A frequent trip between Zambia and Namibia is often made for business, leisure, and family visits. Even though the two countries share a border and maintain a strong relationship, travelers must understand the exact entry rules, especially those entering Namibia for work—to avoid delays or complications at the border. Whether you are crossing through Katima Mulilo or arriving by air into Windhoek, having your documents prepared is the first step toward a smooth journey.
This guide explains everything Zambian travelers need to know about the Namibia eVisa for Zambian Citizens , including short-term work permissions, travel rules, and general entry requirements. It serves as a clear reference to help you plan confidently and avoid unnecessary issues during your trip.
What are different types of visas?
Understanding which category suits your travel purpose is vital, as applying for the wrong type can lead to immediate rejection or deportation.
1. Short Term Work Visa – Required for Zambian professionals entering Namibia for any work-related activity, even short assignments.
Covers activities like consulting, technical repairs, short contracts, or temporary projects.
Cannot be replaced by a holiday entry stamp; work entry requires this visa.
Usually valid for up to 90 days and non-renewable.
Designed for urgent, short-term jobs, not long-term employment.
2.Holiday Visa – Zambian citizens enjoy visa-free entry to Namibia for tourism, due to SADC arrangements.
Allows stays of up to 90 days for holiday purposes.
Useful to understand requirements if traveling with non-Zambian family members or if travel rules change.
Intended strictly for tourism, visiting friends, or medical visits.
Employment of any kind is not allowed under this visa.
What documents are required to travel to Namibia?
Preparing your documents digitally is the key to a fast application. Make sure every file is clear, readable, and in color. This helps you meet the Document requirement for Namibia eVisa and reduces the chances of delays during the review process.
1. Valid Passport:Your passport is your primary identification.
Validity: It must have at least 6 months of validity remaining from your date of entry.
Pages: Ensure you have a minimum of 2 blank pages for endorsement stamps.
Condition: The booklet must be in good condition with no water damage or torn pages.
2. Passport Photos:You cannot use a casual selfie. The photo must meet strict international standards.
Recency: Taken within the last 6 months.
Background: Must be a plain white background.
Format: Clear, high-quality digital format (JPEG/PNG) without filters or eyewear that obstructs the face.
3. Travel Itinerary:Immigration officials need to know your movements.
Tickets: Confirmed return or onward tickets proving you intend to leave Namibia.
Plan: A detailed travel plan outlining your daily activities or work schedule.
Accommodation: Confirmed hotel bookings or an invitation letter from your host in Namibia with their residential address.
4. Financial Proof:You must prove you can support yourself without becoming a burden on the state.
Bank Statements: Certified statements from the last 6 months.
Credit/Debit: Proof of credit card limits or available funds.
Sponsorship: If your Zambian or Namibian employer is covering costs, a guarantee letter is required.
How long will it take for my visa to be approved?
Planning your timeline is essential. While timelines can vary based on volume, these are the standard operational windows for eVisa processing.
Normal Processing (6-9 Working Days): Best for planners who have their trip scheduled weeks in advance.
Rush Processing (4-7 Working Days): Ideal if your trip is approaching next week.
Super Rush Processing (3-5 Working Days): Designed for emergency business trips where every hour counts.
How to Apply for Namibia eVisa?
The application process is designed to be simple, allowing Zambian travelers to Apply for Namibia eVisa in a smooth and straightforward way.
Fill the Form: Enter personal details, passport data, and travel dates accurately. Match the names exactly as they appear on your passport.
Upload Documents: Attach your digital passport scan, photo, and supporting proofs.
Pay the Fee: Use a credit or debit card to pay the processing fee.
Receive Approval: Once approved, the eVisa is sent to your email. Print this out to show at the border.
What is the difference between eVisa and VOA?
For Zambians who might require a visa (for non-exempt categories) or for those traveling with non-exempt colleagues, understanding the difference is key.
How do I know my visa category?
While tourists might skip this, the eVisa is the superior choice for specific travelers.
The Namibia eVisa is best for:
Travelers who prefer all arrangements settled before departure, including families, business visitors, and first-timers.
Families with Children: If any family member requires a visa, applying online avoids managing tired kids in long airport queues.
Business Travelers: For Zambians on work assignments, the eVisa (Work Permit) is mandatory. Arriving without it means you cannot legally work.
First-Time Visitors: Having a pre-approved document gives you peace of mind before you even board your flight.
Organized Planners: If you like your itinerary locked in, the eVisa integrates seamlessly into your travel plans.
Choosing the eVisa lets you arrive confidently with pre-approved entry and a smoother arrival experience.
Is the yellow fever vaccine still required?
Yes, this is a critical requirement. If you are traveling from Zambia (or have transited through a country with risk of Yellow Fever), you must present a valid Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate at the Namibian border. Failure to produce this card is a common reason for denied entry.
Which airports can I enter Namibia with an eVisa?
While you can enter Namibia through various borders, the eVisa systems are most optimized at major ports of entry.
Hosea Kutako International Airport (Windhoek)
Walvis Bay International Airport
Katima Mulilo Border Post (Major crossing for Zambians)
Trans-Kalahari Border Post
Conclusion
The entry requirements into Namibia by the Zambian citizens are easy to get around as long as you know the difference between holiday visit and work assignment. As much as you are actually enjoying the privilege of visa-free tourism, do not ever think this is applicable during business operations. To be on the safe side, a Short Term Work eVisa will keep you covered in matters of law and it will also keep your business dealings running smoothly. With the right documents, i.e. valid passport, clear photos and evidence of funds you will save yourself the hassles of traveling to your neighbor in the west.
