General Botswana Visa Requirements

Botswana, a top travel destination in southern Africa, offers stunning wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural experiences. To simplify entry, the country has introduced an electronic visa (eVisa) system, allowing travelers to apply online with ease. Understanding the eVisa requirements in advance ensures a smooth application process and prevents last-minute border issues. This guide outlines the common Botswana eVisa requirements, necessary documents for each visa type, and essential tips for a hassle-free application.

What is a Botswana eVisa? 

A Botswana eVisa is an electronic visa that replaces the traditional paper visa. Applicants fill out an online Botswana eVisa application form, upload scanned documents, and pay a fee—no embassy visits required. The approval, sent via email, acts as your visa. 

The benefits of an eVisa are significant, as it’s faster and more convenient. Additionally, the online system provides status updates or email notifications, so you know when your visa is approved. For travellers, especially those coming from countries that require a visa for Botswana, the eVisa is a welcome improvement that simplifies travel planning.

General Botswana eVisa Requirements

Before delving into specific visa categories, let’s cover the general requirements that apply to all Botswana eVisa applicants. No matter which type of eVisa you seek, you will need to meet these baseline criteria:

Meeting all these general requirements is essential. Incomplete or incorrect general documentation is a common reason for eVisa delays or rejections.

Passport Bio Page Requirements:

• The bio page must be clearly visible and legible.
• The passport should have a minimum validity of six months from the intended arrival date

Applicant’s Photo Requirements:

• The photo must be a recent digital image taken within the last six months.
• It should be in color with a plain white or light-colored background.
• The applicant's face must be fully visible, front-facing, with a neutral expression.
• Scanned copies or printed passport-sized photos will not be accepted.

Types of Botswana eVisas & Their Specific Requirements

Botswana offers multiple eVisa categories for different purposes of visit. While all eVisas share the general requirements as discussed, each type of eVisa has its own specific supporting documents and criteria that must be met.

Required Documents for Visitor eVisa Application

To apply for a Visitor eVisa, you must provide the following documents:

1. Return Ticket
   • A confirmed round-trip flight ticket showing your intended entry and departure from the country.
2. Invitation Letter from the Host
   • A formal invitation letter from your host in the destination country.
   • The letter should include the host's full name, address, contact details, and the purpose of your visit.
3. Host’s National Identity Card or Residence and Work Permit / Exemption Certificate
   • If your host is a citizen, provide their national ID.
   • If they are a resident, submit their valid residence and work permit.
   • If exempted from standard immigration rules, an Exemption Certificate is required.
4. Proof of Residence
   • A document proving your legal residence in your current country.
   • This can include a residence permit, utility bill, or rental agreement.

Required Documents for Transit eVisa Application

To apply for a Transit eVisa, you must provide the following documents:

1. Visa from Destination Country
   • A valid visa for your final destination.
   • If your destination does not require a visa, you may need to provide proof of exemption.
2. Company/Individual Letter
   • A letter from the inviting company or individual explaining the purpose of your transit.
   • The letter should include details such as your name, passport number, travel dates, and confirmation of transit arrangements.

Required Documents for Tourist eVisa Application

To apply for a Tourist eVisa, you must provide the following documents:

1. Tour Plan or Copy of Travel Schedule
   • A detailed itinerary of your planned activities during your stay.
   • Can include tour bookings, planned destinations, and any scheduled visits.
2. Flight Bookings
   • A copy of your confirmed flight reservations showing your intended entry and departure from the country..
3. Confirmation of Hotel/Lodge Bookings
   • Proof of accommodation reservations for the duration of your stay.
   • Can include hotel confirmation emails, booking receipts, or letters from lodges.
4. Return Ticket
   • A confirmed round-trip flight ticket showing your planned departure from the country.

Required Documents for Study eVisa Application

To apply for a Study eVisa, you must provide the following documents:

1. Study Permit Approval Letter
   • Official approval letter from the immigration authority or relevant department.
   • Confirms that you are permitted to study in the destination country.
2. Admission Letter from the School
   • A formal letter from the educational institution confirming your enrollment.
   • Should include details such as your name, course of study, duration, and institution’s contact information.
3. Source of Funds / Means of Support
   • Proof that you have sufficient financial resources to cover tuition, living expenses, and other costs.
   • Can include bank statements, sponsorship letters, scholarship awards, or financial guarantee documents.

Required Documents for Investor eVisa Application

1. Copy of Trade License, Certificate of Incorporation, and Share Certificate of Host
   • Official documents proving the existence and legitimacy of the host company.
   • Should include trade license, incorporation certificate, and shareholding details.
2. Work and Residence Permits
   • Valid work and residence permits for the applicant if already residing in the country.

Required Documents for Employment eVisa Application

1. Work and Residence Permits
   • Official documents proving that you have been granted permission to work and reside in Botswana.

Required Documents for Diplomatic eVisa Application

1. Letter from Foreign Affairs
   • An official letter from the applicant’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs or relevant government authority.
   • Should state the purpose of the visit and confirm diplomatic status.

Required Documents for Business eVisa Application

1. Invitation Letter from the host company.
   • A formal letter from the inviting company or organization stating the purpose of the visit.
2. Meeting Schedule (If Coming to Attend or Organize a Meeting)
   • A detailed itinerary of business meetings, conferences, or events.
3. Copy of Trade License, Certificate of Incorporation, and Share Certificate of Host
   • Official documents proving the legitimacy of the host company.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for a Botswana eVisa 

Applying for an eVisa online is convenient, but small mistakes can lead to delays or even rejections. Here are some common mistakes applicants make, and tips on how to avoid them:

Submitting Incomplete or Incorrect Documents 

One of the biggest pitfalls is not uploading all the required documents, or uploading the wrong thing. Always verify that each uploaded file is legible and complete. Incomplete documents (like a cut-off scan of a passport page) or wrong documents will cause your application to be put on hold until corrected.

Types or Mismatched Information

Filling out the application form in a rush can lead to typos – for instance, a misspelled name, an incorrect passport number, or wrong date of birth. If the information on your application doesn’t exactly match your passport and documents, it could cause problems. Always review every field of the online form before submitting. It helps to have your passport and documents in front of you to cross-verify each detail.

Applying for the Wrong Visa Type

Sometimes people aren’t sure which category their trip falls under and choose incorrectly. For instance, if you’re visiting a friend but you choose “Tourist” visa instead of “Visitor” visa, you might not upload an invitation letter – and then immigration sees you put an address of a friend in the form but no invitation letter, which could trigger questions or delays. Or someone planning to attend a conference selects “Business” but doesn’t provide a host invitation because they thought it was like a tourist visa. 

Make sure you select the correct eVisa category that matches the purpose of your visit, and then provide the documents relevant to that category. If in doubt, read descriptions of the visa types or ask for guidance from Botswana’s eVisa Support before applying.

Last-Minute Application

While not a “mistake” on the form per se, leaving your eVisa application to the very last minute before travel is risky. If any issue arises (technical glitch, additional document request, etc.), you may not have time to resolve it and could miss your trip. Always give yourself a buffer by applying well in advance (at least a couple of weeks before your trip, if not more) to avoid the stress of potential delays.

How to Apply for a Botswana eVisa? 

Follow these straightforward steps to apply:

• Visit the eVisa Portal: Start your Botswana eVisa Application Form on the eVisa portal.
• Complete the Online Form: Enter your personal details, travel dates, and choose the correct visa type.
• Upload Documents: Attach clear scans of your passport bio page, photo, and other required files.
• Review Your Application: Ensure all details are correct and all documents are attached.
• Make Payment: Use a valid credit/debit card to pay the visa fee.
• Submit and Monitor: Submit your application, then monitor your email for confirmation and further instructions.
• Receive Your eVisa: Once approved, print out your eVisa and carry it along with your passport when you travel.

Start Your Journey Now 

Ready to start your Botswana adventure? Visit Botswana eVisa Application portal to begin your eVisa application. Follow our simple step-by-step guide and secure your travel documents quickly and efficiently. Don’t delay—apply today and get one step closer to experiencing the magic of Botswana!

Contact Botswana eVisa Support If Needed

If you encounter any issues – for example, the website crashes, or you realize you made a mistake after submission – don’t panic. Contact Botswana’s eVisa Support Team. Reach out to them with your application number and concern. They can often help you rectify mistakes or advise on what to do next. It’s better to address issues proactively than to hope the officials will just “figure it out” (they might instead just reject the application if something’s wrong).

Visa rules can sometimes change, or additional requirements might be introduced (especially in fluctuating situations like global health issues, etc.). Before applying and before traveling, quickly check the Botswana eVisa Portal or your local Botswana embassy’s announcements to ensure no new requirement has been added.

Conclusion 

Obtaining a Botswana eVisa is a key step in preparing for your trip to this remarkable country. Thankfully, the eVisa system has made the process more accessible and traveler-friendly than the old paper-based methods.

However, the convenience of eVisa doesn’t eliminate the need for diligence. Always ensure your passport is valid and your documents are in order before you apply. Give yourself enough lead time, and double-check details to prevent avoidable setbacks.

In conclusion, if you plan properly and adhere to the guidelines, securing a Botswana eVisa can be a straightforward part of your journey. So, start your eVisa application early, follow the requirements closely, and soon you’ll be on your way to Botswana. Safe travels, and enjoy all the wonders that Botswana has to offer!

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to process a Botswana eVisa? Can I extend my Botswana eVisa once I arrive? What happens if my eVisa application is denied? Do children need a separate eVisa? Is a Botswana eVisa refundable if I cancel my trip?

Content Disclaimer: While this information was last updated in April 2025, we strongly advise checking with relevant authorities, including embassies, airlines, and official agencies, to confirm the most up-to-date and accurate details for your travel plans.