Botswana entry requirements for Cameroon passport holders
Updated weekly · Last reviewed June 28, 2026·View sources
eVisa required
Max stay
No fixed limit
Passport validity
6 months
Beyond entry date
Return ticket
Required
Or onward travel proof
Proof of funds
Recommended
May be checked
Cameroonian passport holders need an eVisa to travel to Botswana. The eVisa covers tourism and business visits, and you must apply online before traveling. As of 2026, the process is straightforward but requires careful attention to passport validity and supporting documents.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| eVisa application Apply before travel | Apply for a Botswana eVisa at the official eServices portal before departure. Processing takes 5–10 business days, so submit at least two weeks ahead. Print the approval letter and carry it with your passport to present at immigration in Gaborone or Maun.Apply for eVisa | Required |
| Valid passport Must cover entire stay | Your passport must be valid for at least the full duration of your stay in Botswana. Airlines check this at check-in, and immigration officers at Sir Seretse Khama Airport will deny boarding if it expires before your departure date. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Required for entry | Immigration officers routinely ask for proof of a return or onward flight out of Botswana. Have a printed or digital copy of your ticket ready — they check this at the border, not just at check-in. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Recommended to carry | While not always requested, having a hotel booking or a letter of invitation from a host speeds up the immigration process. Officers may ask where you are staying, especially if you arrive without a clear itinerary. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Recommended to carry | Carry evidence of sufficient funds, such as a bank statement or credit card showing available credit. Immigration may ask how you plan to support yourself during your stay, especially for longer visits. | Recommended |
Passport validity is critical
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date you enter Botswana. If it's less, your eVisa will be rejected and you won't be allowed to board. Check your passport now, not the night before your flight.
No visa on arrival
Botswana does not offer a visa on arrival for Cameroonian passport holders. You must have an approved eVisa before you travel. Plan ahead.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for eVisa online
Go to the official Botswana eVisa website. Fill in your personal details, upload a passport photo, and a copy of your passport bio page. Pay the fee (if any) and submit. Processing usually takes 3-5 business days.
2
Receive eVisa approval
You'll get an email with your eVisa approval. Print a copy and also save it on your phone. Double-check that your name and passport number match exactly.
3
Prepare documents for travel
Gather your passport, eVisa printout, return ticket, and accommodation booking. Keep them in a folder you can access easily at the airport and at immigration.
4
Arrive at Botswana immigration
At the airport (usually Sir Seretse Khama International Airport in Gaborone or Maun), go to the immigration counter. Hand over your passport and eVisa. The officer will stamp your passport. No additional forms needed.
Download Botswana Entry Checklist
PDF · Cameroon Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated June 28, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Tourist visa single entry
Max stay30 days, extendable 30 days
Validity3 months from issue
Cost~$30 USD (approx. 400 BWP)
Standard option for tourism; extension possible at immigration office.
Tourist visa multiple entry
Max stay30 days per entry, extendable 30 days
Validity6 months from issue
Cost~$60 USD (approx. 800 BWP)
For frequent travelers; extension possible per entry.
Long-stay visa (business/study)
Max stayUp to 1 year
Validity1 year
Cost~$100 USD (approx. 1,350 BWP)
Requires sponsorship from employer or educational institution.
work visa
Work Permit
Up to 2 years, renewable
~$200 USD (approx. 2,700 BWP) application fee
For those with a job offer in Botswana. Requires employer sponsorship and proof of qualifications.
student visa
Student Visa
Duration of studies, renewable annually
~$100 USD (approx. 1,350 BWP) application fee
For enrollment in a recognized educational institution in Botswana. Requires acceptance letter and proof of funds.
investor visa
Investor Permit
Up to 5 years, renewable
~$500 USD (approx. 6,750 BWP) application fee
For individuals investing a minimum of $100,000 USD in Botswana. Requires business plan and proof of investment.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| eVisa (single entry)Standard tourist eVisa fee for Cameroon passport holders. | BWP 600 (~$45 USD) |
| eVisa (multiple entry)Allows multiple entries within validity period. | BWP 1,200 (~$90 USD) |
| Overstay fine per dayPenalty for exceeding authorized stay. | BWP 200 (~$15 USD) per day, max BWP 5,000 (~$375 USD) |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Incomplete application20%
Approval probability calculator
Answer 6 quick questions — we'll estimate how likely you are to be approved for entry based on typical immigration patterns.
Transiting through Botswana
No transit visa needed
Cameroon passport holders transiting through Botswana do not need a transit visa if they remain airside and have a confirmed onward ticket. However, if leaving the airport, a visa is required.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Exceptions & conditions
- Holders of a valid US, UK, or Schengen visa may transit without visa for up to 48 hours.
Transit hubsSir Seretse Khama International Airport (GBE) · Maun Airport (MUB) · Francistown Airport (FRW)
Health & vaccines for Botswana
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired if arriving from a country with yellow fever risk, including Cameroon.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidEssentialRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio)RecommendedRabiesConsider
Health risks
MalariaHigh risk
Present throughout Botswana, especially in northern regions like Okavango Delta.
Dengue feverModerate risk
Occasional outbreaks, especially during rainy season.
Foodborne illnessModerate risk
Risk from contaminated food and water; practice good hygiene.
Malaria risk: high
Malaria is high in northern Botswana (Okavango, Chobe). Prophylaxis recommended for all travelers to these areas.
Based on CDC and WHO guidance. Consult a travel medicine clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalised advice.
Immigration offices for extensions
Gaborone
Department of Immigration and Citizenship
Plot 543, Independence Avenue, Gaborone
Mon–Fri 08:00–16:30
Main office for visa extensions and permits; bring passport, photos, and fee.
Francistown
Francistown Immigration Office
Plot 123, Blue Jacket Street, Francistown
Mon–Fri 08:00–16:30
Regional office for northern Botswana; similar services as Gaborone.
Practical information for CM travellers
Country basics
CapitalGaborone
LanguageEnglish, Setswana
Driving sideLeft-hand traffic
US driving licenceUS visitors can drive with a valid US license for up to 90 days; an International Driving Permit is recommended.
Money
CurrencyBotswana pula (BWP)
Exchange rate
1 USD = 14.32 BWP
Time zone
Local timeUTC+2
vs New York+7h
vs Los Angeles+10h
Electricity
Voltage230V / 50Hz
Plug types
D,GType D (3-pin round) and Type G (3-pin rectangular) plugs.
⚠ US adapter needed
Water & health
Tap water
Not safe — use bottled
Tap water is generally chlorinated and safe in major cities, but avoid in rural areas.
Emergency numbers
Frequently asked questions
Processing usually takes 3-5 business days. Apply at least a week before your trip to be safe. There is no expedited option mentioned.
No, the eVisa is not extendable. You must leave before it expires. If you need to stay longer, you would need to apply for a different visa type from outside Botswana.
Your eVisa will likely be rejected. Renew your passport first, then apply. Immigration at the border may also deny entry if your passport is close to expiring.
It is not listed as a requirement for Cameroon passport holders, but it's wise to have a bank statement or credit card available in case an officer asks.
No. You must have an approved eVisa before you travel. There is no visa on arrival option.
You will be denied entry and sent back on the next flight. Airlines also check for the eVisa before boarding, so you won't even get on the plane.
The standard eVisa is for single entry. If you plan to leave and re-enter Botswana, you'll need a new eVisa each time.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on June 28, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.