Eino Vatileni
The launch was officiated by minister of home affairs Albert
Kawana in Windhoek.
He said this was triggered by a boom in tourism.
The number of tourists visiting Namibia is partly thanks to
measures the government has put in place, such as online visas and visas on
arrival, Kawana said.
Previously, visas on arrival were only possible at Hosea
Kutako International Airport, followed by Walvis Bay Airport, and the Katima
Mulilo, Ngoma, Impalila Island and Trans-Kalahari border posts.
“I am also pleased to inform the nation that the
Oshikango/Santa Clara border posts will soon operate on a 24-hour basis,”
Kawana said.
He said he has no doubt that the Ohangwena, and //Kharas
regions would experience increased tourist arrivals through the five selected
border posts.
“Upon entry into Namibia, our visitors are requested to pay
for their visas online, because we have installed speedpoints at designated
border points. The money is paid directly into the state revenue account,
thereby eliminating temptations associated with handling cash,” he said.
Kawana said tourists from countries where Namibia has no
diplomatic representation no longer need to apply in advance before departing
their countries.
He said the government has exempted over 60 countries
worldwide from visa requirements when visiting Namibia for tourism purposes.
In 2019, 45 countries’ nationals started benefiting from
visas on arrival.
During 2023, 11 countries were added to the list.
“Today, 58 countries can receive visas on arrival,” Kawana
said.
He said this arrangement excludes people coming to Namibia
for work purposes, who would still require a visa.
“Upon approval of the visa application, the immigration officer will request the applicant to make a payment of N$1 200,” he said.