American tourists visiting Namibia will soon need to secure a visa before setting foot in the Southern African nation, following a new policy set to take effect on April 1, 2025.
The announcement was made official via a statement released by the United States Embassy in Namibia on Tuesday, March 25. It confirms that U.S. citizens intending to travel to Namibia for tourism must apply for a visa in advance, marking a clear departure from the long-standing visa-free access Americans previously enjoyed for stays up to 90 days.
The Namibian government has recommended that travelers apply through its online visa-on-arrival portal to streamline the process. Approved applicants are expected to carry a printed copy of their visa approval when traveling.
For those entering through high-traffic areas—such as Hosea Kutako International Airport in Windhoek or Walvis Bay airport—there will be an option to obtain a tourist visa on arrival, although advance application is still encouraged to avoid delays.
This policy shift arrives shortly after Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah took office as Namibia’s first female president, a historic moment that also marks a new tone in the country’s diplomatic approach.
The move isn’t entirely unexpected. In May of last year, Namibia signaled its intent to tighten visa regulations for citizens of countries that do not offer reciprocal visa-free access to Namibians. The U.S., along with Canada and several EU member states, is among the 31 countries affected by this decision. Namibian officials described it as a “strategic decision aimed at promoting balanced diplomatic relationships.”
Officials argue that Namibia has long opened its doors to citizens of countries that have not extended the same courtesy to Namibians. “It’s about fairness,” a government spokesperson said. “If our people need visas to visit your country, it’s only reasonable that your citizens should meet the same requirements when visiting ours.”
In addition to the new visa requirement, the Namibian government has also announced a rise in visa fees, although exact figures have yet to be disclosed.
Travelers are advised to plan ahead and review the updated entry requirements to ensure a smooth journey. Further details, including the online visa application portal and fees, are expected to be provided by the Namibian Ministry of Home Affairs and Immigration in the coming days.
