Botswana entry requirements for Kenya passport holders
Checked daily · Updated May 25, 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
Kenyan passport holders can enter Botswana without a visa for stays up to 90 days. This policy remains in effect for 2026. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your date of entry.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Valid passport Must be valid for the duration of your stay | Your Kenyan passport needs to be valid for at least 6 months beyond your departure date from Botswana. Airlines check this at check-in — if your passport expires sooner, you'll be denied boarding. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Proof of departure from Botswana | Immigration officers at Sir Seretse Khama International Airport routinely ask for a return or onward ticket. Have a printed or digital copy of your flight booking ready — they check this before stamping you in. | Recommended |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel booking or host invitation | Keep a copy of your hotel reservation or a letter of invitation from your host. Officers occasionally ask for it, especially if you're arriving without a clear itinerary. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Sufficient money for your stay | Have access to at least 500 BWP (around $40 USD) per day of your stay. A bank statement or credit card works — officers rarely ask, but it's better to have it ready. | Recommended |
No visa needed, but don't skip the basics
Even though you don't need a visa, immigration can still deny entry if your passport is too close to expiry or you lack a return ticket. Double-check your documents before you go.
eSIMs save time at the airport
Skip the SIM card queue at Gaborone airport. Install an Airalo eSIM before you fly — it activates the moment you land. You'll have data for maps, WhatsApp, and ride-hailing apps immediately.
What happens at the border
1
Arrive at immigration counter
At Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (Gaborone) or Maun Airport, follow signs to 'Foreign Passports'. Join the queue for non-SADC nationals.
2
Present your documents
Hand over your passport, completed arrival card (usually given on the plane), and your return ticket 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. No visa fee or additional forms needed.
Download Botswana Entry Checklist
PDF · Kenya Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated May 25, 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, extendable up to 90 days
Validity3 months from issue
CostBWP 500 (~$37 USD)
Apply at Botswana embassy or online; requires passport, photos, itinerary.
Tourist visa (multiple entry)
Max stay90 days per entry, extendable
Validity6 months from issue
CostBWP 1,000 (~$74 USD)
Good for frequent travelers; same application process.
Work visa
Max stayUp to 2 years, renewable
ValidityVaries
CostBWP 2,000 (~$148 USD) plus processing
Requires employer sponsorship and work permit approval.
work visa
Work and Residence Permit
Up to 2 years, renewable
BWP 2,000 (~$148 USD) plus employer fees
For those with a job offer in Botswana. Requires employer sponsorship, contract, and proof of qualifications. Allows long-term stay and work.
student visa
Student Visa
Duration of study, renewable annually
BWP 500 (~$37 USD) per year
For enrollment at a recognized Botswana institution. Requires admission letter, proof of funds, and health insurance.
investor visa
Investor Permit
Up to 5 years, renewable
BWP 5,000 (~$370 USD) plus investment proof
For those investing at least BWP 500,000 in a Botswana business. Requires business plan and registration.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Overstay fine per dayMaximum cap may apply; avoid overstaying. | ~BWP 200 (~$15 USD) per day |
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
Kenya passport holders transiting through Botswana airports do not need a transit visa if staying airside and not passing through immigration.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Exceptions & conditions
- If leaving the airport or staying overnight, a visa may be required.
Transit hubsSir Seretse Khama International Airport (GBE) · Maun Airport (MUB) · Francistown Airport (FRW)
Health & vaccines for Botswana
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired if arriving from a country with yellow fever risk (e.g., Kenya). Must show certificate at entry.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidEssentialRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio)EssentialHepatitis BRecommendedRabiesConsider
Health risks
MalariaHigh risk
Present throughout Botswana, especially in northern regions (Okavango Delta). Use prophylaxis and mosquito repellent.
Dengue feverLow risk
Occasional outbreaks; avoid mosquito bites.
Food and waterborne diseasesModerate risk
Risk of traveler's diarrhea; drink bottled or boiled water and eat well-cooked food.
Malaria risk: high
High risk in all areas, especially rural and northern regions. Prophylaxis recommended (e.g., atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline).
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 application forms and supporting documents.
Francistown
Francistown Immigration Office
Plot 123, Independence Avenue, Francistown
Mon–Fri 07:30–16:30
Regional office for northern Botswana; less crowded than Gaborone.
Practical information for KE 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 entry is not extendable. If you need to stay longer, you must leave Botswana and re-enter after a short absence, or apply for a visa at a Botswana embassy before travel.
If you're arriving directly from Kenya, no. But if you've recently been in a country with yellow fever (e.g., parts of South America or Africa), you may need proof of vaccination. Check with your airline or the Botswana embassy.
You will likely be denied entry. Renew your passport before traveling. The 6-month rule is strictly enforced at immigration.
No. The 90-day visa-free stay is for tourism, business meetings, or short visits only. For work or study, you need a proper visa or permit from a Botswana embassy.
No, departure tax is included in your airline ticket. You don't need to pay anything extra at the airport.
The local currency is Botswana pula (BWP). US dollars are accepted at some hotels and safari lodges, but for daily expenses, use pula. ATMs are widely available in cities.
No. There is no online arrival declaration required for Kenyan passport holders. Just show up with your documents.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on May 25, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.