Botswana entry requirements for Nepal passport holders
Checked daily · Updated May 25, 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
Nepali passport holders need an eVisa to enter Botswana. It covers tourism and business visits. Apply online before you travel. This rule applies in 2026.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| eVisa application Apply before travel | Apply for a Botswana eVisa at the official eServices portal. Processing takes 5–10 business days. Print the approval letter and carry it with your passport to present at immigration.Apply for eVisa | Required |
| Valid passport Must cover your stay | Your passport must be valid for at least the duration of your stay in Botswana. No specific 6-month validity rule applies, but airlines may enforce it — check with your carrier before flying. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Proof of departure | Immigration officers routinely ask for a confirmed onward or return ticket. Have a printed or digital copy ready to show at the border. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel booking or invitation letter | Carry a hotel reservation or a letter of invitation from your host. Officers may ask for it, especially if you arrive without a clear itinerary. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Show you can support yourself | Have bank statements or cash equivalent to at least 500 BWP per day. Officers rarely check, but it helps if questioned about your stay. | Recommended |
Apply early — processing can be slow
The eVisa can take up to 10 business days. Don't wait until the last week before your flight. Apply at least 2 weeks in advance.
Keep digital copies of everything
Save your eVisa PDF, flight booking, and hotel confirmation on your phone and email them to yourself. If you lose your printed copies, you'll still have access.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for the eVisa online
Go to the Botswana eVisa portal (evisa.gov.bw) and fill out the application. You'll need your passport details, travel dates, and accommodation info. Upload a digital passport photo and a scan of your passport bio page.
2
Pay the eVisa fee
Pay the processing fee online by credit or debit card. The fee is around $30–$50 USD depending on your nationality. Keep the payment receipt.
3
Wait for approval
Processing usually takes 3–5 business days, but can take up to 10. Apply at least 2 weeks before your trip to be safe. You'll receive the eVisa by email as a PDF.
4
Print or save the eVisa
Print a paper copy of the eVisa and also save it on your phone. You'll need to show it at the airport check-in and on arrival in Botswana.
5
Arrive at the airport in Botswana
At Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (GBE) in Gaborone or Maun Airport, go to the immigration counter. Present your passport, eVisa, return ticket, and accommodation confirmation. The officer will stamp you in.
Download Botswana Entry Checklist
PDF · Nepal Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated May 25, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Tourist visa (single entry)
Max stay30 days
Validity3 months from issue
Cost~$30 USD (approx. 400 BWP)
Standard eVisa for tourism.
Tourist visa (multiple entry)
Max stay30 days per entry
Validity6 months from issue
Cost~$60 USD (approx. 800 BWP)
For multiple visits within validity.
Long-stay visa (business/study)
Max stayUp to 1 year
Validity1 year
Cost~$100 USD (approx. 1,300 BWP)
Requires sponsorship from employer or educational institution.
work visa
Work Permit
Up to 2 years, renewable
~$200 USD (approx. 2,600 BWP)
For foreign nationals with a job offer in Botswana. Requires employer sponsorship and proof of qualifications.
student visa
Student Visa
Duration of study, renewable annually
~$100 USD (approx. 1,300 BWP)
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
~$500 USD (approx. 6,500 BWP)
For individuals investing a minimum of $100,000 USD in Botswana. Requires business plan and proof of investment.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| eVisa (single entry)Standard fee for tourist eVisa, payable online. | ~$30 USD (approx. 400 BWP) |
| eVisa (multiple entry)For multiple entries within validity period. | ~$60 USD (approx. 800 BWP) |
| Overstay fine per dayCharged per day overstay, no cap specified. | ~$10 USD (approx. 130 BWP) |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Incomplete application20%
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
Nepal passport holders transiting through Botswana do not require a transit visa if they remain airside and have a confirmed onward ticket within 24 hours.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Exceptions & conditions
- Holders of valid US, UK, or Schengen visas may transit without visa for up to 48 hours.
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 yellow fever 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 in urban areas; 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 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 54358, CBD, Gaborone
Mon–Fri 07:30–16:30
Main office for visa extensions and permits.
Francistown
Francistown Immigration Office
Plot 123, Independence Avenue, Francistown
Mon–Fri 07:30–16:30
Regional office for northern Botswana.
Practical information for NP 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
Processing usually takes 3–5 business days, but can take up to 10. Apply at least 2 weeks before your trip to avoid delays.
The eVisa fee is around $30–$50 USD, depending on your nationality. You pay online by credit or debit card during the application.
No, the eVisa is not extendable. You must leave before it expires. If you need to stay longer, you'd need to apply for a different visa type before traveling.
Yes, immigration may ask for a return or onward ticket. Keep a printed copy or screenshot on your phone.
You must have at least 6 months validity from your entry date. If your passport expires sooner, renew it before applying for the eVisa.
No, Nepali passport holders cannot get a visa on arrival. You must have an approved eVisa before you travel.
You'll need your passport, the printed eVisa, your return ticket, and accommodation confirmation. Keep them all together in your hand luggage.
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.