All travelers landing at these airports must present a PCR test that is not older than 72 hours from the time of departure from the country of origin to South Africa.
Due to discordant periods for taking booster shots between Botswana and other countries, and for purposes of smoothening international travel, the definition of being fully vaccinated in Botswana will no longer include a booster shot. having completed the primary vaccine series will be considered sufficient for one to be allowed entry, without the need to present a negative PCR test result.
Those who will be partially vaccinated, or not vaccinated at all, will be required to present a negative 72-hour PCR test result and in addition, undergo COVID-19 testing at a port of entry, at their own cost. If negative, they will be allowed to proceed into the country. If positive, they will be isolated in the district of the port of entry at their own cost and allowed to proceed into the country only after recovery.
Please note that these changes allow partially vaccinated or unvaccinated people to enter the country if they comply with the required testing requirements. It is only when one is not fully vaccinated and is also not willing to undergo COVID-19 testing at the port of entry, that they will be charged and fined or taken to a court of law.
The ministry wishes to emphasize that the removal of boosters from the equation, does not mean that boosters are no longer important. The ministry encourages all those eligible to take up boosters in order to keep their immunity against COVID-19 high. Members of the public are further encouraged to keep following all COVID-19 protocols since the pandemic is still with us. The ministry will from time to time advise on any new developments that may rise as the nation continues to battle with the pandemic.
Click here to download the press release on new changes at ports
Do you still need a Covid test to enter Botswana?
There is no requirement for a COVID-19 test to enter Botswana.
Do you need a Covid test to enter South Africa from Botswana?
People who are allowed into South Africa are still subject to the prescribed screening procedures and isolation or quarantine rules, as the case may be, which include: the provision of a valid certificate of a negative COVID-19 test obtained not more than 72 hours before the date of travel
What does it mean to be fully vaccinated in Botswana?
Update 2022-07-07: In order to make international travel easier, Botswana has adjusted the official definition of full vaccination coverage: Persons are considered “fully vaccinated” if they have received at least two doses of vaccine (or one dose of Johnson & Johnson’s vaccine).
Do I need a visa for Botswana?
Visa-Category: A visa is required and obtained on arrival or prior to arrival on the Botswana e-visa portal. Length of stay – All nationalities can stay for a maximum of 90 days in any 12-month period for holiday purposes, without a permit. For important updates, be sure to check our NEWSFLASH page.