Botswana entry requirements for Bahrain passport holders
Checked daily · Updated May 27, 2026·View sources
No visa required
90 days
Max stay
90 days
Passport validity
6 months
Beyond entry date
Return ticket
Required
Or onward travel proof
Proof of funds
Recommended
May be checked
Bahraini passport holders can visit Botswana visa-free for up to 90 days. This policy has been in place since at least 2026, so no visa application is needed before you travel. Just show up with your passport and a few key documents, and you're good to go.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Valid passport Must be valid for the duration of your stay | Your passport needs to be valid for at least the length of your stay in Botswana. Airlines check this at check-in — if your passport expires before you leave, you will be denied boarding. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Proof of departure from Botswana | Immigration officers routinely ask for a return or onward ticket at the border. Have a printed or digital copy of your flight booking ready — they will check the date matches your intended 90-day stay. | Recommended |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel booking or host invitation | Have your hotel reservation or a letter of invitation from your host ready. Immigration may ask where you are staying, especially if you arrive without a pre-booked hotel. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Show you can support yourself during your stay | Carry a bank statement or credit card showing you have enough money for your trip. Immigration officers can ask for proof of funds — have a recent statement on your phone or printed. | Recommended |
No visa needed — but don't skip the checklist
Even though you don't need a visa, immigration can still ask for proof of onward travel and accommodation. Have them ready on your phone or printed.
Overstaying is costly
The 90-day stay is not extendable. Overstaying even a day can lead to fines or being barred from re-entering. Set a reminder to leave on time.
What happens at the border
1
Arrive at the airport
You'll land at Sir Seretse Khama International Airport in Gaborone or Maun Airport. Follow signs to 'Immigration' or 'Passport Control'.
2
Queue at immigration
Join the queue for foreign passport holders. Have your passport, return ticket (screenshot or printed), and accommodation confirmation ready.
3
Get your entry stamp
The officer will check your documents, stamp your passport, and grant you up to 90 days. No fee, no form to fill.
4
Collect your luggage and exit
After immigration, head to baggage claim, then customs. You're free to enter Botswana.
Download Botswana Entry Checklist
PDF · Bahrain Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated May 27, 2026
Overstay calculator
Enter your arrival date and we'll tell you exactly when you need to leave.
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Tourist visa (single entry)
Max stay90 days
Validity3 months from issue
Cost~BWP 500 (~$38 USD)
For stays beyond visa-free period or if visa-free not applicable. Apply at Botswana embassy.
Tourist visa (multiple entry)
Max stay90 days per entry
Validity6 months
Cost~BWP 1,000 (~$76 USD)
Allows multiple entries; useful for frequent travellers.
Long-stay visa (business/study)
Max stayUp to 1 year
Validity1 year
Cost~BWP 2,000 (~$152 USD)
Requires sponsorship from employer or educational institution.
work visa
Work Permit
Up to 2 years, renewable
~BWP 5,000 (~$380 USD) application fee
For Bahrain holders with a job offer in Botswana. Requires employer sponsorship and proof of qualifications. Allows long-term residence.
student visa
Student Permit
Duration of course, renewable
~BWP 2,000 (~$152 USD) application fee
For those enrolled in a recognized educational institution in Botswana. Requires acceptance letter and proof of funds.
investor visa
Investor Permit
Up to 5 years, renewable
~BWP 10,000 (~$760 USD) application fee
For individuals investing a minimum of BWP 500,000 in Botswana. Requires business plan and proof of investment. Offers residency.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Overstay fine per dayOverstay fines are charged daily; maximum cap may apply. Check with immigration. | ~BWP 200 per day (~$15 USD) |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Suspicious travel pattern20%
Approval probability calculator
Answer 6 quick questions — we'll estimate how likely you are to be approved for entry based on typical immigration patterns.
Transiting through Botswana
No transit visa needed
Bahrain passport holders transiting through Botswana airports do not require a transit visa if staying airside and not passing through immigration.
Airside transitAllowed
Transit hubsSir Seretse Khama International Airport (GBE) · Maun Airport (MUB) · Kasane Airport (BBK)
Health & vaccines for Botswana
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired if arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidRecommendedRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio, etc.)EssentialRabiesConsider
Health risks
MalariaHigh risk
High risk in northern regions (Okavango Delta, Chobe); prophylaxis recommended.
Dengue feverModerate risk
Occasional outbreaks; mosquito avoidance advised.
SchistosomiasisModerate risk
Risk from swimming in freshwater lakes and rivers; avoid contact.
Malaria risk: high
High risk in northern Botswana (Okavango Delta, Chobe, Maun). Prophylaxis recommended for all travellers to these areas.
Based on CDC and WHO guidance. Consult a travel medicine clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalised advice.
Immigration offices for extensions
Gaborone
Department of Immigration and Citizenship
Plot 54351, CBD, Gaborone
Mon–Fri 07:30–16:30
Main office for visa extensions and permits. Bring passport, photos, and proof of funds.
Maun
Maun Immigration Office
Maun Airport Road, Maun
Mon–Fri 07:30–16:30
Handles extensions for tourists in the Okavango Delta region.
Practical information for BH travellers
Country basics
CapitalGaborone
LanguageEnglish, Setswana
Driving sideLeft-hand traffic
US driving licenceUS visitors can drive with a valid US license for up to 90 days; an International Driving Permit is recommended.
Money
CurrencyBotswana pula (BWP)
Exchange rate
1 USD = 13.69 BWP
Time zone
Local timeUTC+2
vs New York+7h
vs Los Angeles+10h
Electricity
Voltage230V / 50Hz
Plug types
D,GType D (3-pin round) and Type G (3-pin rectangular) plugs.
⚠ US adapter needed
Water & health
Tap water
Not safe — use bottled
Tap water is generally chlorinated and safe in major cities, but avoid in rural areas.
Emergency numbers
Frequently asked questions
No, the visa-free stay is not extendable. You must leave before day 90. Overstaying can result in fines or a ban.
If you're staying airside and not passing through immigration, you don't need a visa. But if you need to enter the country (e.g., to switch terminals or stay overnight), the visa-free rules apply.
You'll likely be denied boarding or entry. Renew your passport before you travel. The 6-month validity is strictly enforced.
No, there is no arrival declaration required for Bahraini passport holders. Just your passport and the standard immigration check.
No, the visa-free entry is for tourism, business meetings, or short visits only. For work or study, you need a separate visa or permit.
The currency is the Botswana pula (BWP). Credit cards are widely accepted in cities, but carry some cash for rural areas or small vendors. ATMs are available at airports and major towns.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on May 27, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.