Work & Residence Permits

The Botswana IFSC will assist approved companies in the entire application process, to ensure that the necessary permits are obtained in a timely manner. Senior executives of Botswana IFSC approved companies are exempted from the normal requirements of work and residence permits.

While Botswana IFSC companies are still required to make a commitment to provide employment opportunities for suitably qualified citizens, the Botswana IFSC recognizes the need for foreign companies to bring in expert skills from outside to set up the new operation. As such, executives of approved companies can obtain 1 - 3 year permits, which can be extended if necessary. All applications should be routed through the Botswana IFSC. All necessary forms can be obtained from the Botswana IFSC offices.

Passports

all visitors must be in possession of a passport valid for at least six months, except those with United Nations Convention travel documents. Visitors must also have outgoing travel documents and sufficient funds to finance their stay. Valid entry visas are mandatory, and may be obtained from Botswana's various embassies and high commissions abroad. In countries where Botswana is not represented, visas may be obtained from the British High Commission. Entry visas obtained at border posts are valid for a maximum of 30 days, although extensions may be obtained from any immigration office in Botswana. No visitor is allowed more than a 90-day stay in every calendar year, unless permission has been granted in the form of a waiver pending the outcome of a residence permit application.

Visas

Visas are not required for nationals of Commonwealth countries (except for Ghana, India, Nigeria, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan), and some foreign countries with which Botswana has concluded visa abolition agreements. These include Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Italy, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Republic of Ireland, Samoa, San Marino, Sweden, Switzerland, United States of America, Uruguay and Serbia and Montenegro.