Government ready for new visa policy, minister says
Although the Minister of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security, Albert Kawana, says there is room for improvement regarding his ministry’s ability to secure documentation submitted digitally for visas, he says everything is in place for the implementation of the new visa policy that will come into effect on 1 April.Kawana argues that the principle of a reciprocal visa policy is of utmost importance. “There are countries where our compatriots are treated worse than criminals – even if you have a visa and proof of your residence.
“The principle of mutual interest is very important because we do not treat those people badly when they come here. On the contrary, we have a special unit in our police specifically for the safety of our visitors,” he says.
Regarding the funds generated from visa payments, Kawana explained: “That money goes directly to the government’s account, and it reduces the chances of corruption. So those people who may be used to getting loans from that money, there are no more loans – you have to go to the bank.”
New regulations
Visitors from African countries that do not exempt Namibians from their visa rules will now pay U$70 (about N$1 200) for a visa and those from overseas countries U$90 (about N$1 600).
The visas will also allow multiple entries, meaning visitors will be able to cross the border and re-enter Namibia if the visa does not expire within that period.
Visas are valid for 90 days from their date of issue, but extensions are also offered by the ministry.
Those applying for visas on arrival must present the following documentation:
* a valid passport with at least three blank pages;
* a completed visa application form;
* confirmation of accommodation (hotel reservations or an invitation letter);
* confirmation of sufficient funds;
* an itinerary;
* medical insurance;
* a complete birth certificate or parental consent if travelling with a minor; and
* proof of an approved visa application.
However, there is confusion over visa applications on arrival which are only offered at 12 border posts, while the e-portal for visa applications is not available at 15 border posts, including Mata-Mata and Vioolsdrift.
FENATA, NIPDB
The deputy chairperson of the Namibia Tourism Association (Fenata), Delphin Ilunga, at the launch of the new visa policy as well as the e-portal for visa applications, said the new policy minimises the negative impact that concerns have been raised following consultations with industry stakeholders.
The CEO of the Namibia Investment and Development Promotion Board (NIPDB), Nangula Uaandja, believes the tourism industry is capable of more than the N$14.3 billion it currently contributes to the economy.
“We also know that many of our investors are people who have visited Namibia before and were captivated by the country,” she said. – [email protected]