A Quick Guide for Smooth Entry into the Land of Wide-Open Spaces
Namibia welcomes travelers with open arms—and in many cases, without the need for a visa at all. But rules do vary depending on your nationality, purpose of visit, and length of stay. Here's everything you need to know before booking your flight or showing up at the airport.
✈️ Who Doesn’t Need a Visa?
Namibia offers visa-free entry (for up to 90 days) to passport holders from several countries, including:
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🇺🇸 United States
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🇬🇧 United Kingdom
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🇨🇦 Canada
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🇪🇺 Most EU countries
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🇿🇦 South Africa
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🇦🇺 Australia
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🇳🇿 New Zealand
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🇳🇴 Norway, 🇸🇪 Sweden, 🇨🇭 Switzerland, 🇯🇵 Japan
Note: Even if a visa isn’t required, you may still need to show proof of:
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Return or onward ticket
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Sufficient funds
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Accommodation details
Always double-check current rules with your nearest Namibian embassy before traveling, as visa policies may change.
📝 Who Needs a Visa in Advance?
If you're not from a visa-exempt country, you'll need to:
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Apply at your nearest Namibian embassy or consulate
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Submit documents including passport photos, itinerary, and a hotel booking
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Pay a processing fee (varies by country, generally around $50–$70 USD)
Processing usually takes 3–10 business days, but apply earlier just in case.
⏱️ How Long Can You Stay?
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Tourist entry is usually granted for up to 90 days per calendar year
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Border officials stamp the exact number of days in your passport—check the stamp before leaving the desk
Overstaying, even by one day, can result in fines or being barred from re-entry.
📎 Other Entry Tips
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Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your entry date
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You need at least 1 blank page for the visa stamp
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Travel insurance isn’t required for entry, but highly recommended
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Yellow fever certificate is only needed if you’ve recently visited a high-risk country
🛣️ Land Border Crossings
Namibia shares land borders with Angola, Zambia, Botswana, and South Africa. The visa requirements are the same regardless of whether you fly in or cross by road—but expect longer processing times at smaller border posts.
🚫 Working or Volunteering?
If you plan to:
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Volunteer
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Work (paid or unpaid)
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Film commercially
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Attend a conference
You’ll likely need a different type of visa or permit, even if you're from a visa-free country. Always consult the Ministry of Home Affairs or Immigration before travel.
Final Thoughts
For most travelers, entering Namibia is quick and easy. But it’s still smart to know the rules ahead of time, especially if you’re planning a longer stay or combining it with travel to neighboring countries. A little preparation goes a long way—just like the roads that lead you through this incredible place.