Namibia Tourist Visa Guide
Namibia, one of the most visually captivating nations in Africa, is a haven for nature enthusiasts. If you appreciate the beauty of nature at its finest, Namibia is the ideal destination for you. Fortunately, obtaining entry into this remarkable country has become considerably easier thanks to the Namibia tourist visa.
What is a Namibia Tourist Visa?
The Namibia tourist visa is an authorization that allows individuals to visit the country for tourism-related activities. While citizens of many countries enjoy visa-free entry or visa on arrival to Namibia, Indian citizens are required to obtain a Namibia tourist visa to enter the nation.
How to Apply for a Namibia Tourist Visa?
The application process for a Namibia tourist visa for Indian citizens is conducted offline. Before initiating the application, it’s essential to ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for the tourist category. Here’s how to apply:
- Visit the website of the Namibian High Commission in India and download the tourist visa application form.
- Complete the form with all the required information.
- Along with the completed application form, necessary documents, and fees, visit the High Commission during working days.
- Submit the application and pay the fees.
It is of utmost importance to provide genuine documents and accurate information during the application process. Falsifying information or submitting fake documents can result in an automatic visa refusal.
Eligibility for Namibia Tourist Visa
To apply for a Namibia tourist visa from India, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Reside in India while lodging the application. If you are living in another country under a residence permit, you must apply through the respective authority in that country.
- Possess a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended entry date into Namibia.
- Have the sole purpose of visiting Namibia for tourism.
- Possess sufficient funds to support your stay.
- Hold yellow fever vaccination certificates if you are traveling through an affected country.
Documents Required for Namibia Tourist Visa
To complete your Namibia tourist visa application, you must submit the following documents at the High Commission:
- A passport with a validity of at least 6 months beyond your intended entry date into Namibia.
- Two photos that adhere to specified specifications.
- A fully filled application form.
- A covering letter detailing the purpose of your visit.
- Proof of accommodation, such as hotel bookings or rental agreements.
- Confirmed round-trip flight tickets.
- Bank statements for the past three months.
- A detailed travel itinerary.
Photo Specification for Namibia Tourist Visa
Namibia tourist visa photo requirements stipulate that the photographs submitted must meet specific specifications:
- Dimensions: 35mm x 45mm
- Color: Colored
- The head must occupy the central position in the photo.
- The photo must have been taken within the last three months.
- Background: Solid, plain white, or gray.
- The face should cover 80% of the photo.
- Maintain a neutral expression.
- Glasses are permitted, provided they have non-thick frames or are prescription glasses.
- Headgear is allowed only for religious reasons.
- Facial hair is permitted.
Processing Time
The processing time for a Namibian tourist visa is typically around 10-15 working days. However, this duration can vary significantly based on factors such as the volume of applications at the High Commission, the number of entries permitted, and the duration and validity of the visa. Therefore, it is advisable to apply well in advance of your intended travel date.
Namibia Tourist Visa Fees
The application fee for a Namibia tourist visa can vary slightly due to fluctuations in foreign exchange rates and the number of entries permitted. Additionally, there may be service charges imposed by the visa agent for processing your application. To avoid any confusion, it is recommended that you verify the exact fee amount before beginning the application process.
Entry | Stay Duration | Validity | Fees |
---|---|---|---|
Double entry Normal | 1 month | 3 months | 5000.0 |
Single entry Normal | 1 month | 3 months | 2500.0 |
After Submission
After submitting your application at the High Commission, it will undergo processing. If requested by the Namibian High Commission, you may be required to attend an in-person interview or provide additional documents. It’s important to note that once your application is submitted, you will not be able to modify it.
Once a decision is made regarding your application, you can collect your passport from the High Commission during their specified hours on working days. Alternatively, if you applied through a travel agency, you can request them to collect it on your behalf.
How to Check Visa Status?
Since the entire visa application process is conducted offline, there is no online tracking service provided by the High Commission. However, if you applied through a travel agent, you can contact them to inquire whether they can check your application status by contacting the High Commission.
When You Have the Visa
After successfully obtaining your tourist visa, keep the following points in mind to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey:
Before You Travel:
- Take note of the visa’s validity, duration of stay, and the number of permitted entries.
- Ensure that you do not stay in Namibia beyond the visa’s expiration date.
- Carry all your travel documents with you before traveling to the country.
At the Border:
- Present your passport with the visa to the immigration officer at the port of entry.
- Your entry stamp will be placed on your passport.
- Be prepared to show copies of other documents submitted as part of your application.
- Answer any basic questions about your visit honestly and without hesitation.
When You Enter Namibia:
- While on a tourist permit, you are not allowed to work for a Namibian company or engage in business activities.
- You may have the option to extend this type of visa.
- Carry a copy of your passport and visa while traveling within the country.
- Respect the culture, customs, and immigration laws of Namibia during your stay.
Frequently Asked Questions
In most cases, it is possible to extend a tourist permit. You can apply for an extension by submitting an application to the Namibian immigration department. However, it is essential to apply for the extension well before your visa expires. If you are unable to obtain an extension within the allotted time, you must leave the country.
Staying in Namibia after your tourist permit expires is not allowed. According to regulations, you are expected to leave the country before the exact expiration date indicated on your visa. Overstaying can result in fines and even deportation.
The Namibian High Commission’s requirements do not specify medical test requirements for tourist permits. However, if you are traveling through a yellow fever-affected country, you will need a yellow fever certificate. It is advisable to undergo a medical check-up before traveling to a new country.
No, it is not possible to convert a tourist visa into an employment permit. These two categories are independent of each other. Additionally, working while on a tourist visa is not allowed. If you require an employment permit, you must apply for one in your home country upon your return.
The Namibian High Commission’s requirements do not specify a specific amount for a tourist visa application. However, applicants are expected to possess sufficient funds to cover their entire stay in Namibia. Ensure that your funds are easily accessible, and maintain a stable transaction history.
While the processing time for a Namibian tourist permit is typically around 15 working days, it can take longer depending on various factors. Therefore, it is advisable to apply well in advance. As a general recommendation, it is suggested to apply at least a month before your intended travel date.