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IN BRIEF
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For years, Namibia has amazed lovers of breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable safaris. However, a new regulation is disrupting the journey of French travelers: starting on April 1, 2025, they will need to apply for a visa to discover this popular destination. This measure also concerns 32 other countries, marking a turning point in the country’s accessibility for tourists. A change that raises questions about the new formalities to follow before packing their bags for this wild and captivating land.
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Starting April 1, 2025, French nationals and those from other countries will no longer have the option to travel to Namibia without a visa. This new rule, which applies to tourists wishing to spend less than 90 days in the country, marks a turning point in the entry policies of this African gem. Let’s explore the details of this regulation and what it implies for your future travels.
The new visa application procedures #
With the implementation of this measure, all travelers coming from France will need to apply for a visa before their arrival. However, good news, this process can be done online through a dedicated website. Additionally, a visa on arrival will also be available at the main airports and border posts of the country. For safari lovers and admirers of grand landscapes, it will cost you no less than 1,600 Namibian dollars, approximately 83 euros.
Why is Namibia changing its entry rules?
This decision is not merely an administrative formality. Namibian authorities justify this backward step by a desire to reduce economic dependencies on its neighbors and to explore other sources of revenue. Indeed, the tourism sector, which accounts for about 7% of the GDP, could greatly benefit from the additional revenue generated by the visa requirement. By adding this cost to several hundred thousand visitors each year, Namibia hopes to strengthen its economy.
The consequences for travelers #
For French tourists, this change raises several questions. While Namibia has been a favored destination for its ecotourism and breathtaking landscapes, the necessity of a visa could discourage some travelers. For those with a taste for adventure and a desire to discover the spectacular dunes of the Namib Desert or to explore the wildlife of the national parks, this extra cost will need to be integrated into their travel budget.
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Preparing for the trip
It is therefore crucial for future visitors to find out about the conditions for obtaining the visa, particularly regarding passport validity, which must remain valid for at least six months after their return date. Travelers will also need to ensure compliance with other security and health requirements before stepping foot on this fascinating land.
There is no doubt that these new rules will impact how the French view their travels to Namibia. However, for those willing to take up the challenge and discover the natural beauty of this country, the magic of Namibia remains within reach, even with a visa in hand.
