Employment regulations in foreign countries can be complex, and Botswana is no exception. Whether hiring international talent or seeking to work in Botswana as a foreign national, it’s critical to understand the country’s work authorization process. This guide breaks down the steps to secure legal work authorization in Botswana, including the types of permits available, application procedures, costs involved, and what life is like for foreign workers in the country.
Understanding work authorization requirements
Foreign nationals need a valid work permit to be legally employed in Botswana. These permits are overseen by the Department of Immigration and Citizenship under the Ministry of Labor and Home Affairs. Botswana maintains a structured system designed to prioritize local labor while accommodating foreign talent for roles where local expertise is scarce.
Before applying, foreign professionals must first secure a job offer from a Botswana-based employer. The employer must then demonstrate that no qualified local candidate is available for the role. This labor market test is a fundamental part of the process.
Types of work visas available
Botswana offers several types of work authorization, depending on the nature and duration of employment:
- Temporary Work Permit. Issued for short-term assignments, typically up to six months.
- Employment Permit. Designed for long-term employment and valid for up to two years, with possible renewals.
- Exemption Certificate. Granted to individuals whose roles are deemed critical to national interests or development projects.
Each permit has specific eligibility and documentation requirements, and applicants must apply for the appropriate type based on their employment arrangement.
Eligibility criteria for foreign workers
To qualify for a Botswana work permit, foreign nationals must:
- Have a valid job offer from a Botswana-registered company
- Possess skills or qualifications not readily available in the local workforce
- Provide a clean criminal record and medical certificate
Employers must also submit proof of recruitment efforts within Botswana to show that they attempted to fill the position locally before hiring a foreign candidate.
Necessary documentation for visa application
Applicants and employers must compile a comprehensive application package, including:
- Completed application form
- Valid passport
- Curriculum vitae
- Certified copies of educational and professional certificates
- Employment contract
- Proof of job advertisement in local media
- Medical examination report
- Police clearance certificate
Submitting the application
The employer submits the application to the Ministry of Nationality, Immigration and Gender affairs where the Department of Immigration and Citizenship will evaluate the application, including labor market test results. If approved, the applicant receives the work permit, which must be endorsed in the passport.
Expected timeline for approval
Processing typically takes 30 to 60 days, though timelines may vary depending on the completeness of the application and workload of the immigration office. Expedited processing is not standard practice.
Fees for work permits and visas
Work permit application fees vary based on the type and duration of the permit. As of 2025, employment permit fees range from US$110 to $220, depending on the length of the stay and job classification.
Additional costs for employers and employees
Employers may also incur expenses related to:
- Advertising positions locally
- Legal or immigration consultant services
- Relocation assistance for foreign employees
Foreign workers should plan for costs related to medical tests, police clearances, and document certification.
Living and working in Botswana
Botswana’s economy is driven by mining, tourism, financial services, and agriculture. There is a strong demand for skilled professionals in engineering, healthcare, IT, and education. However, the government encourages hiring locals first, so foreign professionals often fill highly specialized roles.
According to Trading Economics, Botswana’s unemployment rate remains high, around 25.3% in early 2025, reinforcing the importance of the labor market test for foreign hires.
Quality of life and cultural adaptation
Botswana is known for its political stability, safety, and relatively high quality of life compared to many regional neighbors. English is widely spoken in professional settings, easing adaptation for foreign nationals. However, understanding local customs, work etiquette, and Setswana phrases can go a long way in building relationships.
Legal rights and obligations for foreign workers
Foreign employees are protected under Botswana’s labor laws, which cover fair wages, working hours, and occupational safety. However, work permits are employer-specific; this means changing employers requires submitting a new application.
More information can be found through the Ministry of Employment, Labor Productivity and Skills Development.
Permanent residency in Botswana
Foreign nationals who have legally resided and worked in Botswana for several years may qualify to apply for permanent residence. Generally, applicants must demonstrate long-term contribution to the economy or community, continuous legal residency, and integration into society.
Requirements and procedures
- Proof of continuous residence (typically 5–10 years)
- Tax compliance certificates
- Letters of recommendation or community involvement
- Evidence of financial self-sufficiency
Benefits of permanent residency
Permanent residents enjoy greater freedom in employment, no longer requiring a separate work permit. They may also access public services and own property without restrictions. However, permanent residents are not entitled to vote or run for public office.
Emergency work permit options
Botswana may issue emergency permits for critical roles needed on short notice, such as medical professionals or technical specialists for infrastructure projects. These are issued on a case-by-case basis and often involve direct communication with immigration authorities.
Registering a company as a foreigner
Foreign nationals can establish businesses in Botswana through the Botswana Investment and Trade Centre (BITC). Foreign-owned companies must meet minimum capital requirements and demonstrate the economic benefit of their operations to the local economy.
How Velocity Global can help
Securing legal work authorization in Botswana can be challenging—especially for organizations unfamiliar with the country’s labor and immigration regulations. Velocity Global simplifies this process with our global Employer of Record (EOR) solution.
Velocity Global acts as the legal employer on behalf of companies, managing everything from onboarding and payroll to compliance and ongoing HR support. With expertise in more than 185 countries, we enable businesses to hire in Botswana without establishing a local entity—making it easier to access talent while staying compliant.
Learn more about how Velocity Global helps streamline international hiring, reduce risk, and accelerate global expansion.
This information does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal or tax advice and is for general informational purposes only. The intent of this document is solely to provide general and preliminary information for private use. Do not rely on it as an alternative to legal, financial, taxation, or accountancy advice from an appropriately qualified professional. The content in this guide is provided “as is,” and no representations are made that the content is error-free.
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Topic:
Immigration + Relocation
