Lesotho Passport Visa Free Countries (2025)

Lesotho passport holders can travel visa-free to several countries across various continents. Here’s a categorized list of these destinations:

Lesotho Passport Visa Free Countries

Africa:

Angola
Benin
Botswana
Gambia
Ghana
Kenya
Malawi
Mauritius
Namibia
South Africa
Tanzania
Uganda
Zambia
Zimbabwe
Eswatini

Asia:

Bangladesh
Hong Kong
Israel
Japan
Malaysia
Philippines
Singapore

Europe:

Ireland
Kosovo

North America:

Antigua and Barbuda
Bahamas
Barbados
Belize
Dominica
Grenada
Haiti
Jamaica
Saint Kitts and Nevis
Saint Lucia
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Trinidad and Tobago

South America:

Ecuador
Guyana

Oceania:

Fiji
Kiribati
Micronesia
Vanuatu

Please note that visa requirements can change, and it’s essential to verify the current entry regulations of your destination before traveling. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, consult the official government websites or contact the embassies or consulates of the countries you plan to visit.

What Countries Do Lesotho Citizens Need A Visa For?

Lesotho citizens require a visa to enter approximately 134 countries and territories. This includes nations such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and most European Union member states. Additionally, countries like China, Russia, and India also necessitate a visa for Lesotho passport holders.

It’s important to note that visa requirements can change, and some countries may offer alternative entry options such as eVisas or visas on arrival. For instance, Lesotho citizens can obtain eVisas for countries like India and Australia, and visas on arrival for nations such as Jordan and the Maldives.

Given the variability in entry requirements, it’s advisable to consult the official government websites or contact the consulates of your destination country before planning your travel. This ensures you have the most up-to-date information and can make the necessary arrangements for a smooth journey.

Do Lesotho Citizens Need Visa For America?

Yes, citizens of Lesotho are required to obtain a visa prior to traveling to the United States. The U.S. Department of State specifies that individuals from foreign countries, including Lesotho, must secure a visa, which is placed in the traveler’s passport, before entering the U.S.

To apply for a U.S. visa, Lesotho citizens should contact the U.S. Embassy in Maseru. The embassy provides nonimmigrant visa services for all of Lesotho. For immigrant and K visa applications, nationals of Lesotho are processed by the U.S. Consulate General in Johannesburg, South Africa.

It’s important to note that visa requirements and application procedures can change. Therefore, it’s advisable to consult the official U.S. Department of State website or contact the U.S. Embassy in Maseru directly for the most current information before making travel plans.

Do Lesotho Citizens Need Visa For Europe?

Yes, citizens of Lesotho are required to obtain a visa to travel to European countries within the Schengen Area. The Schengen Area comprises 27 European countries that have abolished internal borders, allowing for free and unrestricted movement of people. However, for citizens of countries like Lesotho, a Schengen visa is necessary for short-term stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

To apply for a Schengen visa, Lesotho citizens typically need to submit their applications to the embassy or consulate of the Schengen country that is their main destination. If there is no embassy or consulate of that country in Lesotho, applicants may need to apply through the embassy or consulate of another Schengen country that handles visa applications on behalf of the destination country. For example, to apply for a Schengen visa for the Netherlands, Lesotho citizens are directed to the VFS Global application centers in South Africa.

It’s important to note that visa application procedures, required documentation, and processing times can vary between countries. Therefore, it’s advisable to consult the official website of the embassy or consulate of the destination country for the most accurate and up-to-date information before planning your travel.

Additionally, the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is expected to be implemented in mid-2025. ETIAS will require visa-exempt travelers to obtain authorization before entering Schengen countries. However, since Lesotho citizens currently require a visa to enter the Schengen Area, ETIAS will not apply to them unless their visa requirements change in the future.

In summary, as of now, Lesotho citizens must obtain a Schengen visa prior to traveling to Europe. It’s essential to check the specific entry requirements of the country you plan to visit and to apply for the appropriate visa well in advance of your intended travel dates

Countries That Gives Visa On Arrival For Lesotho Passport Holders?

Lesotho passport holders have the option to obtain a visa on arrival in several countries across different continents. Here’s a categorized list of these countries:

Africa:

Burundi
Cape Verde
Comoros
Ethiopia
Guinea-Bissau
Madagascar
Mauritania
Mozambique
Nigeria
Rwanda
Senegal
Seychelles
Sierra Leone
Somalia
Togo

Asia:

Cambodia
Jordan
Macau
Maldives
Nepal
Sri Lanka

Oceania:

Palau
Samoa
Timor-Leste
Tuvalu

Americas:

Bolivia
Nicaragua

Upon arrival at the immigration checkpoint in these countries, travelers may need to complete the requisite paperwork, provide necessary documentation, and pay the relevant visa fee. The visa issued will grant authorization to enter and remain in the country for a specified duration and purpose.

Please note that visa policies are subject to change. It’s advisable to check the latest entry requirements with the official government or embassy websites of your destination country before planning your travel.

Traveling To UK For Lesotho Passport Holders?

Traveling to the United Kingdom (UK) as a Lesotho passport holder involves certain requirements and procedures, including visa applications, travel documentation, and adherence to UK immigration rules.

Yes, Lesotho passport holders require a visa to enter the UK, regardless of the purpose or duration of their visit. The visa type you apply for will depend on your purpose of travel, such as tourism, work, study, or visiting family.

Types of UK Visas Available

Standard Visitor Visa:
- For tourism, family visits, or short-term business activities.
- Valid for up to six months, with possible extensions under specific circumstances.
Student Visa:
- For individuals planning to study in the UK.
- You’ll need an offer from a UK educational institution and proof of financial capability to cover tuition and living expenses.
Work Visa:
- Includes skilled worker visas, health and care worker visas, and others.
- Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria, including a job offer from a UK employer.
Transit Visa:
- For travelers passing through the UK en route to another destination.
Settlement Visa:
- For those joining family members already residing in the UK.

Steps for Applying for a UK Visa

1. Determine Your Visa Type

Identify the appropriate visa category for your purpose of travel. Check the UK government’s website for detailed visa descriptions.

2. Prepare Required Documents

Commonly required documents include:

A valid Lesotho passport (with at least six months of validity from your planned arrival date).
A completed visa application form.
Recent passport-sized photographs.
Proof of financial means (e.g., bank statements, sponsorship letters).
Evidence of accommodation arrangements in the UK.
Travel itinerary, including return flight details.
Proof of ties to Lesotho, such as employment or property ownership, to demonstrate your intent to return.
Supporting documents specific to your visa type (e.g., a Certificate of Sponsorship for work visas or an acceptance letter for student visas).

3. Complete the Online Application

Submit your application online through the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) portal. Pay the required application fee based on your visa type.

4. Schedule a Biometrics Appointment

Book an appointment at a visa application center (VAC) to submit your biometrics (fingerprints and a photograph). Lesotho nationals may need to visit a VAC in a neighboring country if no facilities are available locally.

5. Attend the Visa Appointment

Bring all required documents to your appointment. Be prepared to answer questions about your travel plans and intentions.

6. Wait for a Decision

Visa processing times vary depending on the type of visa and the season. Standard visitor visas typically take around three weeks, but it’s wise to apply well in advance.

Visa Fees and Financial Requirements

The cost of UK visas varies:

Standard Visitor Visa: Approximately £100 for stays up to six months.
Student Visa: Around £363 for the application fee, plus a healthcare surcharge.
Work Visa: Fees range from £610 to £1,400, depending on the job role and visa length.

Applicants must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover their trip. This includes proof of accommodation, transportation, and daily living expenses.

Travel Tips for Lesotho Passport Holders

Book Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance is essential to cover unexpected emergencies during your stay.
Abide by Immigration Rules: Ensure compliance with your visa conditions. Overstaying your visa can lead to penalties, including bans on future UK travel.
Plan Accommodation in Advance: Have confirmed accommodation bookings before arriving.
Stay Updated on Travel Restrictions: Monitor UK travel advisories, especially regarding health and safety measures like COVID-19 regulations.
Understand Customs Regulations: Familiarize yourself with UK customs rules on prohibited items, duty-free limits, and currency declarations.

Entry into the UK

Upon arrival, Lesotho passport holders must present the following at UK border control:

A valid passport with the visa affixed.
Proof of your travel purpose and duration (e.g., hotel reservations, return tickets).
Any supporting documents requested during your visa application.

UK Border Officers may ask additional questions to confirm your eligibility for entry.

If you wish to extend your stay or switch to another visa category while in the UK, you must apply before your current visa expires. Some visa categories, like visitor visas, generally cannot be extended.

Common Challenges and Solutions

Visa Denials: Reasons for rejection may include insufficient documentation, financial instability, or doubts about the applicant’s intent to return to Lesotho. Address these issues thoroughly in your application.
Delays in Processing: Apply early to avoid last-minute stress, especially during peak travel seasons.
Limited VAC Access: Lesotho nationals may need to travel to nearby countries for biometrics. Plan your time and resources accordingly.

Conclusion

Please note that visa requirements can change, and it’s essential to verify the current entry regulations of your destination before traveling.