and extension fee payment. Extensions are not guaranteed and are granted at the discretion of immigration officials. Overstaying your permit is a serious offense that can result in fines, detention, deportation, and future entry bans. If you plan to work, study, or conduct business in Namibia, you need the appropriate visa/permit obtained before arrival - tourist permits cannot be converted to work permits while in Namibia. For long-term residence, consult with Namibian immigration authorities about residence permit options.

Business visitors entering Namibia for short-term business activities (meetings, conferences, negotiations) can typically use visa-free entry or business visas depending on nationality. You should carry an invitation letter from the Namibian company or organization you're visiting, stating the purpose and duration of your visit. Business permits are required if you intend to receive payment from a Namibian entity or engage in any form of employment. Attending trade shows, conducting site inspections, or negotiating contracts generally falls under business visitor activities. If you plan to work in Namibia, even temporarily, you must obtain a work permit before arrival - this process can take several months and requires sponsorship from a Namibian employer. Business travelers should declare any commercial samples or equipment at customs and may need temporary import permits for valuable items. Keep all business-related documentation organized for immigration and customs inspection.

Passengers transiting through Namibia (typically Hosea Kutako International Airport) without leaving the international transit area generally do not need a visa, regardless of nationality, provided they continue their journey on the same or first connecting flight within 24 hours and hold valid documents for their final destination. However, if you need to collect baggage and re-check it, change airports, or exit the airport for any reason, you will go through immigration and must meet entry requirements for Namibia (visa if required). If your transit exceeds 24 hours or you wish to leave the airport to visit Windhoek or other areas, you need proper entry authorization. Some airlines may require transit visas for certain nationalities even if not leaving the airport - check with your airline. Ensure you have valid visas for all countries on your itinerary, including your final destination. Keep boarding passes and tickets for all flight segments accessible to show immigration officials.

Citizens of Southern African Development Community (SADC) member states generally enjoy easier entry to Namibia, with most being visa-exempt. However, all entry requirements regarding passport validity, sufficient funds, and documentation still apply. If you're a SADC national planning to work or reside in Namibia, you still need appropriate permits despite regional agreements. South African citizens should note that the same strict child travel documentation requirements apply when traveling between South Africa and Namibia. Border posts between Namibia and neighboring countries can be busy, especially during holidays and weekends - allow extra time. Some remote border posts may have limited hours of operation. If driving across borders, ensure you have all required vehicle documentation including cross-border permits, insurance, and owner's authorization if not your vehicle.