Namibia Expands Visa-on-Arrival to New Entry Points

Namibia has officially launched visa-on-arrival services at three new entry points: Katima Mulilo, Impalila Island (Zambia), and Ngoma (Botswana). The initiative was announced by Namibia’s Minister of Home Affairs and Immigration, Albert Kawana, and is expected to significantly benefit the country’s tourism sector—with a particular focus on the Zambezi region, which borders these key access points.

"All three passport categories—ordinary, diplomatic, and service—are eligible for visa-on-arrival services," Kawana stated. However, the measure excludes individuals intending to work in Namibia; those seeking employment must obtain a work permit prior to entry.

Enhanced border controls and youth employment focus

Kawana emphasized that immigration officers must continue conducting thorough checks on all visitors entering Namibia. This includes identifying individuals prohibited from entry or listed on blacklists such as those maintained by Interpol.

To further leverage tourism’s potential for economic and social development—particularly for young Namibians—the Ministry of Home Affairs will intensify efforts to ease visa policies. This will involve coordinated action with government and non-government stakeholders to streamline processes and encourage the creation of jobs.

"Professionalism, integrity, and hospitality must be the hallmarks of all border officials, including immigration personnel," Kawana stressed. Any misconduct toward visitors will not be tolerated. "We are training our officers rigorously, but we must also compete with destinations where tourists are treated ethically." Violations by immigration agents will result in swift and impartial disciplinary action.

Visa exemptions for most nationalities

Visitors from most Western countries (North America, Europe, Russia, Australia, etc.) and Southern African neighbors are exempt from visa requirements for stays of up to 90 days per calendar year.

The visa-on-arrival policy primarily applies to travelers from select Central American (Colombia, Mexico), Eastern European (Romania, Poland), Southeast Asian, and Sub-Saharan African nations (Mauritania, Niger, etc.). Notably, Germany—which previously administered Namibia as a protectorate—remains a key visitor source market under this relaxed regime.