Basotho visa resources
Who Needs a Visa for Lesotho
How to work out whether you need a visa for Lesotho, and which nationalities may enter visa-free.
Important
Whether you need a visa for Lesotho depends on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. Every citizen of a foreign country who wishes to visit in any visa category must obtain a visa through the Lesotho e-Visa system, except citizens of countries that have visa-abolition agreements with Lesotho and citizens of certain Commonwealth countries.
Visa-exempt travellers may enter for short visits without a visa, but the permitted length of stay varies by nationality. Anyone intending to work, study, run a business or settle long-term needs the relevant permit, regardless of whether they are visa-exempt for short visits.
Key points
- Visa-exempt: nationals of countries with visa-abolition agreements and some Commonwealth countries
- Everyone else must apply for a visa before travel
- Long stays for work, study, family or business require a permit, not a visitor visa
- Confirm your nationality's status directly with the Department of Immigration
Next steps
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.