Namibia Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Namibia is a popular tourist destination known for its impressive landscapes, wildlife, and welcoming atmosphere. Entry for most visitors is straightforward, with many nationalities eligible for visa-free entry or visas on arrival. Upon arrival, travelers will pass through immigration at Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) or land border posts, where officials will check travel documents and may ask about the purpose of the visit. Travelers should ensure their passport is valid for at least six months beyond their intended departure date, have proof of sufficient funds, and possess onward or return travel tickets. It's advisable to have accommodation bookings readily available for inspection.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Namibia's visa policy is generally liberal, offering visa-free entry to citizens of many countries for short-term tourism and business visits. Some nationalities require a visa, which must be obtained in advance from a Namibian embassy or consulate.

Visa-Free Entry

Up to 90 days per calendar year.

Citizens of these countries do not need a visa for tourism or business visits.

Includes

United States United Kingdom Canada Germany France Italy Australia New Zealand South Africa Netherlands Spain Portugal Sweden Norway Denmark Finland Switzerland Austria Belgium Ireland Japan Singapore

Visa-free entry is typically for tourism or business. For other purposes (work, study), a visa is required. The 90-day stay is per calendar year, not per visit.

Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA/eVisa)

Up to 90 days.

As of May 2024, Namibia has launched a pilot Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system for certain nationalities. It is expected to expand.

Includes

Kenya India China (PRC)

How to Apply: Apply online via the Namibia Immigration portal. Processing time is typically 5-7 business days.
Cost: Approximately USD 75.

The ETA is a pre-travel authorization, not a visa. It must be obtained before travel. Check the official Namibia Immigration website for the latest list of eligible countries.

Visa Required

Varies by visa type; tourist visas are typically valid for up to 90 days.

Citizens of countries not listed in visa-free or ETA categories must apply for a visa in advance.

How to Apply: Apply at a Namibian embassy or consulate in your country of residence. Applications usually require a completed form, passport photos, flight itinerary, proof of accommodation, and financial means. Processing can take several weeks.

There is no "Visa on Arrival" for these nationalities. Applications must be submitted before travel.

Arrival Process

The entry process at Namibian ports of entry is generally efficient. Have all your documents organized and be prepared to answer standard questions.

1. Arrival and Document Check

Proceed to the immigration counter. Present your passport, completed entry form (usually provided on the flight or at the border), and any required visas or ETAs.

2. Immigration Interview

An immigration officer will stamp your passport and may ask about the purpose of your visit, duration of stay, and accommodation details.

3. Baggage Claim and Customs

Collect your luggage and proceed through the green (nothing to declare) or red (goods to declare) customs channel.

Documents to Have Ready

Passport

Must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date from Namibia and have at least two blank pages.

Visa/ETA (if required)

Must be obtained before travel for nationalities that require it. Print a copy.

Return/Onward Ticket

Proof of intended departure from Namibia may be requested.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Bank statements or cash equivalent to at least N$ 5,000 per person may be requested to show you can support yourself.

Proof of Accommodation

Hotel bookings or a letter of invitation from a host in Namibia.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Fill out the entry form neatly and completely before reaching the immigration counter to speed up the process.

Have all your supporting documents (hotel confirmations, return ticket) printed and easily accessible.

Answer immigration questions politely and concisely.

Ensure your passport receives an entry stamp. Check it before leaving the counter.

Customs & Duty-Free

Namibia has standard customs regulations. Declare all items over your duty-free allowance and any restricted or prohibited goods.

Alcohol

1 liter of spirits and 2 liters of wine per person aged 18+.

Must be for personal consumption.

Tobacco

400 cigarettes, 50 cigars, or 250 grams of tobacco per person aged 18+.

Must be for personal consumption.

Currency

No limit on foreign currency import, but amounts exceeding NAD 100,000 (or equivalent) must be declared.

Declaration is mandatory for large sums. Keep declaration forms for exit.

Gifts/Goods

New goods up to a value of NAD 50,000 (approx. USD 2,700) per person.

Intended for personal use or gifts. Commercial goods require different procedures.

Prohibited Items

Narcotics and illegal drugs
Counterfeit currency and goods
Unlicensed firearms and ammunition
Pornographic materials
Endangered species products (ivory, rhino horn, etc.) without CITES permits

Restricted Items

Fresh meat, fruits, vegetables, and plants require phytosanitary certificates.
Firearms require an import permit from the Namibian Police.
Pets require an import permit and veterinary health certificate.
Medication: Carry a doctor's prescription for any prescription drugs.

Health Requirements

Namibia has minimal mandatory health requirements for entry, but several vaccinations are strongly recommended due to local health risks.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever vaccination certificate if traveling from a country with risk of Yellow Fever transmission.

Recommended Vaccinations

Routine vaccinations (MMR, DTP)
Hepatitis A and B
Typhoid
Rabies (for extended stays or adventure travelers)
Malaria prophylaxis (for travel to northern regions like Zambezi, Kavango, and some parts of Kunene and Otjozondjupa).

Health Insurance

Complete travel health insurance is highly recommended. Medical facilities are good in Windhoek and Swakopmund but limited in rural areas. Insurance should cover medical evacuation.

Current Health Requirements: As of May 2024, there are no COVID-19 vaccination, testing, or quarantine requirements for entry into Namibia. This is subject to change; check official sources for updates.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Embassy/Consulate

Find your country's embassy or consulate in Namibia or the nearest one (often in South Africa).

Check your government's travel advisory website for contact details.

Immigration Authority

Namibia Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security.

For visa applications and official information: https://www.mhss.gov.na/

Emergency

Emergency services number

Police, ambulance, fire: 10111. From a mobile phone: 112.

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Minors (under 18) traveling to Namibia require an Unabridged Birth Certificate showing the details of both parents. If traveling with one parent or alone, additional documents like affidavits from the absent parent(s) or a court order may be required. These rules are strictly enforced to combat child trafficking.

Traveling with Pets

Cats and dogs require an import permit from the Directorate of Veterinary Services. They must be microchipped, vaccinated against rabies (not less than 30 days and not more than 12 months prior to entry), and have a veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of travel.

Extended Stays

To stay longer than the visa-free 90 days, you must apply for an extension at the Ministry of Home Affairs in Windhoek before your initial stay expires. Overstaying is a serious offense and can result in fines, detention, and deportation.

Know what to pack

Climate-specific clothing, travel documents, electronics, and gear — with shopping links for every item.

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