Niël Terblanché
Namibia has officially launched an online visa application system for travellers seeking visas on arrival, in an effort to improve tourism, to facilitate investment, and streamline immigration processes.
The minister of home affairs, immigration, safety and security, Albert Kawana, announced the new system in Windhoek on Monday and said the initiative aligns with the country’s broader economic and security objectives.
“This initiative represents the latest in our series of progressive measures to boost the country’s tourism sector, improve international engagement, and uphold our national security,” he said.
He added that the online system allows visitors to apply for their visas before arriving, reducing congestion at entry points and enhancing efficiency.
According to Kawana, the Visa on Arrival policy, first introduced in 2019, made Namibia more accessible to international tourists and investors.
Kawana pointed out the success of the policy, which has since been expanded to key border posts, including Hosea Kutako and Walvis Bay international airports, as well as entry points such as Katima Mulilo, Oshikango, and Ariamsvlei.
“Facilitating smooth and efficient entry processes is key to encouraging more tourism and fostering positive diplomatic relations,” he said.
The minister also announced a new visa regime set to take effect on 1 April 2025, requiring nationals from 33 countries that impose visa restrictions on Namibian citizens to obtain a visa before entry. However, these travellers will still benefit from the new electronic visa system.
“This adjustment ensures that our immigration system remains robust and fair while encouraging tourism and international engagement,” he explained.
Under the new system, visa-on-arrival fees have been set at N$1 600 for non-African Union citizens and N$1 200 for African Union nationals.
“These fees have been benchmarked against similar countries and will be subject to annual review,” Kawana said while he assured stakeholders that the system would remain competitive and accessible.
He said the government is set on positioning Namibia as a more accessible and inviting destination for travellers worldwide.
“The ongoing dialogue with international partners will ensure that our visa policies remain dynamic and mutually beneficial,” he said.
The launch event also featured remarks by Nangula Uaandja, Chief Executive Officer of the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB), who pointed out the economic benefits of the new visa policies.
“Namibia’s introduction of visa on arrival represents a strategic shift in our approach to global engagement and economic development,” she said while reiterating how the initiative will simplify entry for business travellers and investors.
She noted that eliminating bureaucratic hurdles will enhance Namibia’s attractiveness as an investment destination, especially in sectors such as renewable energy and infrastructure.
“By reducing waiting periods and offering a seamless entry process, we create a competitive advantage over regional competitors with more restrictive visa policies,” she said.
Uaandja presented statistics that demonstrate the growing role of tourism in Namibia’s economy.
“In 2023, Namibia saw a near doubling of pre-COVID tourist arrivals, with visitors staying an average of 14 nights,” she said.
She added that the new visa system is expected to further stimulate growth in the sector by making it easier for high-value tourists, many of whom also become investors, to visit the country.
Uaandja also pointed out that efficient visa processes will have spillover benefits, including job creation and skills transfer.
“The Visa on Arrival initiative facilitates knowledge exchange between foreign experts and the local workforce, supporting entrepreneurial growth through new business partnerships,” she said.
She added that the reforms also position Namibia as a more attractive destination for skilled professionals and international talent.
“Our ‘live, work, invest’ proposition is strengthened by ensuring seamless entry into the country, allowing global expertise to integrate into key industries such as oil and gas, manufacturing, and technology,” she said.
Uaandja added that with the online visa application system now live, Namibia joins a growing list of nations using digital solutions to modernise immigration services.
