By John Ikani
Namibia has implemented a new visa policy that will require citizens of 31 countries, including Canada, the United States, Germany, and the United Kingdom, to obtain a visa for entry starting in April 2025.
The decision is a direct response to the disparity in visa requirements between Namibia and these Western nations.
The Namibian government has long expressed frustration over the stringent visa regulations imposed on its citizens by many Western countries.
In an effort to establish a more equitable system, Namibia has decided to reciprocate by introducing visa requirements for visitors from the affected countries.
While the new policy may impact Namibia’s tourism industry, the government believes it is essential to address the long-standing issue of visa restrictions.
The hope is that this move will encourage reciprocal arrangements and facilitate easier travel for Namibian citizens.
Visitors from the affected countries will be able to obtain a visa upon arrival in Namibia for a fee of $90.
This contrasts sharply with the complex and often costly visa application processes faced by Namibians when travelling to many Western countries.
The British High Commissioner to Namibia acknowledged Namibia’s right to implement new regulations, citing the UK’s own recent imposition of visa requirements on Namibians due to an increase in asylum seekers.
