Namibia is set to introduce a new five-year permit for qualifying foreign investors and business owners from September 1, 2026.
The new permit will provide eligible foreign nationals with a longer-term option to live and operate businesses in the country.
The Employment Permit to Conduct Business has been introduced by Namibia’s Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security.
Under the new system, qualifying foreign investors and business owners will be allowed to stay in Namibia for up to five years.
The new permit offers a significantly longer validity period than the existing Investor Permit.
Namibia’s current Investor Permit is generally issued for a period of up to two years.
Applications for the new five-year permit will have to be submitted manually through the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB).
The NIPDB will assess each proposed investment before forwarding eligible applications to the Chief of Immigration.
The assessment will consider the proposed investment and its potential economic impact on Namibia.
After the application is reviewed, the Immigration Selection Board will make the final decision on whether to approve the permit.
Applicants whose requests are approved will be required to pay a government fee of NAD 2,600.
The new permit is aimed at attracting foreign investors who can contribute to Namibia’s economy through business activity and investment.
Foreign nationals who do not meet the requirements for the new five-year permit will still have the option to apply under the existing Investor Permit.
The introduction of the longer permit provides foreign business owners with greater certainty when planning investments in Namibia.
It could also reduce the need for successful applicants to renew their immigration status as frequently as under the existing system.
The five-year validity period may be particularly attractive to investors planning longer-term business operations in the country.
The NIPDB’s role in evaluating proposed investments will also allow authorities to assess the potential economic benefits of each application.
The government is expected to use the new system to encourage investments that can contribute to economic activity and business development.
Foreign entrepreneurs considering Namibia will need to meet the relevant eligibility requirements before applying.
Applicants will also need to go through the required assessment and approval process involving the NIPDB and immigration authorities.
The new permit does not automatically apply to every foreign business owner or investor. Only qualifying applicants will be considered for the five-year option.
Those who are not eligible can continue using the existing immigration route available to foreign investors.
The new policy represents a significant change in Namibia’s approach to business-related immigration.
By offering a longer-term permit, Namibia is positioning itself as an option for foreign investors seeking greater stability while operating businesses in the country.
The new Employment Permit to Conduct Business will officially become available from September 1, 2026.
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