Basotho visa resources
How to Apply for a Lesotho Visa or Permit
The steps for applying for a Lesotho visa or residence permit through the Department of Immigration, including the national e-Visa system and its current status.
Important
Visas for the Kingdom of Lesotho are, in normal operation, applied for online through the national e-Visa system operated by the Immigration Department within the Ministry of Home Affairs. Every foreign national who is not visa-exempt must obtain a visa before travelling.
The e-Visa portal has been temporarily suspended by the Ministry. During the suspension, applicants are directed to email their completed application and supporting documents to the Immigration Department (VISA-Applications.Immigration@gov.ls) ahead of travel, or to apply in person at the Department of Immigration. The Ministry warns that any other website claiming to offer Lesotho online visa applications should be treated as fraudulent.
Residence permits (work, study, family, business, and settlement categories) are applied for through the Department of Immigration and Passport Services within the Ministry of Home Affairs.
General steps
- Confirm whether your nationality needs a visa or is exempt
- Choose the correct route (visitor visa, or the relevant permit)
- Complete the application and gather supporting documents
- Submit via the official channel (e-Visa when available, otherwise the Immigration Department email or in person)
- Pay the prescribed fee and await a decision
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.