Travellers planning to visit Botswana should confirm current visa requirements before booking their trip. While a visa on arrival was once available, that option no longer stands - travellers who require a visa must obtain one before departing for Botswana.
Who Needs a Visa to Visit Botswana?
Botswana permits visa-free entry for citizens of certain countries travelling for tourism or short visits. Travellers holding passports from these countries may enter Botswana without a visa, subject to the standard entry requirements at the border.
Travellers should review the Botswana Visa eligibility criteria to confirm whether their nationality requires a visa.
Alternatives to the Botswana Visa on Arrival
Travellers who require a visa must obtain it before travel through one of the following options:
Visa Through Embassy/Consulate
Applicants submit visa applications in person at a Botswana embassy or consulate for processing.
Botswana eVisa
Eligible travellers may apply for the Botswana eVisa through the online application system before travel.
Botswana eVisa Requirements
Botswana eVisa document requirements vary by nationality and visa type. Most applications require the following core documents.
- A valid passport with at least 6 months of validity from the date of arrival
- A recent digital applicant photo
How to Apply for Botswana eVisa
- Complete the Botswana eVisa application form
- Upload the required documents
- Pay the Botswana eVisa fee
- Receive the approved eVisa by email
Note: Travellers should print a copy of the approved eVisa and present it upon arrival in Botswana.
Processing Options for Botswana eVisa
Botswana eVisa applicants select a processing speed during the application process.
Rush processing options provide faster application review.
- Normal Processing: Approximately 25 - 30 Working Days
- Rush Processing: Approximately 20 - 25 Working Days
- Super Rush Processing: Approximately 18 - 22 Working Days
Botswana eVisa Validity and Stay Duration
Visa validity and permitted stay duration depend on the visa type issued.
Travellers should review the Botswana eVisa validity and stay duration to ensure travel dates fall within the approved entry period and permitted stay limit.
FAQs
Yes. Entry into Botswana remains subject to immigration checks at the border.
Applicants should submit the eVisa application several weeks before departure to allow sufficient processing time.
No. Travellers must obtain their visa approval before arriving in Botswana.
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