Namibia

When traveling to Namibia, your nationality and the types of activities you will conduct during your trip will determine whether you may travel lawfully as a business visitor or if work authorization will be required. Please seek advice from your immigration counsel if you are uncertain about the specific types of activities that constitute business or work.

What types of activities may I engage in as a business visitor?

As a business visitor to Namibia, you may engage in the activities below. While this list is not exhaustive and other activities could qualify as business, you may:

• » Conduct business meetings
• » Attend training
• » Explore business opportunities
• » Attend a trade show or seminar convention

If I qualify as a business visitor, do I need a visa for Namibia?

Most foreign nationals who intend to travel to Namibia to conduct short-term business activities are required to obtain a Business Visa from a Namibian Embassy or Consulate prior to travel.

While some nationalities may be eligible for a visa waiver for entry, business activities are not permitted without a visa.

Some select nationalities may be eligible for a visa on arrival (Visitor’s Entry Permit) for business purposes; however, it is generally recommended that all business travelers obtain a consular visa prior to travel. Please consult with your immigration counsel before traveling to determine eligibility for a Business Visa or visa on arrival.

What types of activities require work authorization?

The activities below, whether paid or unpaid, generally constitute work under Namibian law. This list is not exhaustive, and many other professional activities are considered work in Namibia, even if conducted for a short duration.

• » Hands-on technical work
• » Repairs and maintenance
• » Project planning and implementation
• » Installation and testing of software
• » Consulting

If I am traveling to Namibia for work, what type of work authorization do I need?

Requirements for work authorization depend on your qualifications, on the nature and duration of your work, and on whether your employer has an entity in Namibia. The most common types of work authorization for Namibia are:

• » Short-Term Work Visa (work authorization for short-term stays up to 90 days)
• » Long-Term Work Permit (work authorization for stays longer than 90 days)

Is it possible to be exempted from work authorization requirements?

There are no available exemptions to work authorization requirements in Namibia.

Inevitably, the legal and strategic considerations impacting visa selection, as well as visa waiver and work authorization eligibility, entail the careful consideration of many factors. We recommend that you consult with your immigration counsel before taking any course of action.

Copyright © 2022 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. Government immigration agencies often change their policies and practices without notice; please consult an immigration professional for up-to-date information. This document does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. BAL maintains comprehensive immigration information and processing specifics for our clients.