Botswana student visa and residence permit

Every non-citizen who wishes to stay in Botswana beyond the visitation period needs a residence permit, and students apply in this category. Persons over 18 apply separately, supported by the person or institution on whom they depend.

Forms 15 and 3, a certified passport data page valid for more than six months, a certified birth certificate, one colour photo, a letter of support or sponsorship with full particulars, the admission letter stating the programme of study and duration, a certified receipt for school fees and the BWP 1,500 fee. For the study visa itself, the embassy lists the study permit or approval letter, the admission letter and proof of funds or means of support.

The student residence permit costs BWP 1,500. The study visa is issued free of charge.

Submit the forms to any immigration office or mission and pay. The outcome is checked at the office where you applied; if successful, a residence permit sticker is endorsed in the passport. If refused, you can appeal or must leave the country. Apply for the free study visa on evisa.gov.bw with the permit approval.

The study visa is issued to students accepted by educational institutions in Botswana, and the applicant must already hold a valid study or research permit. It is applied for on evisa.gov.bw, or on Form 1 at an immigration office, embassy or consulate, with certified copies of passport pages 1 and 2 valid at least six months, two colour photos, a covering letter, flight and accommodation details or a residential address, a re-entry permit where needed, the letter of acceptance, the study or research permit and proof of sponsorship. The outcome comes after 7 to 14 working days, online or at the office, and an unprinted visa can be printed at the port of entry.

Student residence permits are taken by the Migration and Visa Division of the Department of Immigration and Citizenship at Block 8, Government Enclave, Khama Crescent, Gaborone, by regional and district immigration offices and by missions. Offices open 07:30 to 12:45 and 13:45 to 16:30 on weekdays; the department answers on +267 361 1300 and toll free on 0800 600 777.