Visas for Botswana

Whether you are moving to Botswana to set up a business, take up an exciting job offer or simply visit stunning game reserves and see the famous Okavango Delta, you'll need to have the correct visa for Botswana.

Visa regulations are subject to change. We recommend visiting a Botswanan embassy or consulate for up-to-date information.

The main visa types are tourism visas, visitor's visas, study visas, as well as business, investment, and employment visas. If you wish to stay in the country, you might also be required to obtain a residence visa.

Tourist and visitor's visas for Botswana

The application process for a short-term visa for Botswana is not as straightforward as it is for other destinations. Travellers are encouraged to investigate visa regulations ahead of time and apply before travelling, with Botswana's e-visa facilities, if necessary.

Many countries' nationals do not need a visa for short-term stays. This includes citizens from the European Union, the UK, the US, and South Africa, among others. These foreigners will likely receive a visa on arrival. Nonetheless, it’s best to check with the nearest embassy about the latest regulations, as entry requirements change frequently.

Foreign citizens who are not from a visa-exempt country must apply in advance. First, determine whether you need a tourism visa or a visitor's visa.

Tourism visas allow travel to Botswana for recreational or non-work activities. Visitor's visas allow foreigners to stay in Botswana for social reasons, such as attending an event or visiting friends and family. To get a tourism or visitor's visa, applicants will usually be asked to provide their flight and trip itinerary. Processing the visas normally takes two weeks.

Tourism visas are valid for up to three months, depending on whether it is single- or multi-entry. The tourism visa can be extended up to five years and allow multiple entries in some cases.

Visitor's visas are generally valid for three months, but dependants of residents can be issued a visitor’s visa valid for up to two years. Neither tourism nor visitor's visas allow foreigners to work in the country.

Useful links

• Botswana e-visa

Study visas for Botswana

If you're a prospective expat planning to study at an educational institution in Botswana, you must apply for a study visa. There are several universities and technical colleges like the University of Botswana and Limkokwing University of Creative Technology. Botswana also offers research opportunities.

Among the supporting documents, applicants must often provide their flight itinerary and proof of acceptance to study. Additionally, they must also state their source of funding. Study visas are valid for three months but can be extended.

Work permits for Botswana

You must apply for the appropriate work visa if you are planning on doing business in Botswana. As an international, you cannot work or earn an income in Botswana on a tourism, visitor’s or study visa. Instead, specific business, investment, and employment visas are available.

Business visas

Foreign citizens who are prospective investors, entrepreneurs, or traders are advised to apply for a business visa. This visa allows you to attend business conferences and explore and negotiate commercial opportunities.

Officials in Botswana will require certified copies of trade licences, incorporation, or a certificate of host for the locally registered business. You must also submit a meeting schedule. Validity for the visa ranges from three to six months up to one year and can be single- or multi-entry. 

Investment visas

While business visas allow prospective businesspeople entry to Botswana, investment visas are issued to expats who regularly do business in the country. This often includes foreigners with investment projects and directors of organisations that operate in Botswana.

Investment visas are typically valid from six months to five years. Holders of these visas are allowed to apply for permanent residence after 10 years. 

Employment visas

Foreign nationals who are offered an opportunity for employment or an internship, as well as research and voluntary work, must get an employment visa.

If you have a job offer, you must apply for an employment visa and a work permit alongside your prospective employer. In most cases, the employer will carry the burden of applying for a work permit. Regardless, you should ask your employer or consult with the nearest embassy about the required supporting documents.

Employment visas are usually granted for six months but can be extended.

Residence permits for Botswana

Residence permits allow foreign nationals to live in Botswana. If you wish to stay longer than your visa allows, you can explore your options for a residence permit, whether you are an investor, employee, or student. Accompanying dependants must also apply for residency through the Botswanan immigration authorities.

The documents required vary depending on the applicants' circumstances. In many cases, applicants must provide a medical report and a certified copy of their birth certificate.

After living in Botswana for a minimum of five years, you can apply for permanent residence.

Foreigners will likely need a fair bit of time collecting the necessary documents and then waiting for the application to be processed. This could be at least thirty working days for a residence permit or six months for permanent residence applications.

Securing residency within Botswana can be quite a daunting task, and the process can be tedious and confusing. Many expats hire the services of an immigration consultant to assist them.

Useful links

• Republic of Botswana – Immigration and Civil Registration

*Visa requirements can change at short notice, and expats are advised to contact their nearest Botswana consulate for the latest information.