Lesotho Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Lesotho, the 'Kingdom in the Sky,' is a landlocked country completely surrounded by South Africa. Entry requirements for Lesotho are relatively straightforward for most visitors, with many nationalities enjoying visa-free access for tourism purposes. The country has several border crossings with South Africa, and travelers can enter by road or through Moshoeshoe I International Airport near Maseru, the capital city. The immigration process in Lesotho is generally efficient, though border posts can experience delays during peak travel times. All visitors must hold a passport valid for at least six months beyond their intended stay. While Lesotho maintains a liberal visa policy for many countries, it's essential to understand the specific requirements based on your nationality and purpose of visit. The country uses both the Lesotho Loti (LSL) and South African Rand (ZAR) as legal tender, which is unique given its economic relationship with South Africa. Travelers should be aware that Lesotho's high altitude (the entire country sits above 1,000 meters) and mountainous terrain make it distinct from typical African destinations. Immigration officials may inquire about your travel plans, accommodation arrangements, and proof of sufficient funds. It's advisable to have return or onward tickets and evidence of accommodation bookings readily available when entering the country.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Lesotho operates a visa-free policy for many nationalities for stays of up to 14 days for tourism purposes. Citizens of certain countries may stay longer without a visa, while others require prior authorization. Visa extensions are possible through the Ministry of Home Affairs in Maseru.

Visa-Free Entry (14 days)

14 days from date of entry

Citizens of these countries can enter Lesotho without a visa for tourism and business purposes

Includes

United States United Kingdom Canada Australia New Zealand Most European Union countries (Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Belgium, etc.) Japan South Korea Switzerland Norway Israel Singapore Hong Kong SAR

Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from date of entry. Extensions beyond 14 days must be applied for at the Ministry of Home Affairs in Maseru before the initial 14 days expire. Proof of onward travel and sufficient funds may be required.

Visa-Free Entry (Extended Duration)

Up to 90 days

Citizens of neighboring and select countries with special arrangements

Includes

South Africa Botswana Eswatini (Swaziland) Namibia Zimbabwe Malawi

SADC (Southern African Development Community) nationals generally enjoy longer visa-free stays. South African citizens can enter with just a valid ID card rather than a passport in some cases.

Visa Required

Varies by visa type, typically 30-90 days for tourist visas

Nationals of countries not listed above must obtain a visa prior to travel

How to Apply: Apply at the nearest Lesotho embassy or high commission. In countries without Lesotho diplomatic representation, applications may be submitted through British embassies or consulates. Processing typically takes 5-10 working days. Required documents include completed application form, passport-sized photos, valid passport, proof of accommodation, return tickets, and proof of financial means.

Visa fees vary by nationality and visa type. Business visas require an invitation letter from a Lesotho-based company or organization. Transit visas are available for short stays when traveling through Lesotho.

Arrival Process

Entry into Lesotho is processed at official border crossings with South Africa or at Moshoeshoe I International Airport. The process is generally straightforward, but having all required documentation prepared will ensure a smooth entry experience.

Document Presentation

Present your passport and completed immigration/customs forms to the immigration officer. At land borders, you may need to walk between South African and Lesotho immigration posts.

Immigration Interview

Answer questions about your visit, including purpose of travel, duration of stay, and accommodation details. Officers may request supporting documentation.

Passport Stamping

Your passport will be stamped with an entry stamp indicating your permitted duration of stay. Verify the dates are correct before leaving the immigration desk.

Customs Declaration

Proceed to customs where you may need to declare goods exceeding duty-free allowances or restricted items. Your luggage may be inspected.

Exit Immigration Area

Once cleared by both immigration and customs, you're free to enter Lesotho. Keep your passport and entry documentation safe as you'll need them when departing.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay with at least 2 blank pages for stamps

Return or Onward Ticket

Proof of departure from Lesotho, either to your home country or onward destination

Proof of Accommodation

Hotel reservations, invitation letter from host, or address where you'll be staying

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Bank statements, credit cards, or cash to demonstrate ability to support yourself during your stay

Yellow Fever Certificate

Required if arriving from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic country

Visa (if required)

Pre-approved visa for nationalities that require one, properly affixed in passport

Tips for Smooth Entry

Arrive at border crossings early in the day when possible, as some smaller posts close in the evening and processing can be slower later in the day

Keep all travel documents, including hotel confirmations and return tickets, easily accessible in a travel folder

Have both South African Rand and Lesotho Loti available, as both currencies are accepted throughout Lesotho

Be patient at land border crossings, especially during South African public holidays when traffic can be heavy

Make copies of your passport and entry stamp in case of loss or theft during your stay

If entering by road, ensure your vehicle documentation is in order, including insurance valid for Lesotho

Dress modestly and be respectful when dealing with immigration officials to ensure a positive interaction

Customs & Duty-Free

Lesotho customs regulations are designed to prevent illegal importation of goods while allowing reasonable personal items for travelers. The country is part of the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) with South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, and Eswatini, which affects certain customs procedures.

Alcohol

1 liter of spirits and 2 liters of wine

Only for travelers 18 years and older. Alcohol must be for personal consumption.

Tobacco

200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250 grams of tobacco

Only for travelers 18 years and older. Must be for personal use.

Currency

No limit on amount brought in, but amounts over 25,000 LSL (or equivalent) must be declared

Both Lesotho Loti and South African Rand are legal tender. Declaration forms must be completed for large amounts.

Gifts/Goods

Personal effects and goods up to a value of 5,000 LSL

Items must be for personal use and not for commercial purposes. New items in original packaging may be questioned.

Perfume

50ml of perfume and 250ml of eau de toilette

For personal use only

Prohibited Items

Illegal drugs and narcotics - strictly prohibited with severe penalties including imprisonment
Unlicensed firearms and ammunition - requires special permits obtained in advance
Counterfeit goods - including fake designer items and pirated media
Endangered species products - items made from protected wildlife including ivory
Pornographic materials - prohibited under Lesotho law
Hazardous materials - explosives, flammable substances without proper documentation

Restricted Items

Prescription medications - must be accompanied by valid prescription and in original packaging; carry only amounts needed for your stay
Plants and plant products - require phytosanitary certificates to prevent introduction of pests and diseases
Fresh food items - including fruits, vegetables, meat, and dairy products may be restricted
Pets and animals - require import permits, health certificates, and rabies vaccination documentation
Firearms for hunting - require prior authorization from Lesotho police and valid hunting permits
Radio transmitting equipment - may require authorization from communications authority
Drones - may require permits; check with aviation authorities before bringing

Health Requirements

Lesotho has specific health requirements for entry, primarily focused on preventing the introduction of communicable diseases. The country's high altitude and climate also require health considerations beyond standard entry requirements.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever - Required if arriving from or having transited through a yellow fever endemic country within 6 days prior to arrival. A valid International Certificate of Vaccination is mandatory.

Recommended Vaccinations

Hepatitis A - Recommended for all travelers due to potential exposure through food and water
Typhoid - Recommended, especially if visiting rural areas or staying with local families
Hepatitis B - Recommended for travelers who may have intimate contact with locals or require medical treatment
Rabies - Recommended for adventure travelers, those working with animals, or visiting remote areas
Tetanus-Diphtheria - Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date
Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) - Ensure routine vaccinations are current
Influenza - Consider seasonal flu vaccination, especially for travel during winter months (May-August)

Health Insurance

Travel health insurance with medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended. Lesotho has limited medical facilities, and serious conditions may require evacuation to South Africa. Ensure your insurance covers high-altitude activities if you plan mountain trekking or skiing. Medical services often require upfront payment, so insurance should cover immediate expenses with reimbursement options.

Current Health Requirements: Always check current health entry requirements before travel, as these can change rapidly. COVID-19 testing, vaccination certificates, or quarantine requirements may be in effect. Consult your country's travel health advisory service and the Lesotho Ministry of Health website for the latest information. Consider altitude sickness prevention if you're not accustomed to high elevations - the entire country is above 1,000 meters, with many areas exceeding 2,000 meters.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Embassy/Consulate

Find your country's embassy or consulate in Lesotho or the nearest South African city

Many countries don't have representation in Lesotho and handle consular matters through their South African missions. Check your government's travel advisory website before departure.

Immigration Authority

Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration Department, Maseru

For visa extensions, immigration queries, and official information. Located in the capital city, Maseru. Office hours typically Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM.

Emergency Services

Emergency number: 112 (general emergency) or 123 (police)

Police: 123, Ambulance: 121, Fire: 122. Response times may be slower in rural and mountainous areas. Consider having contact information for private medical services.

Tourism Information

Lesotho Tourism Development Corporation

For general travel information, tourist attractions, and assistance with travel planning within Lesotho.

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children must have their own valid passport. If a child is traveling with only one parent or with someone other than their parents, a notarized letter of consent from the non-traveling parent(s) is strongly recommended, along with a copy of the child's birth certificate. This is particularly important when entering from South Africa, which has strict requirements for children crossing borders. Unabridged birth certificates showing both parents' details may be requested. Children under 18 traveling alone require additional documentation including contact details for guardians in Lesotho.

Traveling with Pets

Pets entering Lesotho require: a valid import permit obtained from the Department of Livestock Services before arrival, a veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of travel, proof of current rabies vaccination (administered at least 30 days but not more than 12 months before entry), and a microchip for identification. Dogs and cats must be treated for internal and external parasites. Pets from certain countries may require a quarantine period. Contact the Lesotho Department of Livestock Services well in advance of travel. Note that bringing pets into Lesotho can be complex; many travelers leave pets in South Africa during their visit.

Extended Stays

Tourist visas or visa-free stays can be extended by applying at the Ministry of Home Affairs Immigration Department in Maseru before your initial authorized stay expires. Bring your passport, proof of accommodation, evidence of sufficient funds, and a letter explaining your reason for extension. Extensions are granted at the discretion of immigration officials and typically allow an additional 30-60 days. For stays longer than 90 days, you may need to apply for a temporary residence permit. Employment in Lesotho requires a work permit obtained through your sponsoring employer before arrival. Student visas require acceptance letters from recognized educational institutions.

Overland Travel from South Africa

Most visitors enter Lesotho by road from South Africa. Ensure you complete exit procedures at the South African border post and entry procedures at the Lesotho post - these are separate facilities. If driving a rental car, confirm that your rental agreement permits travel to Lesotho, as some companies restrict cross-border travel. Vehicle insurance must cover Lesotho; obtain a temporary import permit if required. Major border posts include Maseru Bridge, Caledonspoort, Sani Pass (4WD only), and Qacha's Nek. Check border post operating hours as they vary.

Business Travelers

Business visitors should carry an invitation letter from the Lesotho company or organization they're visiting, along with a letter from their own employer explaining the purpose of the visit. While many nationalities can enter visa-free for business meetings and conferences, any paid work requires a work permit. Business visitors may be asked to show proof of business registration, meeting schedules, or conference registration. Keep all business documentation accessible during entry. For extended business stays or employment, consult with Lesotho immigration authorities about appropriate visa categories.