Namibia Visa for UK Citizens: Requirements, Fees and How to Apply
Namibia visa for UK citizens: Discover Namibia visa requirements, visa fees, online visa application, visa on arrival, passport validity and entry requirements for British travellers.
British citizens planning to visit Namibia must obtain a visa before entering the country. Since 1 April 2025, UK passport holders have been required to apply for a Namibian visa, following changes to the country’s visa policy.
Fortunately, the Namibian government provides two convenient options for eligible British travellers: applying for a visa online before travelling or obtaining a visa on arrival at designated ports of entry.
Whether you are visiting Namibia for a holiday, exploring its wildlife, experiencing its deserts or visiting friends and family, understanding the Namibia visa requirements will help you prepare for a smooth journey.
This guide explains the Namibia visa application process for UK citizens, including visa fees, passport requirements, supporting documents, visa validity and how to apply through the official government portal.
Do UK Citizens Need a Visa for Namibia?
Yes. British citizens travelling on full British citizen passports need a visa to enter Namibia.
The requirement took effect on 1 April 2025. Previously, British passport holders could visit Namibia without obtaining a visa for short stays. Under the revised immigration policy, UK citizens must now obtain the appropriate visa.
The Namibian government allows eligible British travellers to apply through its online Visa on Arrival system or complete the application upon arrival at designated ports of entry.
For tourism purposes, visitors can generally be granted permission to stay for up to 90 days, subject to the period approved by immigration authorities.
The visa requirement applies regardless of whether you are travelling to Namibia for sightseeing, visiting relatives or enjoying a holiday. Travellers can also consult our guide to Namibia visa requirements for UK citizens for additional immigration information.
Namibia Visa Requirements for British Citizens
Before travelling, UK citizens should ensure they meet the relevant Namibia entry requirements. You can also review the broader Namibia immigration requirements to understand the country’s entry and immigration framework.
The following are the main requirements for British passport holders.
1. Valid British Passport
Your passport must meet the following conditions:
- It must be valid for at least six months after your intended arrival date in Namibia.
- It must contain at least three blank pages for immigration stamps.
- It must not have been reported lost or stolen.
- It must be in good condition and valid for the duration of your trip.
Travellers should check their passport well before departure. Airlines may refuse boarding if travel documents do not meet the destination country’s requirements.
2. Approved Namibian Visa
British citizens must obtain a visa through one of the available application channels.
You can apply online through the Ministry of Home Affairs Namibia website or obtain a visa on arrival at an approved entry point.
3. Return or Onward Travel Ticket
Travellers should have evidence of their intended departure from Namibia.
A confirmed return flight ticket or onward travel reservation can help demonstrate that you intend to leave the country within the period authorised by immigration officials.
4. Proof of Accommodation
You should prepare evidence showing where you intend to stay during your visit.
Acceptable supporting documents may include:
- Hotel reservations.
- Guesthouse booking confirmations.
- Lodge reservations.
- An invitation and accommodation details from a host in Namibia.
Providing clear accommodation information can help immigration officials assess your travel arrangements.
5. Sufficient Financial Resources
Travellers should be prepared to demonstrate that they can meet their expenses during their stay.
Depending on the circumstances, supporting evidence may include bank statements, proof of income, available funds or sponsorship documentation.
6. Travel Itinerary
A travel itinerary showing your intended activities and accommodation arrangements is useful when preparing your application.
For example, visitors planning to explore Windhoek, Swakopmund, Sossusvlei and Etosha National Park should have a reasonable outline of their travel plans.
Namibia Visa Fees for UK Citizens
British citizens are classified among the non-African nationals required to obtain a visa under Namibia’s revised visa policy.
According to the UK government’s published Namibia entry guidance, the applicable visa fees are:
| Traveller category | Visa fee |
|---|---|
| Adults and children over 11 years | N$1,600 |
| Children aged 6 to 11 years | N$800 |
| Children under 6 years | Free |
These fees apply to the relevant visa-on-arrival category, including applications submitted online before travelling.
The final amount and applicable payment arrangements should be confirmed through the official immigration portal before submitting an application.
It is also important to distinguish visa fees from other travel expenses, such as accommodation, flights and travel insurance.
How to Apply for a Namibia Visa Online from the UK
The Namibian Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security operates an official electronic services platform where eligible international visitors can submit visa applications.
The Namibia online visa application process allows travellers to complete the necessary formalities before arriving in the country.
Step 1: Visit the Official Namibia Visa Application Portal
Go to the official MHAISS E-Services Portal:
https://eservices.mhaiss.gov.na/visaonarrival
Select the Visa on Arrival application service.
Step 2: Register for an Account
Create an account on the government platform if you do not already have one.
Provide the requested registration information and follow the instructions to access your account.
Step 3: Complete the Visa Application Form
Select the appropriate visa service and complete the online application form.
You will generally need to provide:
- Full name as shown in your passport.
- Nationality.
- Passport number.
- Passport issue and expiry dates.
- Date of birth.
- Contact information.
- Intended arrival date.
- Purpose of travel.
- Intended duration of stay.
- Accommodation and travel information.
Ensure that all information matches your passport and supporting documents.
Travellers who need additional guidance on the paperwork can consult the Namibia tourist visa application form information before completing their application. Those preparing supporting paperwork can also refer to the Namibia visa application form PDF.
Step 4: Upload Supporting Documents
Upload the documents requested by the application system.
These may include a scanned copy of your passport, a passport photograph and relevant supporting travel documents.
Check the portal’s current file specifications before uploading your documents. You should also review the Namibia e-visa requirements to understand the documentation expected for an electronic application.
Step 5: Pay the Visa Application Fee
Proceed to the payment section and pay the applicable visa fee using an accepted payment method.
Keep your payment confirmation for future reference.
Step 6: Submit and Track Your Application
After completing the application and payment, submit your information.
You can use the portal’s tracking functionality to follow the progress of your application.
If your application is approved, follow the instructions provided for downloading and printing your electronic visa.
Carry a printed copy when travelling, together with your passport and supporting documents.
Official application portal: https://eservices.mhaiss.gov.na/visaonarrival
Namibia Visa on Arrival for British Citizens
British passport holders are eligible for Namibia’s visa on arrival scheme.
This means you do not necessarily have to complete the entire visa process before departing the United Kingdom.
You can apply at designated Namibian ports of entry, subject to the applicable immigration procedures.
Travellers can find further information about Namibia visa on arrival countries to understand which nationalities qualify under the applicable arrangements.
Where Can UK Citizens Obtain a Visa on Arrival?
Visa on arrival services are available at designated immigration entry points, including:
- Hosea Kutako International Airport in Windhoek.
- Walvis Bay International Airport.
- Walvis Bay Harbour.
- Ariamsvlei Border Post.
- Katima Mulilo Border Post.
- Ngoma Border Post.
- Noordoewer Border Post.
- Oshikango Border Post.
- Trans-Kalahari Border Post.
- Oranjemund Border Post.
- Mohembo Border Post.
- Impalila Border Post.
The designated ports and operational arrangements may change. Travellers should confirm that their intended entry point provides the relevant visa service before departure.
How Does the Visa on Arrival Process Work?
The process generally involves completing the required application information, presenting supporting documents and paying the applicable fee.
Immigration officials will review your application and travel documents before deciding whether to issue the visa.
Once approved, check that the visa and passport entry stamp contain the correct details.
Do not assume that simply arriving at a Namibian airport guarantees entry. The final decision rests with the immigration authorities.
Travellers planning their arrival should also familiarise themselves with the Namibia visa on arrival processing time so they can make appropriate travel arrangements.
Namibia eVisa Application vs Visa on Arrival
British citizens can generally choose between completing the online application before travelling and applying upon arrival.
Both options are designed to facilitate entry into Namibia for eligible visitors.
| Feature | Online application | Visa on arrival |
|---|---|---|
| Application location | Before travelling | At a designated port of entry |
| Application method | Government online portal | Immigration counter |
| Payment | Online through the portal | According to arrangements at the entry point |
| Application tracking | Available through the portal | Handled through immigration procedures |
| Travel preparation | Can be completed in advance | Requires preparation of documents for arrival |
| Eligibility | Eligible British passport holders | Eligible British passport holders |
Which Option Is Better?
For most travellers, applying online before departure is a practical option because it allows them to prepare their documents and complete the application in advance.
It can also reduce the amount of paperwork that needs to be completed upon arrival.
However, travellers who prefer to apply at the airport can use the visa on arrival process at an approved port of entry.
Whichever option you choose, ensure that your documents are complete and that you understand the current immigration requirements.
Namibia Visa Validity and Length of Stay
The visa validity period and the authorised duration of stay are important considerations when planning your visit.
Namibia’s tourist visa arrangements generally allow eligible visitors to stay for up to 90 days.
However, the actual period granted depends on the visa issued and the decision of immigration authorities.
The Namibian tourism authority indicates that visas may be valid for up to three months from the date of issue, with stays of up to three months from entry.
A visa’s validity and its permitted duration of stay should not be confused.
Always check the dates and conditions printed on your visa and entry stamp.
Can UK Citizens Extend Their Namibia Visa?
Extensions may be available through the Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security.
Travellers who wish to remain in Namibia beyond their authorised stay should contact the immigration authorities before their existing permission expires.
An extension is not automatic, and approval depends on the applicable immigration rules and the circumstances of the application.
Can You Work in Namibia on a Tourist Visa?
No. A tourist or holiday visa does not automatically authorise employment in Namibia.
British citizens intending to work, volunteer or undertake other activities outside the permitted tourism purpose must obtain the appropriate immigration authorisation.
Depending on the nature and duration of the employment, travellers may need a temporary work permit in Namibia or a long-term work permit in Namibia.
Those intending to work in the country should first understand the Namibia work permit requirements and the general work permit Namibia application process.
Applicants should also consider the Namibia work permit processing time when planning their relocation or employment arrangements.
Foreign nationals already holding employment authorisation should familiarise themselves with the renewal of work permit Namibia requirements before their existing permits expire.
A separate visa or permit may be required depending on the intended activity.
Namibia Entry Requirements for Children Travelling from the UK
Families travelling to Namibia should pay particular attention to the documentation required for children.
Namibian immigration authorities have specific requirements for minors entering the country.
According to UK government travel guidance, parents travelling with children aged 17 and under should carry:
- The child’s valid passport.
- The child’s full or unabridged birth certificate showing both parents’ details.
Additional documentation may be required depending on who is accompanying the child.
Children Travelling with One Parent
Where a child travels with only one parent or legal guardian, an affidavit of consent from the absent parent or guardian should be carried.
Children Travelling with Guardians or Other Adults
If a child is travelling with someone who is not their parent or legal guardian, an affidavit giving permission for the journey from the relevant parent or guardian is required.
Legal guardians whose names do not appear on the child’s birth certificate should also carry documents establishing their guardianship.
Unaccompanied Minors
Children travelling without a parent or legal guardian should carry the required consent documentation and a letter from their host providing the address where they will stay.
Families should confirm the latest requirements with the Namibian High Commission before departure.
Important Travel Advice for British Citizens Visiting Namibia
Obtaining a visa is only one part of preparing for your trip.
There are several additional considerations that can help UK visitors avoid unnecessary problems at the border.
Check Your Passport Before Departure
Make sure your passport has at least six months of remaining validity after your arrival date and three blank pages.
Carry Printed Travel Documents
Even if you have completed your Namibia eVisa application online, carry printed copies of your approved visa, accommodation reservations and return flight details.
Confirm Your Entry Stamp
After passing through immigration, check that your passport has been stamped correctly.
Make sure the authorised duration of stay matches your travel plans.
Overstaying your visa or failing to obtain the correct entry stamp can result in fines, detention or other immigration consequences.
Check Yellow Fever Requirements
Travellers arriving from countries classified as yellow fever transmission risks must carry a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate.
British travellers transiting through other countries should check whether their route triggers any additional vaccination documentation requirements.
Consider Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is recommended for visitors to Namibia.
Consider insurance covering medical emergencies, hospital treatment, evacuation, cancellations and other unexpected travel expenses.
Check Your Travel Route
Some British travellers enter Namibia through South Africa or other neighbouring countries.
If your journey includes international transit or additional border crossings, check the entry requirements for every country on your itinerary.
Contact the Namibian High Commission in the UK
British citizens who need clarification about visa applications, immigration procedures or other entry requirements can contact the Namibian High Commission in London.
The High Commission provides consular and related services for people within its jurisdiction.
Official website:
For visa application and processing questions, travellers can also contact the Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security directly. The Namibia immigration official website provides another reference point for accessing relevant immigration information.
MHAISS Visa Enquiries:
- Telephone: +264 81 951 0128
- Telephone: +264 81 951 0186
- Email: [email protected]
Official online visa application:
https://eservices.mhaiss.gov.na/visaonarrival
Frequently Asked Questions About Namibia Visas for UK Citizens
1. Can British citizens get a visa on arrival in Namibia?
Yes. British citizens holding full British citizen passports are eligible to obtain a visa on arrival at designated Namibian ports of entry. They can also complete the online application before travelling through the official MHAISS E-Services Portal.
2. How much does a Namibia visa cost for UK citizens?
According to the UK government’s published entry guidance, the visa fee is N$1,600 for travellers over 11 years old, N$800 for children aged 6 to 11, and free for children under 6. Confirm the applicable fee before applying.
3. How long can British citizens stay in Namibia?
British tourists can generally be granted permission to stay for up to 90 days, depending on the visa issued and the period authorised by immigration officials. Travellers must leave before their permitted stay expires or obtain an approved extension.