Lesotho offers various visa types for different purposes, including business, work, study, and tourism. To apply, submit required documents such as passport, application form, and proof of financial means. Business visas need a letter from the Lesotho company inviting the applicant, while work visas require a job offer and work permit. Student visas necessitate acceptance from a Lesotho educational institution. All applications are processed through the Lesotho High Commission or Embassy in your country. Fees vary depending on the visa type and length of stay.
Table of Contents
Important informations
| Country | Visa Required |
|---|---|
| Antigua and Barbuda, Jamaica, Samoa, Bahamas, Japan, San Marino, Bangladesh, Kenya, Seychelles, Barbados, Kiribati, Sierra Leone, Belize, South Korea, Singapore, Botswana, Malawi, Solomon Islands, Brunei, Malaysia, South Africa, Cameroon, Maldives, Sri Lanka, Dominica, Mauritius, Tonga, Gambia, Namibia, Trinidad and Tobago, Grenada, Nauru, Tuvalu, Guyana, Papua New Guinea, Uganda, Hong Kong, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Vanuatu, Ireland, Saint Lucia, Zambia, Israel, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Zimbabwe | No visa required for 90 days |
| Australia, Italy, Austria, Luxembourg, Belgium, Netherlands, Canada, New Zealand, Cyprus, Norway, Czechia, Portugal, Denmark, Spain, Finland, Sweden, France, Switzerland, Germany, United Kingdom, Iceland, United States | Can stay for two weeks without a visa |
Who Needs a Visa for Lesotho?
Citizens of the following countries do not require a visa to enter Lesotho for tourism or business purposes for a stay up to 90 days: Angola, Argentina, Belize, Botswana, Brazil, China, Cuba, Eswatini, Fiji, Grenada, Hong Kong SAR, Iceland, India, Japan, Kiribati, Leicester Island, Macao SAR, Malawi, Maldives, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Nauru, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Peru, Seychelles, Singapore, South Africa, Solomon Islands, South Korea, Taiwan, Tanzania, Thailand, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Uganda, Ukraine, Uruguay, Vanuatu, Venezuela, Vietnam, and Zambia.
Citizens of all other countries must obtain a Lesotho visa prior to travel. The Lesotho High Commission or Consulate in the applicant’s country of residence can provide information on the application process and required documentation. It is recommended to apply for a visa well in advance of travel to allow sufficient processing time.
How to Apply for a Lesotho Visa?
To apply for a Lesotho visa, follow these steps:
1. Determine the type of visa you need based on the purpose and duration of your stay. Lesotho offers various visa categories such as business, work, study, tourist, and transit visas.
2. Gather the required documents. Depending on the visa type, you may need to provide documents such as a valid passport, completed application form, proof of financial means, travel itinerary, and invitation letter from a Lesotho sponsor.
3. Submit your application. You can apply for a Lesotho visa through the Lesotho High Commission or Consulate in your country, or through a registered travel agency. You may also apply online through the Lesotho Immigration Services website.
4. Pay the visa fee. The visa fee varies depending on the visa type and length of stay. You can pay the fee online or in person at the Lesotho High Commission or Consulate.
5. Wait for processing. The processing time for a Lesotho visa can take up to 30 days. You can check the status of your application online or by contacting the Lesotho Immigration Services.
6. Collect your visa. Once your application is approved, you will receive your Lesotho visa in the form of a sticker in your passport or an electronic visa if you applied online. Make sure to print a copy of your visa to carry with you when traveling to Lesotho.
Lesotho Visa Requirements
Lesotho visa requirements:
Lesotho, an enclave located in southern Africa, requires foreign nationals to obtain a visa before entering the country. The Lesotho High Commission or Embassy in your home country can issue various types of visas, including business, tourist, work, and student visas.
Applicants must provide essential documents, such as a valid passport, completed application form, recent passport-sized photographs, proof of sufficient funds, and a return or onward ticket. Business visa applicants may also need to submit a letter from their employer or proof of business registration.
Processing times for visas may vary, and applicants are encouraged to apply well in advance of their intended travel date. Visa fees depend on the type and duration of stay, and they are subject to change. It’s essential to check the Lesotho High Commission or Embassy website for the most up-to-date information on visa requirements and fees.
Upon arrival in Lesotho, travelers may be required to present their visa, passport, and other supporting documents to immigration officials. Failure to comply with Lesotho visa requirements may result in denial of entry or deportation.
Lesotho Visa Processing Time
Lesotho visa processing time varies depending on the type of visa application and the embassy or consulate processing the application. Ordinarily, tourist visas can be processed within 48 hours to two weeks, while business visas and work permits may take up to a month or more. Applicants are advised to submit complete and accurate documentation to avoid delays. Expedited processing may be available for an additional fee. It’s essential to apply well in advance of travel plans to allow for potential delays.
Duration of a Lesotho Visa
A Lesotho visa’s duration varies depending on the type and purpose of the visit. Generally, there are two main categories: tourist visas and work visas. Tourist visas are usually valid for up to 30 days, which can be extended once for an equal period. Work visas, on the other hand, can range from 3 months to 3 years, depending on the nature of the employment. It’s essential to apply for the correct visa type and duration to avoid complications during your stay in Lesotho.
Lesotho Visa Fees
Lesotho visa fees vary depending on the type of visa and the applicant’s nationality. For instance, a single-entry tourist visa costs $30 for citizens of most countries, while a multiple-entry visa costs $120. Business visas range from $50 for a single entry to $250 for a multiple-entry visa. Diplomatic and service visas are free of charge. Applicants should note that these fees are subject to change and it is important to check the Lesotho High Commission or Embassy website for the most up-to-date information. Visa application fees must be paid in full at the time of submission and can be paid in cash or by credit card. Refunds are not issued for unused visas.
Lesotho Visa Types
Lesotho offers various visa types for foreign nationals intending to enter the country. The types include:
1. Tourist Visa: Issued for individuals planning a holiday or short-term visit to Lesotho. It is valid for up to 30 days and can be extended once for an equal period.
2. Business Visa: Intended for individuals conducting business activities in Lesotho, such as attending conferences, negotiating contracts, or setting up a business. It is valid for up to 90 days and can be extended.
3. Work Permit: Required for foreigners seeking employment in Lesotho. The employer must apply on behalf of the employee and provide proof of qualifications and job offer.
4. Student Visa: Issued to students enrolled in recognized educational institutions in Lesotho. It is valid for the duration of the study program.
5. Transit Visa: Granted to individuals passing through Lesotho en route to another country. It is valid for up to 7 days.
6. Diplomatic Visa: Issued to diplomats, consular officers, and their families. It is valid for the duration of their assignment.
Applicants must meet the eligibility criteria and submit the necessary documents to apply for a Lesotho visa. It is recommended to apply well in advance of the intended travel date.
Lesotho Residence Permit
Lesotho Residence Permit is an official document that grants foreigners the right to reside and work in Lesotho for a specified period. The permit is issued by the Ministry of Labour and Employment, and it is required for anyone intending to stay in the country for more than 90 days. There are several types of residence permits, including work permits, business permits, and retirement permits. Each type has specific requirements and conditions. For instance, work permits are issued to individuals who have secured employment in Lesotho, while business permits are issued to entrepreneurs who intend to start or operate a business in the country. The permit application process involves submitting required documents, paying the application fee, and attending an interview. It is important to note that residence permits must be renewed periodically, and failure to do so may result in fines or deportation.
Why Should You Visit Lesotho?
Lesotho, an enclave located in the heart of South Africa, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Known as the „Kingdom in the Sky,” Lesotho boasts breathtaking landscapes, including the highest peak in Southern Africa, Thabana Ntlenyana, and the vast expanse of the Maluti Mountains. Visitors can experience the unique Basotho culture, evident in their vibrant traditional dress and intricate beadwork. Adventure seekers can participate in activities such as hiking, horseback riding, and fly-fishing in the crystal-clear rivers. Furthermore, Lesotho’s remote location offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and endless opportunities for adventure, Lesotho is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic and unforgettable experience.
Eligible countries
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Jamaica
- Samoa
- Bahamas
- Japan
- San Marino
- Bangladesh
- Kenya
- Seychelles
- Barbados
- Kiribati
- Sierra Leone
- Belize
- South Korea
- Singapore
- Botswana
- Malawi
- Solomon Islands
- Brunei
- Malaysia
- South Africa
- Cameroon
- Maldives
- Sri Lanka
- Dominica
- Malta
- Tanzania
- Eswatini
- Mauritius
- Tonga
- Gambia
- Namibia
- Trinidad and Tobago
- Grenada
- Nauru
- Tuvalu
- Guyana
- Papua New Guinea
- Uganda
- Hong Kong
- Saint Kitts and Nevis
- Vanuatu
- Ireland
- Saint Lucia
- Zambia
- Israel
- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
- Zimbabwe
- Australia
- Italy
- Austria
- Luxembourg
- Belgium
- Netherlands
- Canada
- New Zealand
- Cyprus
- Norway
- Czechia
- Portugal
- Denmark
- Spain
- Finland
- Sweden
- France
- Switzerland
- Germany
- United Kingdom
- Iceland
- United States
Citizens of the above countries do not need a visa to enter Lesotho and stay in the country for 90 days (for some, 2 weeks).
Summary
The Kingdom of Lesotho, located in South Africa and known for its high altitude, offers unique experiences and attractions for visitors. Here are the key points about Lesotho visas:
1. Citizens of certain countries do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days, while citizens of other countries can stay for two weeks without a visa. (Check the list in the text for details.)
2. To apply for a Lesotho visa, go to the official e-Visa page, select the type of visa, fill out the application form, attach required documents, and pay the applicable fee.
3. Required documents include a valid passport, travel ticket, invitation letter, introduction letter, bank statement, immunization card, and travel insurance.
4. The processing time for a Lesotho e-Visa is typically between two to three working days.
5. Lesotho e-Visa durations and fees depend on the type of visa:
– Single entry: 44-day stay, valid for 90 days from issuance. ($150)
– Multiple entries: six-month validity. ($250)
6. Different types of Lesotho visas include tourist, business, student, diplomatic, and others. Each has specific requirements, durations, and fee payments.
7. To apply for a Lesotho residence permit, visit the Ministry of Home Affairs’ facilitation center in Maseru. There are two types: two-year and indefinite. Both can be issued for various purposes.
8. Lesotho offers numerous attractions, such as Lesotho Mountain Crafts, Pioneer Mall, Setcoto Design, Sky Adventures, and Qacha’s Nek Snake Park.