April 02, (THEWILL) – Namibia has scrapped its visa-free entry policy for travelers from 33 countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, France, Germany, and Japan.
The decision, which took effect on April 1, 2025, stems from the absence of reciprocal agreements. Previously, citizens from these nations could visit Namibia without a visa, while Namibians were required to apply for visas when traveling to these countries.
In a statement, the country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the new policy aims to enforce fairness and reciprocity in visa agreements.
“The government seeks to create a more balanced and equitable visa system,” the statement read.
The policy shift comes shortly after Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah assumed office as Namibia’s first female president, signaling a new diplomatic approach under her administration.
To ease the transition, the Namibian government has introduced an electronic visa (e-Visa) system, allowing travelers to apply online via eservices.mhaiss.gov.na.
The platform enables users to complete the entire process digitally, including account creation, application submission, document uploads, and online payment.
Since its launch in March 2025, over 10,000 e-visas have been issued, streamlining travel for tourists and business visitors.
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