The Namibian government has announced the introduction of visa requirements for visitors from countries that do not reciprocate Namibia’s visa policies.
This new policy, revealed by Etienne Maritz, the Executive Director at the Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety, and Security (MHAISS), is set to impact 31 countries, including major nations like the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Canada.
It is worth mentioning here that Namibia currently has visa exemptions for approximately 55 countries, only 18 of which have reciprocal arrangements with Namibia.
Key Details of the New Visa Policy
Affected Countries
The visa requirement will apply to visitors from the following 31 countries:
- Armenia
- Austria
- Azerbaijan
- Belarus
- Belgium
- Canada
- Denmark
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Italy
- Japan
- Kazakhstan
- Kyrgyzstan
- Liechtenstein
- Luxembourg
- Moldova
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Portugal
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Tajikistan
- Turkmenistan
- Ukraine
- United Kingdom
- United States
- Uzbekistan
Visa Application Process
Visitors from these countries will be able to obtain visas upon arrival in Namibia. The process involves completing an online application and paying the necessary fees.
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Implementation and Guidelines
Maritz indicated that the ministry would announce the implementation date and detailed application procedures through diplomatic channels shortly. Guidelines and procedures for issuing these visas will also be provided to ensure a smooth transition to the new policy.
Why the Change?
Namibia’s Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security (MHAISS) has stated that this policy aims to promote “fair and balanced diplomatic relations.” Namibia has extended visa-free entry to many countries but hasn’t received the same courtesy in return.
Enhancing Tourism and Trade
Before this decision, Namibia introduced a visa-on-arrival policy at key entry points such as Walvis Bay Harbour, Hosea Kutako International Airport, and Walvis Bay Airport, effective from April 18, 2024. This policy was designed to enhance tourism and trade by making it more convenient for travellers to visit Namibia.
Maintaining Security and Convenience
The visa-on-arrival services are also available at several border posts, including Trans Kalahari, Katima Mulilo, Ngoma, Impalila Island, Oshikango, Mohembo, Ariamsvlei, Noordoewer, and Oranjemund. By issuing visas at the point of arrival, the ministry aims to bolster convenience for travellers while ensuring security measures are maintained.
Visa Costs and Validity
The visa-on-arrival for Namibia costs 1,200 Namibian dollars (approximately $65) and is valid for 90 days, making it a cost-effective and accessible option for international visitors.
Efforts to Strengthen Diplomatic Relations
Despite the new visa requirements, Namibia remains committed to fostering positive and mutually beneficial diplomatic relations. The country continues to welcome visitors and tourists, aiming to maintain its reputation as a hospitable destination.
Namibian citizens currently enjoy visa-free travel to 53 countries. However, they require visas to travel to 124 other countries worldwide. This new policy reflects Namibia’s effort to maintain reciprocity in international relations and enhance its tourism and trade sectors
Conclusion
The Namibian government’s introduction of visa requirements for non-reciprocal countries marks a significant step towards ensuring equitable diplomatic relations. By balancing the principle of reciprocity with the need to enhance tourism and trade, Namibia aims to maintain its welcoming stance while safeguarding its national interests.
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