The Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB) has launched its Namibia Digital Nomad Visa programme, which will be applicable for six months.
The new visa, which will be available to freelancers or people working remotely for companies outside Namibia, makes it easier for foreign nationals to live and work in the country.
It would stimulate economic growth by attracting talented individuals who could inject foreign currency into the country, said Chief Executive of the NIPDB, Nangula Uaandja.
“We have identified that there is an opportunity to attract and gain economic benefit from people who want to work, live and travel in Namibia, without absorbing Namibian jobs,” she said.
Uaandja said applicants wanting to take advantage of the Namibia Digital Nomad Visa would have to prove that they earned enough money to be self-sufficient.
They will need to demonstrate proof of income/funds (payslip/employment contract) to sustain themselves and dependants. Applicants will also need valid travel documents, health or travel insurance covering risks while in Namibia. About US$62 (R1 100) will be required upon arrival as payment for the visa.
A WildWifi blog, titled, ‘Coliving Namibia - 9 Reasons to join us as a Digital Nomad in Africa’ highlights the fact that Namibia is a safe destination, that it has fast and reliable Internet and direct flights from Europe as some of several reasons it appeals to digital nomads.
Key stats
According to the digital nomad travel site, Two Tickets Anywhere, there are an estimated 35 million digital nomads worldwide.
Digital nomads contribute a global economic value of $787billion (R14,4trn) per year.
The average age of a digital nomad is 32 and most start their nomad journey at the age of 29.
The US accounts for more than 51% of digital nomads worldwide. Other key source markets for digital nomads include the UK, Canada, Germany and Russia.
46% of digital nomads are self-employed and 35% are employed by a company.
