Lesotho, a small kingdom entirely surrounded by South Africa, requires travelers to have a visa if they are not from one of the visa-exempt countries. Whether you’re planning a short visit or hoping to stay longer, understanding the visa requirements is key to having a smooth trip. Here’s a comprehensive, no-frills guide that covers the basics of getting a visa for Lesotho.
Visa-Exempt Countries
Good news if you’re from one of the countries that don’t need a visa to visit Lesotho. Travelers from these countries can enter Lesotho for a set period without needing to deal with the visa process. Generally, stays are limited to 14 or 30 days, depending on the country.
Countries That Are Visa-Exempt
The following countries are visa-exempt for Lesotho for short stays (tourism or business):
- All SADC (Southern African Development Community) member states
- United States
- United Kingdom
- Germany
- France
- Japan
- Australia
- Canada
- Sweden
- Denmark
- Norway
- New Zealand
If your country is not on this list, you’ll need a visa.
E-Visa For Lesotho
Lesotho offers an e-visa service for travelers from countries that are not visa-exempt. The e-visa application can be completed entirely online, making it convenient. You usually receive the visa within 3 to 5 business days if everything is in order.
Countries Eligible for the E-Visa
Travelers from most countries worldwide, except those from the visa-exempt list, can apply for an e-visa. Common nationalities that use this option include:
- India
- China
- Brazil
- Russia
- South Korea
How to Apply for an E-Visa
The e-visa application process is straightforward:
- Go to the Lesotho e-visa portal and create an account.
- Fill in the necessary information, including personal details and travel dates.
- Upload the required documents (passport, photos, and sometimes proof of accommodation or flight bookings).
- Pay the visa fee online using a credit or debit card.
- Submit your application and wait for approval. Once approved, your e-visa will be emailed to you.
Make sure to print out your e-visa to show at the border. Also, double-check the email confirmation you receive to ensure all details are correct.
Visa on Arrival
Lesotho does NOT offer a visa-on-arrival service. Travelers who require a visa must obtain one before they arrive in the country, either through an embassy, consulate, or the e-visa system.
Tourist Visa
Tourist visas are the most common type of visa for visitors to Lesotho. They are usually given for either 30 or 90 days, depending on your nationality. You can apply via the e-visa platform or your nearest Lesotho embassy.
Documents Required for a Tourist Visa
Here’s what you’ll typically need when applying for a tourist visa:
- Valid passport (with at least six months’ validity beyond your planned stay)
- Recent passport-sized photo
- Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings, Airbnb, etc.)
- Return flight ticket or proof of onward travel
- Completed visa application form
- Proof of sufficient funds for your stay
Business Visa
If you’re traveling to Lesotho for work or business, you can apply for a business visa. The process is similar to the tourist visa, but you may also need additional documents related to your business activities in the country.
Documents Required for a Business Visa
- Invitation letter from the company or organization in Lesotho
- Proof of business registration (for self-employed individuals)
- Copies of contracts or agreements related to your business trip
Student Visa
For those planning to study in Lesotho, a student visa is required. The process takes longer than the e-visa and you may need to apply early to ensure approval before your course begins. The visa length will depend on the duration of your program.
Documents Required for a Student Visa
- Acceptance letter from a recognized university or educational institution in Lesotho
- Proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay and tuition fees
- Evidence of accommodation for the duration of your course
- Recent passport-sized photos
- Completed visa application form
Special Cases: Diplomatic or Official Visas
If you’re a government official or diplomat, Lesotho offers special visas. These come with some exemptions, such as a waived visa fee. You’ll need to contact the Lesotho embassy in your country for the specific application process.
Visa Fees
The cost of Lesotho visas varies depending on the visa type and how you apply (e-visa or through an embassy). Here’s a rough idea of the fees:
- Single-entry tourist visa: $150
- Multiple-entry tourist visa: $200
- Single-entry business visa: $200
If you’re applying for an e-visa, additional service fees may apply.
Practical Visa Tips
A few final things to keep in mind:
- Always apply for your visa early. Aim for at least two to four weeks before your trip.
- Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your trip. Some visa-related issues are tied to expiring passports.
- If you’re applying for an e-visa, double-check your details before submitting the form to avoid delays or rejection.
- Travel insurance may not be officially required but is highly recommended.
Most importantly, stay patient. Visa applications can take time, and having all your documents in order will make the process smoother.
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