Government is exploring ways to improve and accelerate visa processing procedures for cruise ship passengers arriving in Namibia as part of efforts to strengthen the country’s growing cruise tourism sector.
This was highlighted during a visit to Walvis Bay by Deputy Minister of Environment, Forestry and Tourism, Hon. Anselm Marungu, who led a delegation assessing visa processing procedures for passengers arriving aboard the cruise vessel Mein Schiff 6.
Speaking during the visit, Marungu stressed that solutions can always be found to streamline entry procedures for tourists arriving on cruise liners. The assessment forms part of ongoing collaboration between the Namibia Tourism Board (NTB), the Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security (MHAISS), and other stakeholders aimed at facilitating seamless travel experiences for international visitors while maintaining compliance with Namibia’s immigration requirements.
With approximately 2 500 passengers on board, the arrival of Mein Schiff 6 underscored both the opportunities and challenges associated with Namibia’s expanding cruise tourism industry. The delegation conducted inspections at the Port of Walvis Bay to evaluate current visa processing systems and identify potential bottlenecks that could affect the efficient movement of visitors entering the country through cruise tourism. Executive Director of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security, Daniel Nghidinua, said the processing of passengers proceeded smoothly despite some challenges experienced with the online visa platform and connectivity issues.
According to Nghidinua, the majority of passengers had secured their visas before travelling, while immigration officials assisted those requiring visas on arrival. He noted that stronger collaboration among stakeholders, coupled with improvements to existing systems, would help ensure an even smoother process for future cruise vessel arrivals. Also commenting on the visit, Timo Kaden, Senior Shore Operations Manager for TUI Cruises, emphasised the importance of efficient visa procedures in ensuring a positive guest experience. “We’re excited and looking for-ward. It’s my first time in Namibia, but I like the culture and the friendly people,” said Kaden. He added that cruise passengers often become repeat visitors, returning to destinations they enjoyed during their voyage, either by air or on future cruises. As part of the programme, the delegation also visited Sandwich Harbour to gain first-hand insight into one of Namibia’s premier tourism attractions. Marungu described the experience as “wow”, highlighting the unique appeal of Namibia’s coastal tourism offerings. The assessment comes as Namibia continues positioning itself as a preferred cruise tourism destination in Southern Africa, with authorities seeking to balance efficient visitor processing with secure and effective immigration management.
By Rudi Bowe
