Moving to Namibia

Moving Guide

Visa & Residence

Navigating the visa and residence permit process for Namibia largely depends on your nationality and the purpose of your stay. Citizens from certain countries, particularly within the European Union, may have different entry requirements compared to those from non-EU nations. Common routes for obtaining a long-term stay include:

• Work Permit: For individuals who have secured employment with a Namibian company. This typically requires an offer of employment and often involves the employer sponsoring the application.
• Family Permit: For spouses, dependent children, or other qualifying family members of Namibian citizens or residents.
• Study Permit: For those enrolled in educational institutions within Namibia.
• Residence Permit: For individuals seeking to reside in Namibia without direct employment or family ties, often requiring proof of independent financial means or investment.

The application process generally involves submitting various documents, including passports, birth certificates, marriage certificates (if applicable), police clearance certificates, and medical reports. It is crucial to verify the most current requirements, application forms, and processing times directly with the official Namibian immigration authorities or their embassy/consulate in your home country, as regulations can change.

Housing & Rental

Finding suitable housing in Namibia, especially in popular urban centers like Windhoek, Swakopmund, or Walvis Bay, can be done through several channels. Estate agents are a common and effective way to find properties, as they have access to a wide range of listings and can assist with viewings and negotiations. Online property portals and local classifieds in newspapers are also good resources. Word-of-mouth within expat communities can sometimes lead to private rental opportunities.

The typical rental process involves signing a lease agreement, which clearly outlines the terms and conditions of the tenancy, including rent amount, duration, and responsibilities of both landlord and tenant. A security deposit, usually equivalent to one or two months' rent, is standard practice and is held against potential damages or unpaid utilities. Ensure you conduct a thorough inventory check at the beginning of your tenancy to document the property's condition.

Consider whether you need temporary accommodation upon arrival, such as a guesthouse or short-term rental, while you search for a long-term home. Furnished options are available but generally come at a higher premium than unfurnished properties. Utilities like electricity and water are often billed separately and may require you to set up accounts in your name.

What Affects the Cost of Your Move

The overall cost of relocating to Namibia is influenced by several key factors. The volume and weight of your belongings are primary determinants; the more you move, the higher the cost. The distance of your move, particularly whether it's an international or intercontinental relocation, significantly impacts shipping expenses. The season in which you move can also play a role, with peak moving seasons sometimes incurring higher rates due to demand.

Access at origin and destination can affect labor costs; for example, if there are stairs, long carries, or difficult parking, additional resources may be needed. Finally, any extra services you opt for, such as professional packing, unpacking, storage, or specialized handling for fragile or valuable items, will add to the total cost. For an accurate and personalized estimate, it is always recommended to request a free, no-obligation quote.

Timeline & Packing Tips

A well-organized relocation timeline, starting 4-8 weeks before your move, can significantly reduce stress. Here's a checklist-style guide:

• 8 Weeks Out:
  • Declutter your home: Decide what to keep, donate, sell, or discard. This reduces moving volume and cost.
  • Research visa and residence permit requirements thoroughly and begin gathering necessary documents.
  • Obtain quotes from reputable relocation services.
• 6 Weeks Out:
  • Confirm your relocation service booking.
  • Start organizing important documents: passports, birth certificates, marriage certificates, medical records, school records, financial statements. Keep these in a secure, easily accessible folder for travel.
  • Notify schools, doctors, and other service providers of your move.
• 4 Weeks Out:
  • Begin packing non-essential items. Label boxes clearly with contents and the room they belong to.
  • Arrange for utility disconnections at your current home and connections at your new home in Namibia (electricity, water, internet).
  • Forward mail or set up a change of address.
• 2 Weeks Out:
  • Pack essential items you'll need immediately upon arrival in a "first-night box."
  • Confirm travel arrangements.
  • Empty refrigerators and freezers; clean appliances.
• 1 Week Out:
  • Confirm final details with your relocation service.
  • Prepare your "go bag" with essentials for your journey.
  • Finalize cleaning of your current home.
• Moving Day:
  • Be present to answer questions and supervise.
  • Do a final walk-through of your empty home.

Ready to make your move to Namibia? Request a free quote on relocation123.com today!

Visas, immigration & documents

Moving to this country often involves visas, residence permits, document translation/legalization and customs paperwork. Our verified partners handle the move itself; for visa or immigration help, send the request below and we'll point you the right way.

• Residence permit / visa (work, study, family)
• Document translation & apostille
• Customs clearance for personal effects
• Travel & goods insurance

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Customs & Import Rules

Moving to Namibia: Your Essential Customs & Import Guide

Relocating to Namibia involves navigating customs regulations to ensure a smooth transition for your personal belongings. This guide breaks down what you need to know for a hassle-free import process.

If you're relocating as a new resident

If you are moving to Namibia and hold a work permit valid for more than six months, you may be eligible for tax and duty exemptions on your used household and personal effects. It's vital to apply for this exemption as soon as possible after arriving.

What you'll need

• Clear packing list
• Completed NA304 form (original and compulsory)
• Completed P1.160 form (original and compulsory)
• Copy of your foreign passport (photo page and page showing re-entry stamp by Immigration control)
• Original foreign passport
• Original Bill of Lading / Air Waybill / Waybill / Telex release
• Detailed valued inventory in the currency of your origin country (each item must be valued)
• Residence / Work permit
• Copy of Carriers manifest/Bill of Lading
• Copies of your working contract (sensitive data can be hidden or erased)

Good to know

• If your work permit is not stamped in your passport upon shipment arrival, or if your tax exemption isn't granted, you can still release your cargo by making a provisional payment of 20% duties and 16.5% taxes. This payment is fully refundable once your situation is regularized.
• If you are residing in Namibia on a working visa, you will need to pay taxes (16.5%) and duties (20%) on the used goods value of your shipment unless an exemption is granted.
• Apply for your taxes and duties' exemption letter on personal effects at the Windhoek Customs Information Centre. Contact them at +264 61 209 2047 to inquire about required documents and to schedule an appointment.

Diplomatic moves

Diplomatic shipments benefit from duty-free import, provided the necessary "Certificate A" has been issued by your Embassy and stamped by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

What you'll need

• Certificate A issued by the relevant Embassy and stamped by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Good to know

• Diplomats in possession of a Certificate A are allowed to import alcohol without restrictions. However, it's advisable to consult your Embassy regarding potential quotas before shipping.
• No duties or taxes are applicable to motor vehicles imported by diplomats.

Bringing special items

Vehicles

You can import one motor vehicle per family duty-free, provided it has been owned and used for at least one year prior to shipment. However, VAT of 16.5% and duties of 25% are payable on the value of the vehicle.

What you'll need

• NA304 form
• Import permit (in quadruplicate)
• Registration documents
• Proof of value

Good to know

• Once imported, the vehicle cannot be sold or disposed of for a period of two years.
• Temporary residents do not need an import permit if the vehicle will be re-exported within one year.

Alcohol & tobacco

For non-diplomatic shipments, specific duties and taxes will apply to alcohol and tobacco products. Diplomats with a Certificate A have no restrictions on alcohol import, but should check with their Embassy for quotas.

Restricted & prohibited items

Certain items are strictly prohibited from entering Namibia. Be sure to review this list carefully.

• Narcotics and illicit drugs
• Pornographic books and magazines
• "Walkie Talkie" radios
• Certain feathers, furs, skins, tusks, etc., of animals protected under species regulations

Frequently asked questions

What determines if I have to pay taxes and duties on my household goods?
Your status as an importer and whether you qualify for an exemption based on your residency or work permit will determine if taxes and duties are applicable.

Can I apply for a tax exemption if my work permit isn't yet stamped in my passport?
If your permit isn't stamped upon shipment arrival, or if the exemption isn't granted, you can make a provisional payment of duties and taxes, which is fully refundable once your situation is regularized.

Where do I apply for tax and duty exemptions?
You should apply for your exemption letter at the Windhoek Customs Information Centre. It's recommended to contact them to find out about required documents and to make an appointment.

Is there a limit on the number of vehicles I can import?
Generally, only one motor vehicle per family can be imported duty-free under specific conditions.

What happens if I sell my imported vehicle soon after arriving?
Once imported, a vehicle may not be sold or disposed of for a period of two years.

Are there any items I absolutely cannot bring into Namibia?
Yes, items like narcotics, pornography, "Walkie Talkie" radios, and certain protected animal products are strictly prohibited.

For further assistance with your move to Namibia and navigating customs, please contact relocation123.com.

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