Work visas
Basotho Work Permit
For a foreign national taking up employment in Lesotho, sponsored by a registered employer who supports the permit.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Under review — check current rules
The exact work-permit fee and processing time are not published on the Ministry site (third parties cite figures such as M2,800); do not state a specific fee until confirmed against the Aliens Control Regulations or the Department of Immigration.
Important information
Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Lesotho government website before you apply.
- Official name
- Work / Residence Permit
- Route type
- Employment permit
- Standard residence permit validity
- 2 years
- The Ministry lists a two-year residence permit; a short temporary permit of 90 days also exists.
- Fee
- Set by regulation
- Governed by the Aliens Control (Amendment of Schedule) Regulations, 2018; confirm the current amount with the Department of Immigration.
Who it is for
- Foreign nationals with a job offer from a Lesotho-registered employer
- Skilled professionals such as doctors, nurses and teachers (dedicated categories)
- Employers sponsoring overseas hires
Requirements
- Valid passport (at least six months)
- Employment offer / contract from a registered Lesotho employer and an employer introduction letter
- Completed application to the Director of Immigration
- Supporting documents (qualifications, medical report and, if applicable, yellow fever certificate)
- Payment of the prescribed permit fee
What you can do
- Work for the sponsoring employer in the approved role
- Reside in Lesotho for the permit's validity
- Apply to renew, and in time work towards longer-term residence
How to apply
- The employer/applicant submits the permit application to the Department of Immigration
- Provide the job offer, supporting documents and the prescribed fee
- Await processing and issuance of the permit
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.