Botswana entry requirements for Canada passport holders
Checked daily · Updated June 1, 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
Canadians can visit Botswana visa-free for up to 90 days. No need to apply in advance — just show up with your passport and a return ticket. This policy is in effect for 2026.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Valid passport Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your departure date from Botswana | Your passport needs at least 6 months of validity remaining from the day you leave Botswana. Airlines check this at check-in — if your passport expires sooner, you'll be denied boarding. Blank pages aren't required, but have at least one free page for the entry stamp. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Proof of onward travel required | Immigration officers at Sir Seretse Khama International Airport routinely ask for proof of onward travel. Have a printed or digital copy of your return flight or a ticket to your next destination ready. Without it, you risk being refused entry. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel booking or host invitation | Officers may ask where you're staying, especially if you arrive without a pre-booked hotel. Have a printed booking confirmation or a letter of invitation from your host with their address and phone number. A simple screenshot of your booking app works too. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Show you can support yourself during your stay | Immigration can ask for evidence of sufficient funds — around 500 BWP per day (about $40 USD) is a safe benchmark. A recent bank statement, credit card, or a few hundred dollars in cash works. Most visitors aren't asked, but have something ready. | Recommended |
Passport validity is strictly enforced
Botswana requires your passport to be valid for at least 6 months from your entry date. If it's close to expiring, renew before you go — you will be turned away at the border.
No visa, but don't skip the return ticket
Immigration officers routinely ask for proof of onward travel. A screenshot of your flight booking or bus ticket is enough. Don't risk being denied entry over a missing ticket.
What happens at the border
1
Arrive at the airport
You'll land at Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (GBE) in Gaborone or Maun Airport (MUB). Follow signs to 'Immigration' or 'Passport Control'.
2
Queue at immigration
Join the line for foreign passport holders. Have your passport and return ticket ready. The officer will check your passport validity and stamp you in.
3
Receive entry stamp
The officer will stamp your passport with a 90-day entry. Check the stamp before walking away — make sure the date is correct.
4
Collect luggage and exit
After immigration, head to baggage claim, then customs. You're free to go.
Download Botswana Entry Checklist
PDF · Canada Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated June 1, 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~$50 USD (estimated)
For those who need a visa or want a formal record; apply at Botswana embassy.
Tourist visa (multiple entry)
Max stay90 days per entry
Validity6 months
Cost~$100 USD (estimated)
Allows multiple entries; useful for regional travel.
work visa
Work Permit
Up to 5 years, renewable
~$200 USD (estimated)
For those with a job offer in Botswana. Requires employer sponsorship and approval from the Department of Immigration.
student visa
Student Permit
Duration of studies, renewable
~$100 USD (estimated)
For enrolled students at accredited institutions in Botswana. Requires proof of enrollment and financial support.
investor visa
Investor Permit
Up to 5 years, renewable
~$500 USD (estimated)
For individuals investing a minimum amount (e.g., ~$500,000 USD) in Botswana businesses. Requires business plan and proof of funds.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Overstay fine per dayOverstay fines are assessed at immigration upon departure; avoid overstaying to prevent penalties and future entry issues. | Pula 200 (~$15 USD) per day |
| Tourist visa (single entry)For those who need a visa (e.g., for longer stays or if visa-free not applicable). | Pula 500 (~$37 USD) |
| Tourist visa (multiple entry)Allows multiple entries within validity period; useful for regional travel. | Pula 1,000 (~$74 USD) |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Unconvincing travel purpose20%
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
Canadian passport holders transiting through Botswana airports do not need a transit visa for stays under 24 hours, provided they remain airside.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Transit hubsSir Seretse Khama International Airport (GBE) · Maun Airport (MUB)
Health & vaccines for Botswana
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired if arriving from a country with yellow fever transmission risk.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidRecommendedRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio)EssentialRabiesConsider
Health risks
MalariaHigh risk
Present in northern regions (Okavango Delta, Chobe); prophylaxis recommended.
HIV/AIDSModerate risk
High prevalence; practice safe behaviors and avoid medical procedures without precautions.
Food and waterborne diseasesModerate risk
Risk of traveler's diarrhea; drink bottled or boiled water.
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 54352, New CBD, Gaborone
Mon–Fri 07:30–16:30
Main office for visa extensions and permits; bring passport and supporting documents.
Maun
Maun Immigration Office
Maun, Botswana
Mon–Fri 07:30–16:30
Handles extensions for travellers in the Okavango Delta region.
Practical information for CA 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 = 13.65 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 entry is not extendable. If you need to stay longer, you must leave Botswana and re-enter, or apply for a different visa type before your 90 days are up.
If you're staying airside and not passing through immigration, you don't need a visa. But if you plan to leave the airport, you'll need to meet the same visa-free requirements (valid passport, return ticket).
You'll be denied entry. Renew your passport before traveling. The 6-month validity is counted from your entry date, not your departure date.
Yes, the same visa-free rules apply at land borders. You'll still need a valid passport, return ticket, and proof of accommodation. Popular crossings include Kazungula (Zambia/Botswana) and Groblersbrug (South Africa).
No mandatory vaccinations for Canadian travelers. However, yellow fever vaccine is required if you're arriving from a country with yellow fever risk. Check with your doctor for recommended vaccines like hepatitis A, typhoid, and rabies.
No, there is no arrival declaration required for Canadian passport holders. Just show up with your documents.
The currency is the Botswana pula (BWP). Credit cards are widely accepted in cities and hotels, but carry some cash for rural areas and markets. ATMs are available in major towns.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on June 1, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.