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Visitor & short-stay visas

Namibian Visa-Free Entry (Exempt Nationalities)

Short visitor stays without a visa for nationals of exempt countries, mainly SADC neighbours and selected partners.

Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced

Under review — check current rules

The specific list of visa-exempt countries and the exact visa-free stay period are from secondary sources and change frequently; verify against the official MHAISS list before publication.

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 Namibia government website before you apply.
On this page
Official name
Visa exemption for holders of eligible passports
Route type
Visa-free visitor entry
Maximum stay
Short visit (commonly cited as up to 90 days)
Verify the exact permitted stay for your nationality
Visa required
None for eligible nationalities
Entry granted at the port of entry on presentation of a valid passport.
Cost
No visa fee
No visa is issued or paid for by exempt nationals.
Where to apply
Not applicable — no advance application
Present your passport to the immigration officer on arrival.

Who it is for

  • Nationals of SADC and other countries that Namibia lists as visa-exempt for short stays
  • Visitors travelling for tourism, holiday or family visits

What you can do

  • Enter and remain for the visitor period granted at the border
  • Not permitted: employment, study or long-term residence without a permit

How it works

  • Confirm your nationality is on the current exemption list via official MHAISS channels
  • Arrive with a valid passport, proof of onward travel, accommodation and funds
  • Receive a visitor stamp on arrival for the permitted period

Requirements

  • Hold a passport from a nationality that is currently exempt from a Namibian visa (the exemption list was revised on 1 April 2025 — check it still includes your country before you travel).
  • Your passport must be valid and contain blank pages for entry and exit stamps.
  • You must be entering for a permitted short visit such as holiday or tourism.
  • You must be able to show onward or return travel and sufficient funds for your stay.

How to apply

There is no visa to apply for in advance. If your nationality is exempt, you travel to Namibia and present your passport to the immigration officer at the port of entry, who grants a stay of up to 90 days for tourism.

Because Namibia revised its exemption list on 1 April 2025 on the basis of reciprocity, confirm your nationality is still exempt shortly before you travel. If it is not, you must instead obtain a visa (online via the MHAISS eServices portal or on arrival where eligible) before entering.

Documents you may need

  • A valid passport with blank pages for stamps
  • A confirmed onward or return ticket
  • Proof of accommodation or your itinerary in Namibia
  • Evidence of sufficient funds for your stay

Frequently asked questions

  • Eligible visitors are generally admitted for up to 90 days for holiday or tourism purposes. The exact period granted is at the discretion of the immigration officer at the port of entry.

Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.

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