On September 22, the Namibian government launched an online visa application service for tourists. The new platform aims to facilitate and speed up the visa application process for potential visitors, which the authorities expect to have a significant positive impact on the African country's tourism industry.
Albert Kawana, Namibia's Minister of Home Affairs, Immigration, Security and Personal Protection, said at the launch of the new service: "I am convinced that the introduction of the online tourist visa application will lead to remarkable economic achievements in our tourism industry." This development is part of the Namibian government's policy to promote digitization and e-governance.
How does the Namibian e-Visa work?
To obtain an e-visa for Namibia, travelers must first create a personal account on the Ministry of Home Affairs' e-services portal : eservices.mhaiss.gov.na. Once their account has been created, they can submit their visa application by providing the necessary information, including contact details, travel itinerary, dates of stay and various supporting documents.
You'll need 600 € for this document, which travelers can use only at Hosea Kutako international airport. Windhoek and the Walvis Bayand at the border post with Botswana on the route Trans-Kalahari.
Visa exemptions for Namibia
It is important to note that nationals of many countries are exempt from visa requirements to enter Namibia and stay for up to 90 days, including most Western countries (France, UK, USA, etc).
The e-Visa is therefore ideal for nationalities requiring a visa on arrival or a visa in the passport. Please note that the visa on arrival will cost around twice as much as the electronic method. The electronic visa for Namibia is valid until 3 months from the date of issue and allows stays of up to 90 days after entry.
Expected impact on the tourism industry and the Namibian economy
The Minister Albert Kawana hopes that this new measure will facilitate access to the country for foreign travelers and thus stimulate the domestic tourism industry. The sector already represents a significant part of Namibia's economy, but its growth is still hampered by cumbersome administrative formalities. By simplifying the visa process and enabling travelers to apply for visas online from their own homes, Namibia can look forward to attracting increasing numbers of international visitors and reaping the economic rewards. The authorities are convinced that this e-visa has the potential to transform the tourism industry in Namibia and contribute to the achievement of "economic miracles in this key sector for their country.
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