Lesotho has approved a visa exemption for all citizens of the European Union. This decision, announced during the annual Lesotho-EU Partnership Dialogue, is expected to come into effect in the near future.
Landlocked within South Africa, Lesotho aims to become a more accessible destination—particularly for European visitors—by simplifying its entry requirements.
During the annual Lesotho-EU Partnership Dialogue held on May 14 in Maseru, the capital of Lesotho, Prime Minister Sam Matekane officially announced that his Cabinet had approved visa-free entry for citizens of EU member states.
This move is intended to strengthen bilateral ties and promote investment, tourism, and cultural exchange between Lesotho and the European Union.
“In order to take all these matters forward and to enhance our partnership further, Lesotho Cabinet has approved a visa-free request for European countries,” said the Prime Minister, emphasizing his government’s commitment to enhancing international cooperation.
Lesotho’s visa policy already favors many Europeans
In his remarks, Sam Matekane noted that details about how the visa exemption will be implemented will be released soon, adding that the process is nearing completion.
“The implementation details shall follow. And I can also assure you that they are very close to finality. Much has been done already and we are almost there,” the Prime Minister stated.
Currently, citizens of several European countries are already allowed to visit Lesotho without a visa for stays of up to 14 days. These countries include:
- Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, and the United States.
Lesotho’s e-Visa system remains suspended
Lesotho launched its electronic visa (e-Visa) system on May 1, 2017, to streamline entry procedures for international travelers.
This system allowed nationals from over 160 countries to apply online for tourist, business, study, or diplomatic visas. E-visas were typically issued within 72 hours, with options for single-entry (valid for 44 days) or multiple-entry (valid for 180 days) stays.
However, in April 2024, the Ministry of Home Affairs temporarily suspended the e-Visa portal due to security concerns. Since then, travelers must apply for a visa through a Lesotho diplomatic mission or send their completed application form and required documents to the Immigration Department at visa-applications.immigrations@gov.ls at least five business days before their planned arrival in Lesotho.
