When you think of the “red desert,” many people imagine the Namib Desert. Namibia’s popularity has been steadily rising, attracting countless tourists from around the world. Up until now, Namibia has been one of the easiest countries to travel to, with many nationals able to enter visa-free.

However, starting April 1, 2025, citizens of 31 countries will need to apply for a visa to enter Namibia. This list includes major tourism contributors like the UK, the US, Japan, and others.

The visa application fee is set at N$1,600 (approximately 88 USD), which is somewhat on the high side.

Why Now?

While Namibia has welcomed many foreign visitors without requiring a visa, Namibian citizens have faced strict visa restrictions when traveling abroad. Recently, countries like the UK have tightened their visa regulations even further. In response, Namibia decided to implement this policy change.

While there are concerns about the impact on the country’s vital tourism industry, this measure could also help manage over-tourism.

Although the new visa requirement raises the bar for entry, we hope it will result in a more enjoyable and less crowded experience for everyone visiting Namibia!