Namibia ends visa-free entry for US, UK citizens

Namibia will no longer grant visa-free entry to citizens of the United States, the United Kingdom, and more than 30 other countries, effective April 1, 2025.

The decision, approved by the Namibian cabinet in July 2024, marks a major change in the country’s approach to international travel, primarily driven by the lack of reciprocal visa-free access for Namibian passport holders.

Previously, travelers from the US, UK, and most European nations, including Germany—Namibia’s largest tourism market—enjoyed visa-free entry.

However, under the new policy, visitors from these countries will now be required to obtain a visa before arrival or apply through Namibia’s online visa-on-arrival portal.

The move comes just days after Namibia inaugurated its fifth president, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, signaling a firm stance on diplomatic reciprocity.

The government has emphasized that the decision was necessary due to the restrictive visa policies imposed on Namibian citizens by the affected countries.

A key motivation behind the policy shift is the principle of reciprocity. In 2023, the UK revoked visa-free access for Namibian passport holders, requiring them to obtain visas for entry.

Similarly, Namibians face stringent visa requirements when traveling to the US and several other nations now affected by the new rules.

“It is only fair that we implement the same measures for countries that do not offer our citizens the same travel privileges,” a Namibian government official stated.

“This is not about hostility but about mutual respect in international relations.”

The decision has sparked concerns within Namibia’s tourism industry, which relies heavily on visitors from Europe and North America.

Industry stakeholders had warned that imposing visa requirements could deter tourists, particularly at a time when the sector is still recovering from pandemic-related losses.

Germany, Namibia’s top source of tourists, is among the affected nations. Travel operators fear that additional visa procedures may discourage short-term visitors and business travelers, potentially affecting hospitality and related sectors.

The US Embassy in Namibia has already issued a travel advisory, urging American citizens to secure visas before their planned trips.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the embassy stated:

“Beginning April 1, 2025, the Namibian Government will require U.S. citizen tourists to obtain a visa prior to entering the country.

“Visitors are recommended to apply for their visa in advance of planned travel through Namibia’s online visa-on-arrival portal.”

Similarly, British travelers will now need to apply for visas, either online or upon arrival. The UK Foreign Office is expected to update its travel advice for Namibia in the coming days.

*Alternative Visa Application Methods
To mitigate disruptions, Namibia has introduced an electronic visa application system, allowing travelers to apply online before departure.

Additionally, visas on arrival will remain available, though officials recommend pre-approval to avoid delays at entry points.

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