To help prepare visitors for their trip to Botswana, we’ve detailed the key elements for a visa for Botswana, if a visa is required, how to apply and how much it costs.
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Visa for Botswana and other requirements
Visitors from multiple countries may enter Botswana visa-free for up to 90 days within a 12-month period including nationals of all EU member states/
Visitors are also advised to consult with their immigration office to be aware of any new entry or Covid-19 requirements, which may require a negative PCR test.
Understanding the best time to visit Botswana is useful as this can impact visa processing times, safari prices and availability.
U.S. visitors visa and passport
Citizens of the United States do not require a tourist visa to enter Botswana. U.S. citizens are permitted stays up to 90 days multiple entry total within a 12-month period without a visa.
A popular destination with newlyweds going on safari tours, the country offers all the pampering and comforts one would expect on a Botswana honeymoon safari and the total stay permitted for each visit is recorded on the entry stamp by Botswana immigration officials and may be less than 90 days.
A passport with at least six months of validity remaining is required. Further information available via the US State Department.
Air travel has resumed to and from Sir Seretse Khama International Airport in Gaborone, Maun International Airport, Kasane International Airport and G. Matante International Airport in Francistown for safari visitors to the Okavango Delta and Chobe NP wondering how to get to Botswana.
U.K. visitors visa and passport
British nationals do not normally need a visa to enter Botswana for stays of up to 90 days.
Overstaying can cause delays on departure. Visitors wishing to extend their stay can seek an extension from the Department of Immigration.
Visitors’ passports should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into Botswana.
For citizens of other nations, a visa may be obtained prior to arrival, full list of countries whose citizens do and who do not require a visa to enter Botswana and travel information.
South African visitors visa and passport
A visa to Botswana from South Africa is not required for South African citizens crossing into Botswana.
Australian visitors visa and passport
A Botswana tourist visa is not required for citizens of Australia for a stay up to 90 days. Visitors’ passports should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into Botswana.
Canadian visitors visa and passport
A Botswana tourist visa is not required for citizens of Canada for a stay up to 90 days. Visitors’ passports should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into Botswana.
Visa summary by country
| Passport holder | Visa required? | Length of stay | Other requirements |
| United States | No | 90 days | Passport valid for at least 6 months |
| United Kingdom | No | 90 days | Passport valid for at least 6 months |
| EU countries | No | 90 days | Passport valid for at least 6 months |
| Switzerland | No | 90 days | Passport valid for at least 6 months |
| Canada | No | 90 days | Passport valid for at least 6 months |
| Australia | No | 90 days | Passport valid for at least 6 months |
| South Africa | No | 90 days | Passport valid for at least 6 months |
Other requirements
Families travelling with minors under 18 years of age will need to carry a certified unabridged birth certificate and if travelling with only one parent or legal guardian an affidavit consenting to travel by both parents must be carried.
This letter must give consent for one parent or guardian to travel with the minor.
Visitors should also be aware of vaccine requirements and Covid-19 entry regulations including
- Anti-malaria treatment is recommended
- Yellow fever vaccine is recommended
- DTPP, hepatitis B, typhoid, hepatitis A vaccines are recommended
To find out more, read our article dedicated to vaccines in Botswana.
Applying for your Botswana visa
Citizens of countries that are not from the U.S, U.K, Australia, Canada and South Africa are advised to check with the embassy or consulate services in order to establish their visa requirements.
Such visitors may be required to submit a written visa application form or submit an online visa application, obtaining a visa upon arrival or via a specialized travel agency.
A visit to the Botswana embassy may be required for some citizens as well as travel documents and details including and an online application may be required via the Botswana eVisa website with a fully completed visa application form (Form 1) and visa fees.
Carrying a small amount of Botswana currency, the Pula (BWP) is useful when paying for items where credit card facilities are unavailable.
Useful visa contacts
FAQs
Do visitors need a visa for Botswana?
U.S, U.K, EU, Australian and Canadian nationals can enter Botswana visa-free for up to 90 days within a 12-month period. Nationals from other countries can check visa requirements here.
Any other entry requirements for visitors to Botswana?
Visitors should adhere to the latest Covid-19 entry requirements which may require a negative PCR test and hold a passport valid for at least six months. Families travelling with minors under 18 years of age will need to carry a certified unabridged birth cert.