Namibia Study Visa

The Namibia Study Visa is a type of Temporary Residence Study Permit intended for individuals who wish to pursue education at accredited Namibian institutions. This includes primary and secondary schools, tertiary institutions, universities, colleges, and specialised skills training centres.

A Study Visa is required for all non-Namibian citizens who have received an offer of admission from a recognised educational institution and intend to reside in Namibia for the duration of their studies.

The visa is typically issued for a period of up to two years, depending on the length of the academic programme. It is renewable, provided that the student maintains valid registration and academic progress. However, this visa does not provide a direct pathway to permanent residence in Namibia.

Last updated: 22/07/2025

Clear Criminal Record and Acceptance Requirements:

Applicants aged 18 or older must provide proof of a clear criminal record from their country of origin, as well as from any country where they have resided for more than 12 months. In addition, a valid letter of acceptance from a recognised Namibian academic institution is required. Eligible institutions include primary and secondary schools, colleges, universities, and any training institution accredited by the Namibian Qualifications Authority.

Age and Financial Requirements:

The applicant’s age must be appropriate for the level of education sought. All applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support themselves during their studies, either through personal means or by providing a formal letter of support from a recognised sponsor.

Visa/Permit Validity:

The validity of the Study Visa is aligned with the duration of the academic programme. It may be renewed as long as the student maintains valid registration with the institution.

Additional Requirements for Minors:

Applicants under the age of 18 must submit a certified unabridged birth certificate and written consent from both parents or a legal guardian. Where consent from both parents is not available, additional documents such as sponsor letters, financial declarations, and bank statements will be required.

• Completed and signed Temporary Study Permit Form (3‑1/0001) and Visa Application Form (3‑1/0033)
• Certified copy of the passport bio‑data page (certification stamp not older than six months)
• Two recent colour passport‑sized photographs
• Original Police Clearance Certificate from the country of origin and/or any country of residence covering the past 12 months
• Original Medical Certificate (3‑1/0003) issued by a registered medical practitioner (not older than six months)
• Original Radiological Report (3‑1/0004) issued by a registered medical practitioner — required only for applicants aged 12 years and older (not older than six months)
• Certified marriage certificate, if applicable (certification stamp not older than six months)
• Official letter of acceptance from the learning institution indicating the programme title and duration
• Written undertaking from a guardian or sponsor, addressed to the Ministry of Home Affairs, confirming financial support
• Proof of the guardian’s or sponsor’s current legal status in Namibia, if applicable
• Motivational letter to the Ministry of Home Affairs explaining the purpose of study in Namibia
• Proof of medical‑aid cover from a Namibian‑registered medical scheme
• Proof of accommodation in Namibia (e.g., lease agreement or hostel confirmation)
• Signed Deed of Surety (Form 3‑1/0005)
• Proof of relatives residing in Namibia (if applicable)
• Certified copies of previous qualifications or academic transcripts, if applicable (certification stamp not older than six months)
• Certified unabridged birth certificate for applicants under 18
• Power of Attorney form if a third party will submit the application on the applicant’s behalf

Note: All documents must be in English or accompanied by a sworn translation.

The Namibian Study Visa/Permit does allow the temporary residence of an accompanying dependant or spouse/partner. This is a separate Namibian visa that must be applied for after the Study Visa has been granted.

For full information on eligibility, required documents, and application steps, please see our guide to the Namibian Spouse and Dependant Visa.

The government application fee for the Namibian Study Visa is NAD $1,600 for basic education and NAD $2,200 for tertiary education. These fees are payable to the Namibian Department of Home Affairs upon approval of the Study Permit.

Additional expenses may apply, including costs for obtaining and certifying required documents, medical and radiological certificates, police clearance certificates, and sworn translations where documents are not in English.

The standard processing time for a Namibian Study Visa and Permit is approximately 2 to 4 months from the date of submission. However, delays may occur due to outstanding police clearance certificates, medical or radiological reports, or incomplete documentation.

Applicants are strongly advised to begin the application process well in advance of their intended date of travel to Namibia to accommodate any unforeseen delays.

Applying for a Namibian Study Visa can be complex, particularly for those unfamiliar with immigration procedures. It is important to understand each requirement and follow the correct sequence of steps to avoid delays. Below is a detailed step-by-step guide to assist with your application process.

1. Determine Eligibility

• Obtain official acceptance from a Namibian-accredited academic institution.
• Demonstrate sufficient financial means to cover tuition fees and living expenses.
• Secure valid medical aid cover from a registered Namibian medical scheme.

2. Gather Required Documents and Forms

• Complete and sign both the 3-1/0001 Temporary Study Permit Form and the 3-1/0033 Visa Application Form.
• Prepare all supporting documents, including passport copies, medical and radiological reports, police clearance certificates, proof of financial means, and an official acceptance letter from the institution.

3. Submit the Application to the Ministry of Home Affairs

• Submit the complete application pack to the Ministry of Home Affairs in Namibia.
• Upon submission, you will receive an Acknowledgement Receipt, which is required for follow-up at the Ministry counters.

4. Await Processing

• Processing times typically range from 2 to 4 months. Applicants are advised to begin the process well in advance.

5. Receive Permit Outcome and Make Payment

• If approved, pay the applicable government fees to the Ministry of Home Affairs.
• You must enter Namibia on a Visitor’s Visa. Your Study Visa will then be endorsed into your passport.
• The passport must be submitted to the Ministry of Home Affairs for 7 to 10 working days for the endorsement to be completed.

6. Renewal and Compliance

• To renew your permit, apply during the renewal window (October to February) before your current permit expires.
• Ensure compliance with all visa conditions, including maintaining valid academic registration and medical cover throughout your stay.

Disclaimer

At IBN Immigration Solutions, we adhere to Google’s standards for transparency. As a private immigration firm, we follow the regulations outlined in the Immigration Act of Namibia. We are not affiliated with the Namibian Government. Our clients pay for our expertise in handling applications for both temporary and permanent residency. While forms required during the process can be obtained for free at any Namibian Ministry of Home Affairs office, we also provide them as part of our service. Those who prefer to deal directly with the Namibian Ministry of Home Affairs can visit their website at https://mha.gov.na/