The Namibian government has decided to introduce visa requirements for countries that have not reciprocated Namibia’s visa policies, the executive director at MHAISS Etienne Maritz has announced.
This policy will be applied to 31 countries, including Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Britain and the United States, VisaGuide.World reports.
Maritz, as cited by Xinhua News, explained that visitors from 31 countries can obtain visas upon arrival in Namibia after completing an online application and paying the necessary fee.
He further added that the ministry will announce the implementation date and application procedures through diplomatic channels at a later time.
Regarding this measure, the ministry will provide guidelines and procedures for issuing visas to travelers from the impacted nations.
‘This Decision Aims to Promote Fair & Balanced Diplomatic Relations’
Maritz further explained that this policy aims to foster fair and balanced diplomatic relations.
According to him, this decision comes after years of Namibia extending goodwill gestures and providing favorable treatment to citizens of several countries without receiving reciprocal treatment.
He underscored that this policy aims not to impede legitimate travel but to maintain the principle of reciprocity in international relations.
Namibia remains committed to fostering positive and mutually beneficial diplomatic relations and continues to welcome visitors and tourists.
Namibia Introduced Visa-on-Arrival Policy to Drive Tourism & Trade
Prior to this decision, Namibian authorities introduced visas upon arrival at Walvis Bay Harbour port.
The new policy, which entered into force on April 18, 2024, aims to enhance tourism and trade, as noted by the authorities.
In addition to Walvis Bay Harbour, foreign visitors can also receive visa-on-arrival services at other primary entry points, such as Hosea Kutako International Airport and Walvis Bay Airport.
These services are offered at other points, including several border posts, such as Trans Kalahari, Katima Mulilo, Ngoma, Impalila Island, Oshikango, Mohembo, Ariamsvlei, Noordoewer, and Oranjemund.
By issuing visas at the point of arrival, the ministry aims to bolster convenience for travelers while sustaining security measures.
Reportedly, his type of visa costs 1,200 Namibian dollars ($65) and is valid for 90 days.
Namibian Citizens Can Travel Visa-Free to 53 Countries
As of May 2024, the Namibian passport is ranked 127th, according to the VisaGuide Passport Index. This means that Namibian passport holders can enjoy visa-free entry to 53 countries worldwide.
On the other hand, citizens of Namibia are required to obtain a visa in order to travel to 124 other countries around the world.