Employment Permit – Namibia
Live and Work in Namibia Legally on a Long-Term Basis
An Employment Permit allows foreign nationals to live and work in Namibia for an extended period while being employed by a Namibian company or institution. This permit is suitable for professionals, skilled workers, executives, and specialists filling roles where local skills are unavailable.
At NAMVISA, we guide both employers and foreign employees through the complex Employment Permit process to ensure full compliance with Namibian immigration and labour regulations.
What Is an Employment Permit?
An Employment Permit is a long-term work authorization issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security. It allows a foreign national to:
✔ Reside legally in Namibia
✔ Work for a specific Namibian employer
✔ Hold a defined position for an approved period
Employment Permits are usually issued for 1 to 3 years and are renewable.
Who Needs an Employment Permit?
You must apply for an Employment Permit if you are a foreign national who intends to:
Take up long-term employment in Namibia
Work on a multi-year contract
Hold a permanent or senior position
Provide specialized skills not readily available locally
Common sectors include:
• Engineering & technical services
• Mining, oil & gas
• Health & education
• Construction & infrastructure
• ICT & professional services
• NGOs & international organizations
Key Requirements
From the Employee:
Valid passport (minimum 6 months before expiry)
Detailed CV and qualifications
Police clearance certificates
Medical examination report
Employment contract
Motivation letter
Passport-sized photos
From the Employer:
Company registration documents
Motivation letter justifying employment of a foreign national
Proof of unsuccessful local recruitment (where required)
Job description and contract details
Labour compliance documentation
NAMVISA assists with templates, compliance guidance, and document preparation.
Processing Time
Employment Permit applications are carefully reviewed and may take:
⏳ 2 to 6 months, depending on the complexity of the case and document completeness.
NAMVISA provides ongoing follow-ups and status updates throughout the process.
Validity & Renewal
Issued for 1–3 years
Renewable before expiry
Tied to a specific employer and position
Change of employer or role requires a new application
How NAMVISA Assists You
✔ Eligibility assessment for employer and employee
✔ Full document checklist & preparation
✔ Drafting of motivation letters
✔ Compliance guidance with Labour & Immigration
✔ Submission to relevant authorities
✔ Follow-ups and progress tracking
✔ Renewal and family application support
Employment Permit applications are detailed and technical — accuracy is critical.
Why Choose NAMVISA?
Proven experience with Employment Permits
Strong understanding of Namibian labour & immigration law
Employer-focused compliance guidance
Transparent communication
Professional handling of complex cases
Start Your Employment Permit Application
Whether you are an employer hiring foreign talent or a professional relocating to Namibia, NAMVISA ensures your Employment Permit application is handled correctly, professionally, and efficiently.
Aspect
Short-Term Employment Permit
Long-Term Employment Permit
Purpose
Duration
Who It’s For
Employer Requirement
Labour Justification
Processing Time
Renewable
Path to Permanent Residence
Complexity
Long-term employment
1–3 years (renewable)
Permanent staff, executives, skilled professionals
Mandatory
Required
2–6 months
Yes
Yes
High
Temporary / project-based work
3 months or 6 months
Consultants, technicians, trainers, project staff
Mandatory
Limited / simplified
10–15 working days
Limited / case-by-case
No
Moderate
Pricing
Change of Employer or Position
New application preparation and compliance guidance.
From N$18,000
NAMVISA service fees only. Government fees, medicals, police clearances and certifications are excluded.
Complex / Executive / Scarce Skills
High-level or labour-sensitive applications.
Custom Quote
Family Application (Spouse/Dependent)
Dependent permits linked to the Employment Permit.
From N$7,500pp
Employment Permit — New Application
From N$23,000
Long-term work authorization for foreign professionals.
Employment Permit — Renewal
Renewal preparation, updated documents and resubmission.