Botswana has one work visa, also known as a work permit, for all foreign employees working in the country under the Employment of the Non-Citizens Act. Employers cannot engage an employee unless they hold a valid Botswana work permit or a certificate of exemption.
Obtaining a work permit for Botswana is not the simplest of processes. The regulations are somewhat ambiguous and great emphasis is placed on the officials and immigration board in deciding further requirements and decisions.
Professional help saves time, and frustration and can only increase your chances of success.
Who needs to apply for a work permit for Botswana?
All expatriate workers who wish to take up employment in Botswana need to apply for a work permit.
All non-Botswana citizens require a work permit to engage in employment
No noncitizens of Botswana may engage in any occupation unless they have been granted a work permit for Botswana under the Employment of the Non-Citizens Act or are the holder of a certificate of exemption.
It is further stated that no employer shall engage a noncitizen if the citizen is not a holder of a work permit for Botswana or the holder of a certificate of exemption.
How difficult is the process?
A quick internet search will reveal that whilst the Botswana government recognizes the benefits of engaging expatriate skills that are not available there are huge frustrations with the work permit process and lots of ambiguity.
How does the process work for obtaining a work permit for Botswana?
- Compiling your application
The first step is compiling the actual application. Some of the included items need to be:
- Employer requirements
- Proof of the employer’s attempt to recruit Botswana citizens:
- Proof of a job advert in line with the prescribed requirements in terms of:
- Candidate requirements;
Contact details;
Minimum advertising period;
An exclusive period where only Botswana citizens can apply. - Individual requirements
- Valid job offer by means of a contract of employment/appointment letter;
- A work application;
- A current curriculum vitae (CV);
- Certified copies of certificates. This includes birth, marriage and education – noting they must all be translated into English;
- A Medical report;
- Certified copies of a valid passport;
- 4 Passport size photos;
- Applicable labor form.
Specific occupations will also require additional items such as registration with professional bodies and specific documentation applicable to their profession.
Submission process
The completed application and fee for the work permit for Botswana are then submitted to an authorized officer (via designated channels) where the application is reviewed and a recommendation made. The authorized officer is entitled to call in the applicant for an interview.
It is then forwarded for consideration to the Regional Immigrants selection board. The board may at any stage request further information. It is also the entitlement of the board to request further information that it deems relevant. Also, emphasis is placed upon the arrangements that are in place for the training of a Botswana individual to replace the appointed non-Botswana worker.
How long are work permits valid?
In short, they are issued with a validity period that the board feels to be appropriate.
Is there an appeals process?
If your application is turned down for a work permit for Botswana you can appeal the decision. Appeals are quite common, with skeptics pointing towards increased fees as a motive. The National Immigrants Selection Board carries out the review process for appeals.
Can a work permit be renewed?
Yes, a work permit can be renewed and the process is akin to that of an initial application.
Finding out more and apply for a work permit for Botswana
Integrate Immigration and its appointed representatives are able to assist you with all aspects of work permits for Botswana. Our aim is to supply a service that gives you all the need-to-know information and causes the least stress possible to our applicants.
Botswana has one work visa, also known as a work permit, for all foreign employees working in the country under the Employment of the Non-Citizens Act. Employers cannot engage an employee unless they hold a valid Botswana work permit or a certificate of exemption. The Immigration Board reviews all permits, then issues an appropriate validity period. Typically, employees can renew their permits by going through the initial application process again.
Requirements to Obtain Botswana Work Visas
While the Botswana government recognizes the importance of foreign talent, the application process includes numerous requirements and ambiguities that often weigh down employers and applicants. As an employer, you must show:
- Proof that you tried to recruit Botswana citizens first
- Proof of a job advert that listed candidate requirements, contact details, a minimum advertising period, and an exclusive period during which only Botswana citizens could apply
- Proof that the advert circulated for at least 14 days and that application were open only to Botswana citizens during that period
- Proof that the advert is no older than six months
Employees have their own separate requirements, including:
- A valid job offer reflected in an employment contract or appointment letter
- A work application
- A CV
- Certified copies of key certificates, including birth, marriage, and educational certificates, all translated into English
- A medical report
- Certified copies of a valid passport
- Four passport-size photos
- An applicable labor form
The Immigration Board may have additional requirements depending on the specific occupation. For example, some jobs require registration with professional bodies as well as specific documentation.
Do you need a visa to work in Botswana?
The employment visa is issued to individuals who wish to travel to Botswana for purposes of employment, internship, research, work, or voluntary services. This visa is issued with a validity period of six months and is extendable with justification.
How can I get a work permit in Botswana?
Work Permit Application
- Download, complete the Work permit application form and submit with supporting documents to the nearest Labour Office.
- Collection of Work permit after notification if approved.
- Applicant can check after service collection period.
How long can foreigners stay in Botswana?
90 days
Foreign nationals are allowed to stay in Botswana for a period of 90 days without applying for a residence or work permit.
How long is a work permit valid for in Botswana?
5 years
Employment permits are issued based on the validity of the contract of employment for up to a maximum of 5 years.