As a digital nomad arriving in Namibia, having a smooth arrival process can set the tone for an amazing stay. This guide will walk you through everything from filling out the arrival forms to getting a local SIM card so that you can jump right into exploring or working without unnecessary stress. With a few proactive steps, your arrival in Windhoek will be effortless, leaving you free to enjoy all Namibia has to offer!
๐ Important Visa Information: What You Need to Know
The Namibian Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, and Security has announced that starting from April 1, 2025, nationals from 31 countries will require a visa to enter Namibia, received on arrival. The aim of this decision is to foster fair and balanced diplomatic relations with countries that have not reciprocated the preferential treatment granted to their citizens visiting Namibia.
Other nations need to apply for a visa upfront and need to hand in documents at their local embassy. Please research if you need to apply for a visa upfront or if you receive your visa on arrival.
Additionally, Namibia has introduced a Digital Nomad Visaย for those looking to stay up to 6 months. To stay updated on these changes, always check the official visa information page and consider applying for an E-Visa if available. If youโre planning to extend your stay beyond the initial 90 days, a tourist visa extension is possible at the Ministry of Home Affairs while you are in the country. Please ensure your entry stamp is correctly dated for the period you intend to stay, as overstaying could lead to penalties.
โ Arrival Form
Upon landing in Namibia, the arrival formย is a necessary step before passing through immigration. This form may be handed out on the plane before landing or latest distributed while youโre in line for immigration. If you'd rather avoid the last-minute rush, you can download and print the form in advanceย hereย and fill it out at home upfront (note: they only accept it in DIN A5 size).
Pro Tip: Bring a pen to fill it out on the plane. If the form hasnโt been handed out, ask the flight staff proactively.
Tips for Filling Out the Formย (specific to WildWifi members):
#13: Your Job Title
#14: The address of your accommodation (If you won't be based in one place but travel around, use the address of the first accommodation you stay in)
#15: Purpose โ Holiday/Tourist (Also als a digital nomad - very important)
#17: Estimated funds (e.g., 2,000 Euros, don't overthink that part)
#18: A person you know in Namibia or the accommodation
#19: The number of that person or accommodation
Date of signature is your arrival day
Having this information ready will make your immigration process much smoother.
โ ๏ธ Receiving your Passport stamp
When you reach the immigration officer, confirm the length of your stay upfront. Politely but clearly communicate how many days you will be in Namibia to ensure that the Entry Permit in your passport aligns with your plans. Officers sometimes allocate a default stay period, so a quick request here can prevent any issues later. Make sure you have a proof of an onward flight. More about that in the next paragraph.
Tip: A friendly and courteous attitude goes a long way.
โ๏ธ Onward Flight Requirement
Namibia may require proof of an onward flight ticket, even for visitors planning to stay only temporarily. As digital nomads you sometimes want to stay flexible as plans change on the go. To stay flexible, consider renting a 24-hour onward flight ticket instead at an affordable price. This service costs around $9-$16 and is available at onwardfly.com.
๐ Airport Shuttle to Windhoek
Windhoekโs city center is about 40 minutes from the airport. If youโre part of WildWifi, weโll confirm your airport shuttle arrangements in advance. Otherwise, you can arrange a shuttle using e.g LEFA, the local Uber. Many shuttles are cash-only, so make sure you have cash on hand when you arrive.
๐๐ผ What prices are normal for Airport Transfers?
You usually pay per person, not per car (The exception is LEFA Airport Transfers).
The prices can be around 380 N$ - 400 N$ for one person or 280 - 300 N$ per person if you are 2 people or more. LEFA Transfers are cheaper if you arrive in a group as you share the ride per car not per person.
โก๏ธ LEFA (Paid per car)
โก๏ธ Dial a Cab (Paid per person)
๐ฑ Getting a SIM Card at the Airport
For a hassle-free connection, pick up a local MTC SIM cardย right at the airport. Look for the MTC shop (blue logo), where you can purchase a SIM and data plan, such as the "YoData" 25 GB package, ideal for one month and around โฌ14.50.
๐ง Cash Withdrawals
There are several ATMs available at the airport, and itโs advisable to withdraw cash right away. While youโll receive South African Rand from these ATMs, you can spend Rand throughout Namibia interchangeably with Namibian Dollars. You may need cash for your shuttle fare, as some services donโt accept card payments.
With these steps checked off, youโll be well-prepared to start your journey as a digital nomad in Namibia. From reliable connectivity to efficient airport transfers, handling these details on arrival will allow you to focus on discovering the beauty of Windhoek and beyond. Happy travels!
๐ฆ๐งก JOIN OUR UPCOMING COLIVING RETREAT IN WINDHOEK, NAMIBIA
Welcome to WildWifi - Namibia's premier coliving and coworking retreat for digital nomads!
Join our community, staying in our comfortable coliving spaceย in Windhoek, at one of the safest and most central locations. Enjoy reliable high-speed internet, uninterrupted power, and various community-driven events. Connect with fellow nomads and local friends while exploring Namibia's stunning landscapes in your free time. Our minimum 4-week stay ensures deep connections and unforgettable experiences.
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