In a move to uphold diplomatic fairness, Namibia has taken a decisive step by removing 31 nations from its visa-exempt list. This decision stems from these countries’ failure to offer reciprocal visa requirements for Namibian citizens
The affected countries are :
- Armenia
- Austria
- Azerbaijan
- Belarus
- Belgium
- Canada
- Denmark
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Italy
- Japan
- Kazakhstan
- Kyrgyzstan
- Liechtenstein
- Luxemburg
- Moldova
- Netherland
- Norway
- Portugal
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Tajikistan
- Turkmenistan
- Ukraine
- United Kingdom
- United States of America
- And Uzbekistan
Henceforth, nationals from these affected countries will be required to complete an online application form and obtain visas-on-arrival.
While the standard visa fee is anticipated to be NAD1,200 (R1,200/€59/$64), specific details regarding the implementation date and application procedures will be communicated through diplomatic channels at a later stage.
The tourism sector, which accounts for a significant 6.9% of Namibia’s GDP, is a crucial aspect of the nation’s economy.
European markets, in particular, heavily rely on Namibia’s tourism industry. However, visitors from these markets may now face the additional requirement of obtaining visas upon arrival.
Namibia’s government has justified this measure as necessary to ensure parity and fairness in diplomatic interactions.
It’s important to note that Namibia’s intent is not to impede legitimate travel but rather to establish reciprocity in international relations. .
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By implementing these visa requirements, the government aims to foster balanced and equitable diplomatic engagements.
