Get Your Eswatini Visa Online
Fast visa processing for wildlife safaris, cultural festivals, and mountain adventures in the Kingdom of Eswatini
TrustpilotHow to Get Your Eswatini Visa
Simple 4-step process — most applications approved within 3-5 business days
1
Complete the online application
Fill out our streamlined application form with your personal details, travel plans, and purpose of visit to Eswatini. Our intelligent validation system guides you through each section, ensuring your application meets all requirements for entry into the Kingdom of Eswatini.
2
Upload your documents
Submit your passport scan (bio page clearly visible), a recent passport-sized photograph, and proof of accommodation in Eswatini. Our visa specialists review every document against immigration standards before submission, significantly reducing the risk of rejection or delays.
3
We process your visa
Your verified application is processed and submitted to Eswatini immigration authorities. We monitor processing status and proactively communicate any updates, requests for additional documentation, or status changes via email and SMS notifications.
4
Receive your visa electronically
Your approved Eswatini visa arrives as a PDF document. Print it clearly on A4 paper and present it at immigration along with your passport. Welcome to the Kingdom of Eswatini — a land of rich culture and natural beauty!
Eswatini Visa Requirements & Entry Information
Tourist Visa
Up to 30 days
For leisure, safaris, and cultural tourism
Business Visa
Up to 30 days
For commercial activities and meetings
Transit Visa
Up to 72 hours
For travelers passing through Eswatini
Visa Exemption
Up to 30-90 days
Citizens of select countries visa-free
Essential Requirements
- Passport valid 6+ months with 2 blank pages
- Passport photo 35x45mm, white background
- Hotel booking or accommodation confirmation
- Return flight or onward travel itinerary
- Proof of sufficient funds for your stay
- Yellow fever certificate if from endemic area
Tourist & Transit Visas
The Kingdom of Eswatini (formerly Swaziland) welcomes visitors from around the world to experience its unique blend of traditional African culture and stunning natural landscapes. As Africa's last absolute monarchy, Eswatini offers an authentic cultural experience unlike anywhere else on the continent.
Tourist Visa
The Eswatini tourist visa allows stays up to 30 days for leisure travel, safari excursions, attending cultural festivals like the famous Umhlanga Reed Dance and Incwala ceremony, visiting craft markets, and exploring the country's national parks. This visa is suitable for most visitors coming for holidays, photography tours, or to experience Swazi culture firsthand. Extensions may be possible at the Immigration Department in Mbabane.
Transit Visa
Travelers passing through Eswatini en route to South Africa or Mozambique can obtain a transit visa allowing stays up to 72 hours. This is ideal for those driving between South Africa and Mozambique or exploring Eswatini briefly during a larger Southern African journey. The country's compact size makes it possible to see many highlights even during a short transit stop.
Business Visas & Special Entry
Business Visa
The Eswatini business visa caters to professionals conducting commercial activities within the kingdom. This includes attending business meetings, trade fairs, and conferences; exploring investment opportunities in Eswatini's growing economy; establishing trade contacts with local businesses; and negotiating contracts. Business visas allow stays up to 30 days. Required documentation includes an invitation letter from an Eswatini company and a letter from your employer explaining the business purpose.
Visa Exemptions
Citizens of many countries enjoy visa-free access to Eswatini. Commonwealth member state citizens, most European Union nationals, and citizens of the United States, Canada, Australia, and several African countries can enter visa-free for tourism stays of 30-90 days depending on nationality. South African citizens, given the close relationship between the two countries, enjoy special entry privileges. Always verify current requirements for your specific nationality before travel.
Entry Requirements & Documentation
Essential Requirements
All Eswatini visa applicants must meet these fundamental requirements:
• Passport validity: Minimum 6 months beyond your intended arrival date with at least two blank pages for entry and exit stamps
• Yellow fever vaccination: Required if arriving from a yellow fever endemic country. The vaccination must be administered at least 10 days before arrival.
• Photograph: Recent passport-sized photo (35x45mm) with white background, taken within the last 6 months
• Accommodation proof: Hotel booking confirmation, lodge reservations, or invitation letter if staying with residents
• Travel itinerary: Flight bookings or evidence of land border crossing plans showing entry and exit from Eswatini
• Sufficient funds: Evidence of financial means to support your stay (bank statements or cash equivalent to approximately $100 per day)
Health Considerations
Eswatini is largely malaria-free in the highland regions including Mbabane and the Ezulwini Valley, though the lowveld areas near Hlane may have seasonal malaria risk. Consult a travel health specialist for current recommendations.
Entry Points & Processing
Entry Points & Immigration
Eswatini visas are valid at all official entry points including:
• Airport: King Mswati III International Airport (SHO) — the country's primary international airport near Manzini
• Major Land Borders with South Africa: Ngwenya/Oshoek (busiest crossing), Mahamba, Lavumisa, Matsamo, and several smaller crossings
• Mozambique Border: Lomahasha/Namaacha crossing connecting to Maputo
Most visitors enter via the Ngwenya border post from South Africa's Mpumalanga province, which is approximately 350km from Johannesburg.
Processing Times & Application Timing
Visa processing typically takes 3-7 business days, though times can vary based on application volume and completeness of documentation. During major festivals (Umhlanga in August/September and Incwala in December/January), processing may take longer due to increased visitor numbers. We recommend applying at least 2-3 weeks before your intended travel date to allow buffer time for any additional documentation requests or unexpected delays.
Why Choose DoVisa?
See the difference between applying yourself vs using our expert service
| Feature | Applying Yourself |  With DoVisa |
|---|---|---|
| Application reviewExpert review before submission | ✗No expert check | ✓100% reviewed by experts |
| Document validationCheck documents meet requirements | ✗Risk of rejection | ✓Pre-checked for errors |
| Customer supportHelp when you have questions | ✗Government offices only | ✓24/7 dedicated support |
| Form guidanceAssistance filling out forms | ✗Complex forms alone | ✓Step-by-step guidance |
| Status trackingKnow where your application is | ✗Manual checking | ✓Real-time updates |
| Refund if deniedProtection if visa is rejected | ✗No refund possible | ✓Money-back guarantee |
1,000+Visas processed
24/7Expert support
4.6Customer rating
97%Approval rate
"Fantastic service for my Eswatini visa. I visited for the Umhlanga Reed Dance and the whole process was seamless. Highly recommend DoVisa!"
"Got my visa quickly and visited Hlane Royal National Park. The rhino sightings were incredible! Thanks DoVisa for making entry so easy."
"Good service overall. Applied for a business visa and received it within a week. The support team was helpful with document requirements."
"We combined our Eswatini visit with South Africa. DoVisa helped us understand entry requirements for both countries. Amazing craft markets!"
"Visited Eswatini for the first time and loved it. The visa process through DoVisa was straightforward and customer support was excellent."
"Helpful service when I needed clarification on transit visa requirements. Ended up staying 2 days and exploring Ezulwini Valley."
"Quick processing and great communication throughout. Malolotja hiking was the highlight of my Southern Africa trip!"
"Family trip to Eswatini was amazing. DoVisa processed all four of our visas together. The cultural experiences were unforgettable."
"Reliable visa service. Border crossing at Ngwenya was smooth with printed visa. Would use DoVisa again for future African travels."
"Excellent experience from start to finish. The Swazi craft markets were worth every bit of the journey. Thank you DoVisa!"
Eswatini Visa FAQs
What types of visas are available for Eswatini?
Eswatini offers several visa categories to accommodate different travel purposes. Tourist visa allows stays up to 30 days for leisure travel, safari excursions, attending cultural festivals, and general tourism. Business visa permits commercial activities including meetings, conferences, trade exploration, and contract negotiations for up to 30 days. Transit visa allows stays up to 72 hours for travelers passing through Eswatini to other destinations. Student visa is available for those enrolled in Eswatini educational institutions. Many nationalities qualify for visa-free entry for stays of 30-90 days depending on their country of citizenship.
Do I need a visa to visit Eswatini?
Visa requirements for Eswatini depend on your nationality. Visa-free access is granted to citizens of Commonwealth countries, most European Union member states, United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and many African nations for stays of 30-90 days. South African citizens enjoy special entry privileges due to the close relationship between the two countries. Visa required: Citizens of certain countries must obtain a visa before arrival. These include some Asian, Middle Eastern, and African nationalities not covered by exemption agreements. Always verify current requirements for your specific nationality before travel, as regulations can change.
How long can I stay in Eswatini with a tourist visa?
The standard Eswatini tourist visa permits stays of up to 30 days. Visa-free visitors may be granted 30-90 days depending on their nationality and the immigration officer's discretion at entry. Extensions: If you wish to stay longer, you can apply for an extension at the Immigration Department headquarters in Mbabane. Extensions are granted at the discretion of immigration authorities and require valid reasons for extended stay, proof of sufficient funds, and continued accommodation arrangements. Maximum stay: Total stay including extensions typically should not exceed 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism purposes.
What documents do I need for an Eswatini visa application?
Essential documents: Valid passport with minimum 6 months validity beyond arrival date and at least 2 blank pages; recent passport-sized photograph (35x45mm, white background); completed visa application form. Supporting documents: Proof of accommodation in Eswatini (hotel booking, lodge reservation, or invitation letter from host); flight itinerary or evidence of travel plans showing entry and exit; proof of sufficient funds (bank statements, approximately $100 per day); travel insurance recommended. Business visa additional requirements: Invitation letter from Eswatini company; letter from employer stating purpose of business trip; company registration documents. Yellow fever certificate: Required if arriving from an endemic country.
How long does Eswatini visa processing take?
Standard Eswatini visa processing takes 3-7 business days, though most applications receive decisions within 5 days. Processing times can vary based on: Application volume — during major festivals like Umhlanga (August/September) and Incwala (December/January), processing may take longer. Document completeness — applications with all required documents in proper format process faster. Nationality — some nationalities may require additional security screening. Recommendations: Apply at least 2-3 weeks before travel to allow buffer time; ensure all documents are clear and complete; respond promptly to any requests for additional information.
Can I extend my Eswatini visa while in the country?
Yes, visa extensions are possible in Eswatini. Where to apply: Immigration Department headquarters in Mbabane, the administrative capital. Requirements: Valid passport with remaining blank pages; completed extension application form; proof of sufficient funds for extended stay; valid accommodation booking for extension period; explanation letter stating reason for extension; applicable extension fees. Process: Apply before your current visa expires — overstaying is a serious offense that can result in fines and future entry restrictions. Approval: Extensions are granted at immigration's discretion based on your circumstances and are not guaranteed. Alternative: If denied an extension, you can exit to South Africa and re-enter, though repeated entries may be questioned by immigration officers.
Can I work in Eswatini with a tourist visa?
No, Eswatini tourist visas do not permit employment of any kind. Tourist visas are strictly for leisure activities including sightseeing, attending cultural events, visiting friends and family, and general tourism. For employment: You must obtain a work permit, which requires sponsorship from an Eswatini employer, proof that the position cannot be filled locally, and approval from the Ministry of Labour. The process involves multiple government departments and typically takes several months. Business visas: Allow commercial activities like meetings and negotiations but not paid employment or receiving salary from an Eswatini entity. Volunteer work: Organized volunteer programs may have special arrangements, but unauthorized volunteer work could violate immigration regulations.
What are the main entry points into Eswatini?
Eswatini can be entered through several official points. By Air: King Mswati III International Airport (SHO) near Manzini is the primary international airport with connections to South Africa and regional destinations. Land Borders with South Africa: Ngwenya/Oshoek (the busiest and most popular crossing, approximately 350km from Johannesburg); Mahamba; Lavumisa; Matsamo; and several smaller crossings. Mozambique Border: Lomahasha/Namaacha connects to Maputo and is useful for travelers combining Eswatini with Mozambique. Practical advice: Most international visitors enter via the Ngwenya border from South Africa. Border posts typically operate from 7am to 10pm, though hours may vary. Allow time for immigration formalities, especially during peak travel periods.
Do children need their own visa for Eswatini?
Yes, every traveler including children and infants requires their own travel documentation and visa (if applicable). Children cannot travel on a parent's passport or visa. Requirements for children: Valid passport in the child's own name with 6+ months validity; passport-sized photograph; if visa required, a separate visa application. Additional documentation: If traveling with only one parent: written consent from the absent parent or custody documentation. If traveling without parents: written consent from both parents, copies of parents' passports, and details of the responsible adult in Eswatini. South Africa transit: If transiting through South Africa, be aware of their strict requirements for children's travel documents including unabridged birth certificates.
Is Eswatini safe for tourists?
Eswatini is generally considered safe for tourists and maintains a stable environment as Africa's last absolute monarchy. Safe areas: The main tourist areas including Ezulwini Valley, Mbabane, Manzini, Hlane Royal National Park, Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, and Malolotja Nature Reserve are well-patrolled and welcoming to visitors. General precautions: Exercise normal safety awareness as in any destination; avoid walking alone at night in urban areas; keep valuables secure; use registered tour operators for activities. Health considerations: Highland areas are largely malaria-free; lowveld regions near Hlane may have seasonal risk. HIV prevalence is high — take standard precautions. Road safety: Drive on the left; roads are generally good but watch for animals and potholes in rural areas.
When is the best time to visit Eswatini?
Eswatini offers year-round appeal with distinct seasonal highlights. May-September (Dry Winter): Best for wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources; cooler temperatures (5-20C); clear skies ideal for photography; minimal rainfall. Perfect for Hlane Royal National Park safaris. August-September: The famous Umhlanga Reed Dance ceremony — one of Africa's largest cultural events where thousands of young women dance for the Queen Mother. December-January: The sacred Incwala ceremony celebrating kingship and harvest — less tourist-accessible but culturally significant. October-April (Wet Summer): Warmer temperatures (15-30C); afternoon thunderstorms; lush green landscapes; bird watching excellent; lower accommodation rates. Year-round: Craft markets, cultural villages, and nature reserves are accessible throughout the year.
What happens if my Eswatini visa application is rejected?
Eswatini visa rejections are uncommon but can occur. Common rejection reasons: Incomplete documentation; passport validity issues; photos not meeting specifications; insufficient proof of funds; unclear travel purpose; previous immigration violations. If rejected: You will receive notification of the decision. Eswatini immigration typically does not provide detailed rejection reasons. You can reapply with improved documentation addressing potential issues. There is no formal appeals process, but fresh applications are considered independently. Prevention: Ensure all documents are complete, clear, and meet specifications; provide comprehensive travel plans with accommodation proof; include sufficient financial evidence. DoVisa guarantee: If rejection results from our processing error, we provide a full refund of service fees and complimentary reapplication assistance.
What currency should I bring to Eswatini?
Eswatini's official currency is the Swazi Lilangeni (SZL), which is pegged 1:1 with the South African Rand (ZAR). South African Rand is accepted everywhere in Eswatini and is interchangeable with the Lilangeni — this makes travel convenient if combining Eswatini with South Africa. US Dollars and Euros: Accepted at major hotels and tourist establishments but not universally; you'll get better rates exchanging to local currency. ATMs: Available in Mbabane, Manzini, and the Ezulwini Valley; international cards generally work but notify your bank of travel plans. Card payments: Major credit cards accepted at hotels, larger restaurants, and tourist shops; smaller craft markets typically prefer cash. Recommendation: Carry South African Rand for convenience, especially if entering from South Africa.
Can I visit other countries with my Eswatini visa?
An Eswatini visa is only valid for Eswatini — it cannot be used to enter other countries. Neighboring countries: South Africa and Mozambique have their own visa requirements. Many Eswatini visitors combine their trip with South Africa; check South African visa requirements separately. Mozambique borders Eswatini to the east and has its own visa system. Multi-country planning: If planning a Southern African itinerary including Eswatini, South Africa, Mozambique, or other countries, apply for each country's visa separately based on your nationality's requirements. SADC arrangements: As a Southern African Development Community member, Eswatini participates in regional mobility discussions, but there is currently no regional tourist visa covering multiple Southern African countries.
Do I need to print my Eswatini visa?
If you receive an electronic visa approval, yes, you should print it. Printing requirements: Print clearly on A4 paper in color if possible; ensure all text and any barcodes/QR codes are legible; carry the printout with you throughout your journey. At immigration: Present your printed visa along with your passport at the entry point. Immigration officers will verify the visa and stamp your passport. Digital backup: Keep a digital copy on your phone as backup, but the physical printout is the official document. Multiple copies: Consider carrying extra copies in case one is retained or damaged. Visa-free travelers: If you're from a visa-exempt country, you only need your valid passport — no visa printout is necessary.
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