Botswana Tourist eVisa

Whether you’re planning an unforgettable safari adventure or looking forward to exploring Botswana’s lively cities, getting your travel documents sorted is a key step. That’s where the Botswana Tourist eVisa comes in! This digital travel authorization makes entering Botswana smoother and more convenient. But how do you apply, and what should you know beforehand? Let’s break it down!

Botswana Tourist eVisa

WELCOME TO BOTSWANA

Botswana—a landlocked gem in Southern Africa—is celebrated for its stunning wilderness, sprawling deserts, and abundant wildlife. From the sweeping sands of the Kalahari Desert to the lush wetlands of the Okavango Delta, this remarkable destination offers an unforgettable journey into nature’s pristine beauty. With its rich culture, welcoming locals, and breathtaking landscapes, Botswana invites travellers to embrace both adventure and serenity.

Climate: Semi-arid, with hot summers and mild, dry winters.

Language: English (official), Setswana (widely spoken).

Currency: Botswana Pula (BWP)

What is the Botswana Tourist eVisa?

The Botswana eVisa is an online travel authorization that allows foreign nationals to visit Botswana for tourism purposes. By moving the process online, the system simplifies the visa application journey, letting you apply from the comfort of your home—no more embassy visits!

Eligible Nationalities for Botswana Tourist eVisa

When applying for a Botswana tourist eVisa, eligibility depends on your nationality. Here's a detailed overview:

1. Visa-Exempt Countries

Citizens from visa-exempt countries can enter Botswana without a visa for short stays, usually up to 90 days per year. Common visa-exempt nationalities include those from most Southern African Development Community (SADC) member states, such as South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Eswatini.

2. Visa-Required Countries

Nationals of countries not on the visa-exempt list must apply for a tourist eVisa in advance. Countries commonly requiring an eVisa include India, China, Nigeria, and Pakistan, among others.

3. Special Cases

Dual citizens must apply based on the nationality of the passport they intend to use when entering Botswana. Some travellers, such as diplomatic or official passport holders from certain countries, may also be eligible for visa exemptions or special entry permissions.

Knowing your visa status is essential for a smooth entry into Botswana. If you're uncertain, visit the Botswana Visa Policy page to find a detailed list of nationalities eligible for an e-Visa or those requiring a different visa type.

Validity and Duration of Stay

The Tourist eVisa comes in 2 types:

Visa Type	No. of Entries	Max. Stay	Validity
Tourist eVisa	Single	30 Days	30 Days
Tourist eVisa	Multiple	90 Days	90 Days

Botswana Tourist eVisa Requirements

To apply for a Botswana Tourist eVisa, applicants must ensure they meet the following requirements and provide all the necessary documents:

1. General Requirements

Valid Passport:	Must have a minimum validity of 6 months from the intended date of entry. Must have at least three blank pages for visa stamps.
Recent Photograph:	A recent passport-sized photograph in JPG format. File size must be no more than 30KB.
Language of Documents:	All supporting documents must be in English. All documents must be certified copies.
File Upload Format:	All supporting documents must be compiled into one PDF file. The PDF file must not exceed 5MB in size.
Payment Method:	Only VISA/MasterCard is accepted for online payments. The card must be enabled for online transactions.
Special Instructions:	If the applicant does not have a first name or surname, use an apostrophe (') in the required fields.

2. Mandatory Supporting Documents

Passport Copy:	A certified copy of the first and second pages of the passport (showing bio-data and passport validity).
Photographs:	Two recent colored passport-sized photographs.
Cover Letter:	A cover letter stating the purpose of the visit.
Travel Itinerary:	A detailed trip itinerary outlining the planned activities.
Flight Information:	Copy of flight bookings (to and from Botswana).
Accommodation Details:	Proof of hotel/lodge bookings or a residential address in Botswana if staying with a host.
Re-entry Permit:	If the applicant is a resident of another country and requires a re-entry permit to return, this must be provided.
Intent to Depart:	Proof demonstrating an intention to leave Botswana after the visit (such as a return ticket).

How to Apply for a Botswana Tourist eVisa?

Fantastic news! Applying for a Botswana Tourist eVisa has never been easier. You can now complete the process effortlessly through Botswana eVisas by following these three simple steps:

Detailed Application Process for Botswana Tourist eVisa

Applying for a Botswana Tourist eVisa online is simple! Follow these steps to complete your application:

Access the eVisa Portal & Start Application: Visit the official Botswana eVisa portal and click "Apply eVisa." This initiates the online application process.
Register Your Details: Create an account by providing your name, email address, and nationality. This registration allows you to access and manage your application.
Select Visa Type & Fill Application: Choose "Tourism" as your visa type. Then, meticulously complete the online Botswana visa application form with your personal details, travel information, and passport information.
Upload Required Documents: Upload essential documents, including a certified copy of your passport's bio-data page, a recent passport-size photo, and any other supporting documents as specified.
Pay the Visa Fee: Securely pay the visa fee using a credit or debit card through the online payment gateway.
Submit & Receive Notification: Submit your completed application. Upon approval, you will receive an email notification. Download and print your approved eVisa for presentation upon arrival in Botswana.

Carry the printed eVisa during your travel, as you may be asked to present it at the Botswana border.

Track Your Tourist eVisa Status in Real Time

Designed with your convenience in mind, our system lets you track your visa application status in real-time—making your travel process smoother and stress-free from start to finish!

Botswana Tourist eVisa Processing Time

Wondering how long it takes to get your Tourist eVisa? The processing time can vary based on factors like the type of visa you’re applying for, how complete your application is, and how many applications are in the queue. Generally, the processing time ranges from 25 - 30 Working Days , but in some cases, it could take a bit longer.

To make things more flexible and convenient for travellers, the Botswana eVisa program offers three processing options:

Processing Option	Processing Time	Best For
Standard Processing	25 - 30 Working Days	Travellers with plenty of time before their trip.
Rush Processing	20 - 25 Working Days	Travellers with more urgent plans.
Super Rush Processing	18 - 22 Working Days	Those needing their visa approved as quickly as possible!

Botswana Tourist eVisa Fees – What to Expect

The cost of a Botswana Tourist eVisa depends on a few important factors:

Visa Type: Fees vary depending on whether you’re applying for a single-entry or multiple-entry visa and how long you plan to stay. Some countries may also benefit from reduced fees due to diplomatic agreements.
Processing Options: Standard processing is the most budget-friendly, while Rush and Super Rush options offer faster service at an additional cost.

To get the most up-to-date and detailed information, visit the Botswana Visa Fee page, where you’ll find a clear breakdown of the costs based on all key factors.

Top Must-Visit Places in Botswana

Okavango Delta

The Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the world’s largest inland deltas, filled with waterways, islands, and wildlife-rich floodplains. Visitors can take peaceful rides in traditional mokoro canoes, gliding through the calm waters. Guided bush walks offer close encounters with nature, and wildlife spotting is a must, with elephants, lions, hippos, and other animals thriving in this lush environment.

Chobe National Park

Famous for its large elephant population, Chobe National Park is a wildlife lover’s dream. A sunset boat cruise along the river reveals elephants, hippos, and crocodiles in their natural habitat. Visitors can also enjoy safaris to see the Big Five—lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffalo. With over 450 bird species, Chobe is also a paradise for birdwatchers.

Moremi Game Reserve

Known for its diverse wildlife and stunning scenery, Moremi Game Reserve offers unforgettable adventures. Game drives give visitors the chance to spot antelopes, zebras, and predators, while walking safaris provide an immersive experience in the reserve’s untouched wilderness.

Central Kalahari Game Reserve

One of the largest game reserves in the world, the Central Kalahari is known for its vast open plains and starry night skies. Visitors can see the iconic black-maned lions roaming the desert and connect with the San people to learn about their traditions and survival skills.

Makgadikgadi Pans

The Makgadikgadi Pans are vast white salt flats that create a surreal landscape. Visitors can enjoy thrilling quad bike rides across the plains. During the wet season, the pans come alive with flamingos and other wildlife, offering an unforgettable sight.

Tsodilo Hills

The Tsodilo Hills are a sacred site for the San people and hold great cultural significance. Scenic hikes lead visitors to ancient rock paintings dating back thousands of years, showcasing the region’s rich history and spiritual heritage.

Travel Tips for Botswana

Health and Safety: Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and follow your guide’s instructions.

Packing Essentials: Bring lightweight clothing, a good pair of binoculars, and insect repellent.

Apply for Your Visa with Botswana eVisas

With years of expertise in visa services, Botswana eVisas is here to ensure your e-visa journey is as smooth as possible! We take pride in making the process simple and stress-free by helping you get all your documents perfectly prepared, which can significantly boost your chances of approval.

What We Offer:

By choosing Botswana eVisas, you’ll enjoy friendly, reliable support at every step of your visa application process, including:

Personalized guidance on your eVisa application.
Reviewing and verifying your provided information.
Keeping you updated on your application status and results.
Collecting the approved eVisa from the authorities on your behalf.
Delivering the eVisa straight to you!

Say goodbye to the headaches of complicated paperwork! With our team by your side, you can focus on planning your exciting trip instead.

Prefer to handle things yourself? You can also apply independently via the official government website if you're looking to save a bit on costs.

No matter what you choose, we're here to support your journey every step of the way! 🌟✈️

Conclusion

Botswana is a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences, from epic safaris to cultural discoveries. Whether you seek adventure or serenity, Botswana offers something for every traveller. Get your eVisa sorted, pack your bags and get ready for the trip of a lifetime!

Frequently asked questions

Use the passport you plan to travel to Botswana with. It's crucial to choose the correct passport during your eVisa application, as it directly impacts your entry into the country.

While the eVisa allows for a maximum initial stay of 30 days, you might be able to extend your stay within Botswana. However, extending your stay usually requires obtaining an extension from the Botswana Immigration Department. It's always best to inquire about extension possibilities before your trip.

Generally, yes. Even minor children require their own travel documents, including visas. Ensure you have all the necessary documents for your children, such as birth certificates and any required parental consent forms.

The best advice we can give is to be meticulous with your application. Double-check all information for accuracy, ensure all documents are clear and legible, and submit your application well in advance of your planned travel dates. This will give you ample time to address any potential issues that may arise.

While the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park are must-visits, don't miss the Tsodilo Hills. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a truly unique and spiritual experience. The rock art is incredible, and the surrounding landscape is breathtaking.

Content Disclaimer: Although this information was last updated in January 2025, we recommend verifying with the appropriate agencies, embassies, and airlines to ensure complete accuracy regarding your travel plans.