Namibia will require the visas from the citizens of USA, Canada, UK, Germany and 29 other countries, travelling to the country, beginning from April 2025. The policy was introduced in well response to stressful visa processes for Namibians who want to travel to these countries.
From April 2025, Namibia will require visitors from 33 Western countries, who will include Canada, UK, US and Germany, to obtain visas. The shift in policy is a move towards ensuring diplomatic parity as Namibia adopts a tit-for-tat approach in response to nations that have not reciprocated its visa-free travel arrangements.
According to immigration ministry of Namibia, the decision aims to ensure the fairness in diplomatic interactions, following the extended gestures of goodwill that were not reciprocated.
The new visa requirement comes amid high Schengen visa rejection rates for African nations, highlighting the challenges faced by Namibians and other Africans in securing the travel visas.
Despite their concerns about the potential impact on tourism, the significant contributor to Namibia’s GDP, experts believe the process and will remain manageable for travelers, with vistas that are still obtainable on arrival.
As per the sources, the move underscores the Namibia’s effort to balance diplomatic relations while maintaining its tourism industry.
This decision by Namibia stems from a desire for fairness in diplomatic relations. According to Namibia’s immigration ministry, the country has extended favourable treatment to various nations without receiving similar benefits in return. The visa requirement is a response to ensure parity and fairness in international interactions.
Considering this, the ministry stated, “In light of this disparity, the government has deemed it necessary to implement a visa requirement to ensure parity and fairness in diplomatic interactions.”
The decision will impact the tourism and travellers greatly. The visa requirement may seem daunting, and it may not significantly disrupt the travel plans.
However, the tourists can still obtain a 90-day visa on arrival in Namibia, simplifying the process for many. Also, African passport holders will need to secure their visas in advance.
Notably, the Hospitality Association of Namibia has expressed the concerns about the potential impact on tourism, which accounts for around 7% of Namibia’s GDP. As the third-largest contributor to the economy, tourism is vital and any barriers could affect this sector.