Windhoek (Agencies): The Namibian government has announced that, starting April 1, US citizens will no longer be able to enter the country without a visa. The US Embassy in Windhoek confirmed the new regulation, urging American travelers to obtain a visa in advance through Namibia’s online visa-on-arrival portal.
While travelers entering through Windhoek, Walvis Bay, or major border crossings will have the option to purchase a tourist visa upon arrival, the embassy advises applying in advance to avoid delays. The visa fee has been set at 1,600 Namibian dollars (approximately $87) per person, regardless of age.
The UK High Commission in Namibia has also updated its travel guidelines, recommending British nationals to apply for a visa before departure or be prepared to obtain one upon arrival.
Namibia, a popular tourist destination, has historically allowed visa-free entry for US travelers, along with citizens from other major tourism markets such as Germany, the UK, France, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Italy, Spain, Canada, and Austria. However, in 2023, the Namibian government announced a policy shift to revoke visa exemptions for 31 countries, citing a lack of reciprocity in visa arrangements.
This move is expected to impact tourism inflows, particularly from Western nations that form a significant portion of Namibia’s overseas visitors