Botswana entry requirements for France passport holders
Verified May 13, 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
French passport holders can visit Botswana without a visa for up to 90 days. This policy has been in place for years and remains unchanged in 2026. Just show up with a valid passport and an onward ticket.
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 6 months from your date of entry into Botswana. Airlines check this before boarding — if your passport expires sooner, 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 out of Botswana ready. | Recommended |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel booking or invitation letter | Carry a printed hotel reservation or a letter of invitation from your host in Botswana. Officers rarely ask for it, but having it avoids delays. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Show you can support yourself during your stay | Have bank statements or a credit card ready to show you have at least 500 BWP per day (about $40 USD) available. This is rarely checked for French passport holders, but the law allows officers to ask. | Recommended |
Passport validity counts from entry date
Botswana requires your passport to be valid for 6 months from the day you arrive, not from the day you leave. If your passport expires 5 months after you land, you'll be turned away.
No extensions — plan your exit
The 90-day visa-free stay cannot be extended. If you overstay, you risk fines and future entry bans. Set a reminder to leave before day 90.
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
Present your documents
Hand over your passport and any supporting documents (onward ticket, accommodation booking) if asked. The officer will check your passport validity and stamp you in.
3
Collect your luggage and exit
After the stamp, proceed to baggage claim, then customs. The whole process usually takes 15–30 minutes.
Download Botswana Entry Checklist
PDF · France Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated May 13, 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 (approx. 680 BWP)
For those who need a visa or want a longer stay; apply at Botswana embassy.
Tourist visa (multiple entry)
Max stay90 days per entry
Validity6 months
Cost~$100 USD (approx. 1,360 BWP)
Allows multiple entries; suitable for frequent travellers.
work visa
Work Permit
Up to 5 years, renewable
~$200 USD (approx. 2,720 BWP) application fee
For those with a job offer in Botswana. Requires employer sponsorship and proof of qualifications. Allows long-term residence.
student visa
Student Permit
Duration of study, renewable
~$100 USD (approx. 1,360 BWP) application fee
For enrolled students at recognized institutions. Requires acceptance letter and proof of funds.
investor visa
Investor Permit
Up to 5 years, renewable
~$500 USD (approx. 6,800 BWP) application fee
For individuals investing a minimum of ~$500,000 USD in Botswana. Requires business plan and proof of investment.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Overstay fine per dayOverstay fines are charged daily; maximum cap may apply. Avoid overstaying. | ~$30 USD per day (approx. 400 BWP) |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Unclear 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
France passport holders transiting through Botswana airports do not need a transit visa if they remain airside and have a confirmed onward ticket.
Airside transitAllowed
Transit hubsSir Seretse Khama International Airport (GBE) · Maun International Airport (MUB) · Kasane International Airport (BBK)
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
High risk in northern regions (Okavango Delta, Chobe); prophylaxis recommended.
Dengue feverModerate risk
Occasional outbreaks; use mosquito repellent.
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 (e.g., atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline) 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. Arrive early to avoid queues.
Maun
Maun Immigration Office
Maun International Airport, Maun
Mon–Fri 08:00–16:00
Handles extensions for tourists in the Okavango Delta region.
Practical information for FR 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 = 13.8 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. You must leave before day 90. Overstaying can result in fines or a ban.
Only if you're arriving from a country with yellow fever risk (e.g., parts of South America or Africa). French travellers coming directly from France do not need it. Check the latest WHO list before travel.
You will likely be denied boarding by the airline or refused entry at the border. Renew your passport before you travel.
Yes. The same visa-free rules apply at land borders like Kazungula (Zambia/Botswana) or Groblersbrug (South Africa). You'll still need a valid passport and onward ticket.
No. There is no online arrival declaration for Botswana. You'll fill out a simple paper form on the plane or at the border.
No. There is no visa on arrival for French citizens. You must leave before 90 days or overstay (which is not recommended).
The local currency is the Botswana pula (BWP). ATMs are widely available in cities. US dollars are accepted at some hotels but you'll get better rates using local currency.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on May 13, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.