Lesotho entry requirements for Algeria passport holders
Checked daily · Updated May 28, 2026·View sources
eVisa required
Max stay
No fixed limit
Passport validity
6 months
Beyond entry date
Return ticket
Required
Or onward travel proof
Proof of funds
Recommended
May be checked
Algerian passport holders need an eVisa to enter Lesotho. You can apply online from home before you travel. This info is current as of 2026.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| eVisa application Apply before departure | Apply for a Lesotho eVisa at the official immigration portal. Processing takes 3–5 business days. Print the approval letter and carry it with your passport — immigration at Moshoeshoe I International Airport will stamp you in.Apply for eVisa | Required |
| Valid passport Must cover entire stay | Passport must be valid for at least the duration of your stay in Lesotho. No 6-month validity rule applies, but airlines may enforce their own policy — check with your carrier before flying. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Proof of departure | Immigration officers ask for a confirmed onward or return ticket at the border. Have a printed or digital copy ready — they check this before granting entry. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel booking or host letter | Carry a hotel reservation or a letter from your host in Lesotho. Officers rarely ask, but having it avoids delays if they do. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Show you can support yourself | Have bank statements or a credit card ready. Immigration may ask for evidence of at least 1,000 ZAR per day of stay, though enforcement is inconsistent. | Recommended |
eVisa is mandatory — no exceptions
Algerian passport holders cannot get a visa on arrival in Lesotho. You must apply and receive approval before you fly. Plan ahead.
Keep copies of everything
Immigration officers may ask for your return ticket and hotel booking. Have them printed or saved offline on your phone — airport Wi-Fi isn't always reliable.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for the eVisa online
Go to the official Lesotho eVisa website. Fill in your personal and passport details, upload a passport photo and a scan of your passport bio page. Pay the fee with a credit or debit card.
2
Wait for approval
Processing usually takes 3–5 business days. Check your email (including spam) for the approval. Print it or save the PDF on your phone.
3
Pack your documents
Before you leave, gather: passport, eVisa approval, return ticket, hotel booking, and travel insurance. Keep them in your carry-on.
4
Arrive at Moshoeshoe I International Airport or land border
At immigration, present your passport and eVisa. The officer may ask for your return ticket and accommodation. Answer clearly. You'll get a stamp allowing entry for up to 30 days or the duration on your eVisa.
Download Lesotho Entry Checklist
PDF · Algeria Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated May 28, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Tourist visa single entry
Max stay44 days
Validity3 months from issue
CostM150 (~$8 USD)
Standard tourist visa, non-extendable.
Tourist visa multiple entry
Max stay44 days per entry
Validity6 months from issue
CostM300 (~$16 USD)
Allows multiple entries; each stay up to 44 days.
Business visa
Max stay90 days
Validity3 months from issue
CostM500 (~$26 USD)
Requires invitation letter from Lesotho company.
Student visa
Max stayDuration of course
ValidityUp to 1 year
CostM300 (~$16 USD)
Requires acceptance from Lesotho educational institution.
work visa
Work Permit
1 year, renewable
M1,000 (~$53 USD) application fee
For foreign nationals with a job offer from a Lesotho employer. Requires employer sponsorship and labor market test.
student visa
Student Permit
Duration of course, up to 2 years
M300 (~$16 USD) application fee
For full-time students enrolled at a recognized Lesotho institution. Requires proof of enrollment and sufficient funds.
investor visa
Investor Permit
2 years, renewable
M5,000 (~$265 USD) application fee
For individuals investing a minimum of M500,000 in a Lesotho business. Requires business plan and proof of investment.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| eVisa (single entry)Standard fee for tourist eVisa, valid for up to 44 days. | M150 (~$8 USD) |
| Tourist visa (single entry, embassy)For those applying at a Lesotho embassy or consulate. | M150 (~$8 USD) |
| Tourist visa (multiple entry)Allows multiple entries within validity period. | M300 (~$16 USD) |
| Overstay fine per dayCharged for each day overstayed beyond authorized period. | M100 (~$5 USD) per day |
| Overstay fine maximum capMaximum fine for overstay, regardless of duration. | M2,000 (~$106 USD) |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds proof30%
No return ticket25%
Incomplete application documents20%
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 Lesotho
No transit visa needed
Algerian passport holders transiting through Lesotho do not require a transit visa if they remain airside and have a confirmed onward ticket.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Exceptions & conditions
- If leaving the airport, a visa is required.
Transit hubsMoshoeshoe I International Airport (MSU)
Health & vaccines for Lesotho
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired if arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidEssentialHepatitis BRecommendedRabiesConsiderTetanus-diphtheria-pertussisRecommendedMeasles-mumps-rubella (MMR)Recommended
Health risks
MalariaModerate risk
Present in lowland areas; prophylaxis recommended for rural travel.
Diarrheal diseasesModerate risk
Common from contaminated food/water; practice safe eating and drinking.
HIV/AIDSHigh risk
Lesotho has one of the highest HIV prevalence rates; take precautions.
Malaria risk: moderate
Risk is highest in lowland areas (e.g., Maseru, Mafeteng) from November to June. Prophylaxis recommended for rural travel.
Based on CDC and WHO guidance. Consult a travel medicine clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalised advice.
Immigration offices for extensions
Maseru
Lesotho Immigration Department – Headquarters
P.O. Box 363, Maseru 100
Mon–Fri 08:00–16:30
Main office for visa extensions and permits. Bring passport, photos, and fee.
Maseru
Maseru Border Post Immigration Office
Maseru Bridge Border Post
Mon–Fri 08:00–16:30
Handles entry/exit and some permit issues at the border.
Practical information for DZ travellers
Country basics
CapitalMaseru
LanguageSesotho, English
Driving sideLeft-hand traffic
US driving licenceUS visitors can drive with a valid US driver's license for up to 90 days.
Money
CurrencyLesotho loti (LSL)
Exchange rate
1 USD = 16.25 LSL
Time zone
Local timeUTC+2
vs New York+7h
vs Los Angeles+10h
Electricity
Voltage220V / 50Hz
Plug types
MType M (three round pins, similar to South Africa)
⚠ US adapter needed
Water & health
Tap water
Not safe — use bottled
Tap water is not safe to drink; stick to bottled or boiled water.
Emergency numbers
Frequently asked questions
Typically 3–5 business days. Apply at least a week before your trip to be safe. You'll get an email with the approval.
The official fee varies by nationality and is usually around $50–$100 USD. Check the eVisa website for the exact amount — it's paid online by card.
No, the eVisa is not extendable. If you need to stay longer, you'd have to leave and re-enter, or apply for a different visa type before your current one expires.
Lesotho requires a yellow fever vaccination certificate if you're arriving from a country with yellow fever risk. Algeria is not on that list, so you likely don't need it — but check with your airline or the embassy if you've recently traveled elsewhere.
You'll be denied entry and sent back on the next flight. There's no visa on arrival for Algerian passport holders. You must have the eVisa before you travel.
Yes, you can cross at any official land border (e.g., Maseru Bridge, Ficksburg). You still need the eVisa — it's checked at the border post just like at the airport.
Renew your passport first. Lesotho strictly enforces the 6-month rule. If your passport expires sooner, you won't be allowed in.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on May 28, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.