Niël Terblanché
Fears that the tourism industry will be affected by a decision by the Cabinet to introduce visa requirements for certain countries have been allayed.
Last week, the Cabinet announced that the executive had approved the implementation of visa requirements for nationals from 31 countries that have not reciprocated Namibia’s favourable treatment of their citizens.
According to Margaret Kalo, the Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security’s, Chief Public Relations Officer, the strategic decision is aimed at promoting fair and balanced diplomatic relations with these countries.
Kalo, however, stressed that this measure is not intended to hinder legitimate travel but rather to uphold the principle of reciprocity in international relations.
According to Kalo, Namibia remains committed to promoting positive and mutually beneficial diplomatic relations with all nations.
She also reassured visitors and tourists of Namibia’s continued hospitality and warm welcome.
Kalo said that over the years, Namibia has shown goodwill by granting favourable entry conditions to various countries.
“Despite these efforts, certain nations have not reciprocated, prompting the Namibian government to implement this measure to ensure parity and fairness in international interactions,” she said.
Kalo added that the Ministry of Home Affairs will soon communicate the specific date for the implementation of these new visa requirements through diplomatic channels. Upon arrival in Namibia, nationals from the affected countries will receive visas, subject to an applicable fee and an online visa application process.
The countries affected by this new regulation are Armenia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Moldova, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Ukraine, the United Kingdom, the United States of America, and Uzbekistan.
“The implementation of the visa requirements is evidence of the government’s determination to ensure that the interests and rights of Namibian citizens are respected and protected on the global stage,” Kalo said.
The unaffected countries consist mainly of African countries.
According to Cirrus Capital since 2015, over 70% of tourists who visited Namibian came from the countries affected by the revocation of visa-free entry.
Trade specialist Rodney Hoaeb noted that the government does not put enough effort into making the business visa process more efficient.
“The worst scenario is that Namibia doesn’t make provision for e-Visas,” he said.
