Botswana Visa Requirements For British Citizens (2025)

British citizens do not need a visa to visit Botswana for stays of up to 90 days for tourism or business (including volunteering or work-related meetings)

Botswana Visa Requirements For British Citizens

Visa-free stay up to 90 days. No need to apply beforehand .
Passport validity: Must be valid for at least 6 months from date of entry, with minimum 3 blank pages
Entry stamp required—make sure your passport is stamped on arrival
Proof of onward/return ticket and sufficient funds for the stay may be required

Traveling with Children

For minors (under 18): bring original or certified copy of full birth certificate.
If traveling with one adult or alone, carry a consent affidavit from the other parent(s) or guardian

If You Need More Than 90 Days or a Different Purpose

To extend your stay beyond 90 days, visit Botswana’s Department of Immigration before expiry
For work, study, or volunteering, apply for the appropriate visa or permit either online through Botswana’s e‑Visa system or via the High Commission
- Fees are roughly 300 BWP for a single-entry and 500 BWP for multiple-entry

Vaccination & Customs

If you’re arriving from a country with yellow fever risk, you must present a yellow fever vaccination certificate
Declare cash ≥ 10 000 Pula. Customs regulations apply

Quick Pre-Trip Checklist

Item	Requirement
✅ Passport	Valid ≥ 6 months, ≥ 3 blank pages
✅ Entry stamp	Ensure it’s stamped on arrival
✅ Return ticket	Confirmed onward/return
✅ Funds	Proof of finances (bank statement, card)
✅ Vaccination	Yellow fever certificate (if from risk area)
✅ Children’s docs	Certified birth and consent affidavits

Does British Citizens Needs Visa To Travel To Botswana?

British citizens do not need a visa to travel to Botswana for tourist or business stays of up to 90 days

How Long Does It Takes For A British Citizen To Get Botswana Visa?

What if you’re not visa-exempt?

If you’re visiting with a nationality that does require a visa, Botswana offers an e‑Visa system:

Processing time:
- Standard: ~25–30 working days
- Rush: ~20–25 working days
- Super Rush: ~18–22 working days
Other sources confirm the standard turnaround is typically 25–30 working days for tourist e‑visas .
Some user reports online suggest the ministry’s estimate (around 3–5 business days) is often overly optimistic—actual approvals can take 1–3 weeks, or even 3+ weeks if there are issues.

Summary for British citizens

Situation	Visa Requirement	Processing Time
Up to 90 days visit	No visa required	N/A (visa-exempt)
Longer stay or work/study	Specific permit required	Depends on permit type & method

What Do You Need As A British Citizen To Move To Botswana

Moving to Botswana as a British citizen can be a fulfilling and exciting experience. Whether you’re relocating for work, retirement, family, or simply for a new adventure, Botswana offers a unique mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and political stability that makes it one of Africa’s most attractive destinations for expats.

One of the first things British citizens often notice when moving to Botswana is the warmth and friendliness of the people. Batswana are known for their welcoming attitude and strong sense of community. English is one of the country’s official languages, which makes integration and communication relatively easy for British nationals. Although Setswana is widely spoken, the use of English in government, business, and education makes everyday life more accessible for newcomers.

Life in Botswana moves at a slower, more relaxed pace compared to the hustle and bustle of the UK. Patience and adaptability are key virtues here. From government offices to daily errands, things often take longer than they might back home. This laid-back lifestyle, however, is often seen as a welcome change, especially for those seeking a less stressful way of living.

Botswana’s culture values respect, modesty, and strong family ties. Social interactions are polite and formal, and it’s common to greet people with a handshake and a few kind words. Taking time to understand local customs, traditions, and social norms can go a long way in helping you settle into your new environment.

Housing options in Botswana range from modern apartments in urban centres like Gaborone and Francistown to more rural or suburban settings where properties come with spacious yards and scenic views. Gaborone, the capital, is often the first choice for expatriates due to its relatively well-developed infrastructure and access to amenities. There are both furnished and unfurnished options, and many expats prefer gated communities or apartments for added security and convenience.

Renting is a common choice for new arrivals, and prices can vary depending on the location and type of property. It’s important to do some research or connect with local agents to find housing that suits your lifestyle and budget.

For British citizens moving to Botswana for work, the job market can be competitive, particularly in sectors like finance, healthcare, education, and mining. Botswana is rich in natural resources, especially diamonds, which has made mining a key economic driver. However, the country is also making efforts to diversify its economy, offering opportunities in tourism, agriculture, and information technology.

Entrepreneurs and investors may find openings in underdeveloped sectors or niche markets. Starting a business in Botswana can be relatively straightforward, and the government actively encourages foreign investment, particularly in areas that contribute to national development.

Education and Schools

For families with children, Botswana offers a mix of public and private schooling options. While public schools follow the national curriculum and are generally more affordable, many British expats opt for private international schools that offer UK-based or International Baccalaureate (IB) curricula. These schools tend to be well-resourced, with smaller class sizes and a more global approach to education.

It’s advisable to research schools early and secure placement, especially in high-demand cities like Gaborone. School fees for international institutions can be significant, so planning ahead financially is important.

Botswana’s healthcare system is a blend of public and private services. While public hospitals and clinics are accessible, many expats prefer private healthcare facilities for their shorter wait times and higher standards of care. Gaborone has several modern clinics and hospitals offering a good range of medical services.

Health insurance is recommended for British citizens moving to Botswana, as it ensures access to the best facilities and helps cover the cost of private treatment. It’s also wise to locate the nearest clinic or hospital upon arrival and establish a relationship with a local doctor.

Botswana’s road network is relatively well-developed, especially between major cities and towns. Driving is on the left-hand side, just like in the UK, which makes adjusting to local road rules easier. Most British expats prefer owning a car for convenience, particularly in areas where public transport is limited.

Taxis and minibuses are common in urban centres, but they may not always operate on a strict schedule or offer the same level of comfort. For longer distances, domestic flights and long-distance buses are available and often reliable.

One of the most appealing aspects of living in Botswana is its incredible natural beauty. From the vast Kalahari Desert to the lush Okavango Delta, Botswana is a paradise for nature lovers. National parks and wildlife reserves are abundant, offering regular opportunities to see elephants, lions, and other iconic African species in their natural habitat.

Outdoor activities such as safari tours, bird watching, fishing, and hiking are popular among locals and expats alike. Moving to Botswana provides the chance to experience a lifestyle that’s deeply connected to nature and conservation.

Although the expat community in Botswana is relatively small, it’s close-knit and active. Social clubs, networking groups, and international organisations offer great opportunities to meet others, share experiences, and make new friends. Staying connected to both local and expat communities can help ease the transition and make everyday life more enjoyable.

Conclusion

Moving to Botswana as a British citizen is about more than just relocating—it’s about embracing a new rhythm of life, discovering a rich and diverse culture, and finding your place in a vibrant, welcoming society. With the right mindset, preparation, and openness to new experiences, Botswana can offer a deeply rewarding new chapter