
Eswatini Visa
Do you need a visa to visit Eswatini? Find your nearest Eswatini Embassy.
Visit Embassy WebsiteAn Eswatini visa is an official authorisation issued by Eswatini’s Department of Immigration that allows foreign nationals to enter, stay in, or transit through Eswatini for a specific period and purpose—such as tourism, business, work, study, or family visits. Depending on your nationality, you may be eligible for visa-free entry, a visa on arrival, or you may need to apply in advance. This guide explains Eswatini’s 2025 visa policy, including who needs a visa, entry requirements, application procedures, and advice for a smooth travel experience.
Who Needs a Visa to Visit Eswatini?
Most visitors do not require a visa for short stays in Eswatini. Citizens of the United States, United Kingdom, European Union member states, Canada, Australia, Japan, and over 90 other countries can enter Eswatini visa-free for up to 30 or 60 days, depending on nationality.
Visa-Free Entry:
- Nationals of visa-exempt countries do not need a visa for short visits (tourism, business, or transit).
Entry is granted at the border with a passport stamp indicating the permitted duration of stay.
Visa Required:
- Nationals from countries not listed as visa-exempt must apply for a visa before traveling.
This includes many countries in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East (e.g., Nigeria, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, and others).
For more information on visas to Eswatini, you can visit their Embassy page.
Visit Embassy WebsiteEntry into Eswatini
Health and Entry Regulations:
Travellers arriving from yellow fever risk areas must present an official yellow fever vaccination certificate.
Eligibility to apply for a Eswatini visa
Applicants must submit the following:
Completed visa application form
Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity, at least two blank pages)
Passport-size photographs (typically 2 required)
Proof of accommodation (hotel reservation or host invitation)
Return or onward travel ticket
Proof of sufficient funds (e.g., recent bank statement)
Yellow fever certificate, if applicable
Processing time for Eswatini visas
- Standard processing time: 7–15 business days after submission of a complete application.
- Delays may occur due to incomplete applications, nationality, or high seasonal demand.
Appointment waiting times
- Visitor visa: Usually available within 1 to 3 weeks, depending on the embassy or consulate.
- Student and work visas: Appointment timelines vary, but typically faster than for general tourists.
Who Can Visit Eswatini Without a Visa?
Nationals of over 90 countries can visit Eswatini without a visa for tourism or business purposes. These include:
- United States
- United Kingdom
- Canada
- European Union states
- Australia
- New Zealand
- Japan
- South Africa
- Botswana
- Namibia
- Lesotho
Conditions:
- Visa-free entry allows a stay of 30 to 60 days, depending on nationality.
- A valid passport and confirmed return ticket are required.
Extensions may be possible through the Department of Immigration in Mbabane.
For detailed information on specific parts of the general visa process, you can refer to the links below to find the answer to your query. If you are unable to find any particular information, please contact us via email.
Eswatini visa types
- Tourist Visa
For leisure travel, sightseeing, or visiting friends/family. Typically valid for up to 30 or 60 days. - Business Visa
For attending meetings, trade events, or business negotiations. - Work/Employment Visa
For foreign nationals employed in Eswatini. Requires a valid job offer and additional documentation. - Student Visa
For full-time students enrolled in recognised academic institutions. - Transit Visa
For travellers passing through Eswatini en route to another destination. - Temporary Residence Permit
For long-term stay, retirement, or family reunification. Issued through the Ministry of Home Affairs.
What to Do if Your Eswatini Visa Is Rejected
If your visa application is denied:
- The embassy will issue a standard notice outlining reasons for refusal.
- You may:
- Submit a corrected application with additional documentation
- Apply for a different visa category, if appropriate
File an appeal with the relevant embassy or consulate