Effective October 14, Botswana nationals will now be required to obtain an entry visa to visit the United Kingdom. This significant policy change, announced in a press statement from the Ministry for International Relations, stems from concerns regarding the ongoing illegal and irregular migration of Batswana to the UK, alongside a notable increase in asylum applications from Batswana citizens since 2022.

In response to these issues, the UK government has revoked the 'visa free status' previously enjoyed by Botswana nationals. Consequently, any Batswana citizen planning to visit the UK will now need to apply for a visitor visa. Furthermore, the new regulations also stipulate that Batswana transiting through the UK will require a direct airside transit visa, with both requirements coming into effect on October 14.

To facilitate a smoother transition, a six-week grace period will be implemented, concluding on November 25. This period is specifically for Batswana who currently hold an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) and had already booked their travel to the UK prior to the introduction of the new visa requirement. This measure aims to accommodate those with existing travel plans.

The government of Botswana has affirmed its commitment to engaging the UK government through diplomatic channels to discuss this matter. The objective is to explore and establish durable solutions that are mutually beneficial for both countries and their citizens. In light of these changes, the statement urges all Batswana traveling to the UK or visiting other countries to continue to strictly adhere to the immigration laws and regulations of those respective nations. This announcement was made by BOPA.