Employment Permit (Long-Term Work Permit)
NamibiaNamibia•Africa
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Employment Permit (Long-Term Work Permit)

Work PR PathwayThis visa can lead to permanent residency, the right to live and work here indefinitely without renewing your visa.

At a Glance

Processing Time

Varies

Estimated Cost

NAD $1,600

Stay Duration

3 months

Renewable

Renewal

Renewable

Family

Not specified

PR Pathway

Yes

Sponsor

Job offer required

Work

Remote not required

Official Information

Overview

Authorizes foreign nationals to work in Namibia for 1–3 years (renewable), requiring proof the position was advertised locally and no suitable Namibian candidate was found.

The Namibia Employment Permit (Long-Term Work Permit) is a formal authorization for foreign nationals to live and work in Namibia for a period ranging from one to three years. This permit is intended for skilled professionals, project managers, or contract workers whose expertise is required by a Namibian-registered entity. Because the Namibian government prioritizes local employment, the application process is rigorous; the employer must provide substantial evidence that the specific role could not be filled by a qualified Namibian citizen, often requiring proof of local job advertisements and a detailed recruitment report.

This permit grants both legal work authorization and temporary residence for the approved duration. It is a comprehensive process that involves the Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security, and requires the employer to act as a sponsor. Applicants must be prepared to submit extensive documentation, including medical and radiological reports, police clearances, and verified educational credentials. It is generally suited for individuals taking on long-term assignments or specialized roles that contribute to the Namibian economy.

Conversion Paths

Visas you can typically switch to from this status.

PRP — Permanent Residence Permit
Namibia flagNamibia

Requirements

PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS

Valid job offer from a Namibia-registered employer

Applicant must possess qualifications and/or work experience relevant to the role

Employer must demonstrate that the position cannot be filled by a Namibian citizen

Passport with at least 6 months validity

Good health (confirmed via medical and radiological reports)

Good conduct (confirmed via police clearance certificate)

KEY CRITERIA

Education

bachelor or higher

Experience

2+ years

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Completed and signed Visa Application Form (3-1/0033)

Completed and signed Work Permit Application Form (3-1/0001)

Two colour passport-sized photographs

Certified copy of passport bio-data page

Certified copies of educational qualifications and professional registrations

Original Police Clearance Certificate from country of origin/residence

Original Medical Certificate (3-1/0003) and Radiological Report (3-1/0004)

Motivation letter from the employer explaining the skills gap

Proof of job advertisement and recruitment report

Deed of Surety (Form 3-1/0005)

Company registration and tax good standing certificates

Application Process

1

Obtain job offer

Secure employment offer from Namibian employer

2

Employer advertises position

Employer posts vacancy in 3 national newspapers for 2 weeks minimum

3

Prepare documentation

Compile passport, qualifications, employment contract, and employer documents

4

Submit application

Submit via online portal or to embassy/consulate

5

Pay visa fee

Pay NAD 1,600 for 3 months or NAD 3,200 for 6 months

6

Await approval

Immigration authority reviews and approves

7

Receive visa

Visa issued in passport or as permit letter

Application Forms

Short-Term Work Visa Application—

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