All visitors to Botswana must be in possession of a passport that is valid for at least 6 months.
Valid entry visas for the countries that require them can be obtained from the various Botswana embassies and high commissions abroad. Allow at least 21 working days for visa processing.Travellers should ensure that there are at least 2 blank visa pages in their passport for entry and exit stamps.Entry visas obtained from the border posts are valid for a maximum of 30-90 days. These border issued visas are for selected countries it is advisable to obtain visas before travelling.
Please bring a hard copy (printed) of your visa, as some Botswana border posts do not have the ability to electronically verify a visa on your phone.
Extensions may be obtained from any migration office in Botswana.
No visitor to Botswana is allowed to stay for longer than 90 days a year, unless special permission is given in the form of a waiver pending the outcome of a residence permit application.
Passport holders of certain countries do not need a visa to enter Botswana, and exempt countries have been listed by the Embassy of the Republic of Botswana
Travelling With Children
As of 1 October 2016 minors travelling through Botswana's borders are required to produce certified copies of unabridged birth certificates in addition to their valid passports. If the child is travelling with one parent, the other parent's affidavit consenting to such travel should be presented. An affidavit is not required if the father's name does not appear on the child's birth certificate.Summary of requirements for parents travelling with children below the age of 18:
- Valid Passports
- Certified unabridged birth certificate for all minors
- A letter of consent from the other parent should the minor be travelling with only one parent.
Visas and passports are the responsibility of the traveller. It is best to consult with the high commission of the country being travelled to in the country being travelled from as requirements vary and change constantly.
Siyabona Africa will not be held responsible for any incomplete or incorrect information regarding the passport or visa process gathered by the traveller.
