Gaborone — Botswana nationals will require an entry visa to visit the United Kingdom (UK) with effect from October 14.

According to the press statement from the Ministry for International Relations, the announcement comes in response to the ongoing illegal and irregular migration of Batswana to the UK, including the significant number of asylum applications from Batswana since 2022.

Therefore, the UK government has revoked the 'visa free status' and introduced a visitor visa requirement for Batswana planning to visit the UK.

Furthermore, Batswana transiting through the UK, will also require a direct airside transit visa, which similarly comes into effect from October 14.

The statement reveals that a six-week transition period that concludes on November 25, will be put in place to facilitate Batswana who hold an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) and have already booked their travel to the UK prior to the introduction of the visa requirement.

Nonetheless, the government of Botswana wishes to assure the public that through diplomatic channels, it will continue to engage the UK government on the matter to explore durable solutions, mutually beneficial for both countries and their citizens.

The statement urges Batswana travelling to the UK or visiting other countries to continue to adhere to immigration laws and regulations of those countries.

BOPA