Namibia has long been one of those bucket-list destinations that feels like a dream. From the towering red dunes of Sossusvlei to the haunting shipwrecks of the Skeleton Coast, this southern African gem offers the kind of wild, untamed beauty you won’t soon forget. But if you’re an American traveler planning a trip to Namibia in 2025, there’s an important update you need to know before you start packing your bags.
As of April 1, 2025, U.S. citizens must now obtain a visa to enter Namibia a shift from the previous visa-free policy. So, what does this mean for your adventure plans? Don’t worry here’s everything you need to know, laid out clearly so you can get back to dreaming about desert safaris and coastal sunsets.
First Things First: Yes, You Still Can Visit Namibia!
Namibia hasn’t closed its doors to American travelers far from it. But you’ll now need to take an extra step or two before arrival.
Option 1: Apply for an eVisa Before You Go (Recommended)
If you’re someone who likes to have everything in order before your trip, this is the route for you. Namibia now offers an electronic visa (eVisa), which you can apply for online. It’s fast, simple, and gives you peace of mind before you even board your flight.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- A valid passport (with at least 6 months left and 3 blank pages)
- A recent passport-style photo
- Your travel itinerary and accommodation details
- A printed copy of the approved eVisa to show on arrival
It’s super helpful to apply in advance especially during busy travel seasons.
Option 2: Visa on Arrival
Not the planning-ahead type? Good news — you can still get a visa on arrival at major entry points like:
- Hosea Kutako International Airport (Windhoek)
- Walvis Bay Airport
- Key land borders like Katima Mulilo and Ngoma
The fee is N$1,600, which is around USD $88. Be prepared to wait in line, though, and make sure you have all your paperwork to avoid delays.
What to Bring with You
Whether you go the eVisa or visa-on-arrival route, make sure you also have:
- A passport valid for at least 6 months
- Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or host invitation)
- A return or onward ticket
- Evidence of enough funds to cover your stay
- Travel insurance (always a smart move)
- Your printed visa approval (if applying online)
Traveling with Kids?
Traveling with minors? Namibia may request additional documentation, like birth certificates and parental consent letters. Make sure to check the latest requirements well before your trip.
Why the Change?
Namibia’s government introduced these new rules to ensure reciprocity in visa policies in other words, Namibians don’t get visa-free entry to the U.S., so Americans now need a visa to visit Namibia. Fair game, right?
Still Worth the Trip? 100% Yes.
Honestly? Namibia is still absolutely worth the effort. Getting a visa might be a minor speed bump, but it’s a small price to pay for the experience of stargazing in the Namib Desert, tracking elephants across dry riverbeds, or watching flamingos take flight in Walvis Bay.
Just give yourself a little extra prep time, sort out your visa early, and go soak up everything this incredible country has to offer.
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