Namibia: U.S. Embassy Windhoek Reminds Visa Holders - Overstays Carry Serious Consequences

30 March 2026
United States Embassy (Windhoek)
press release

WINDHOEK, NAMIBIA - "I strongly urge all Namibians traveling to the United States to follow our immigration rules. Responsible travel supports a safe, secure, and fair immigration system for everyone. Remember: a visa is a privilege, not a right." - U.S. Ambassador John Giordano.

The U.S. Embassy in Namibia emphasizes its ongoing commitment to facilitating lawful and secure travel between Namibia and the United States. As international travel increases, the Embassy reminds all travelers of the importance of adhering to the terms and conditions of the traveler's U.S. visa and authorized period of stay in the United States.

Visa holders who remain in the United States beyond their authorized period of stay, as determined by U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the I-94 "Admit Until Date" they provide upon entry, risk significant consequences. Such actions undermine the integrity of the U.S. immigration system and may permanently affect an individual's ability to travel, study, or work in the United States.

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Overstaying your visa can result in travel bans, visa ineligibility, or in some cases, criminal charges.

Consular officers routinely review immigration records, including entry and departure history. Past violations will be considered in all future visa applications.

Unfortunately, there is no such thing as an "honest mistake" when it comes to overstays. Intent does not excuse noncompliance.

How long a visitor is permitted to stay in the United States is determined by the "Admit Until Date" provided by U.S. Customs and Border Protection on Form I-94 upon entry into the United States, not the visa expiration date.

For more information, please visit the U.S. Department of State website: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas.html

Read the original article on U.S. Embassy Windhoek.

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