Overview
The Lesotho Ministry of Home Affairs has announced a temporary suspension of its eVisa portal due to security concerns. This suspension affects travelers who are nationals of countries eligible for an eVisa, necessitating them to revert to alternative methods for obtaining travel permissions to enter Lesotho. The abrupt change comes without a specified timeline for when the services will resume, prompting travelers to adapt quickly to the new procedures outlined by the government.
Details of the Temporary Visa Application Process
In light of the eVisa portal suspension, affected travelers must now choose between two alternatives to secure a visa. They can apply manually by visiting the Department of Immigration or submit their application via email. Those opting for email submissions must send their completed forms along with the necessary supporting documents to the designated government email address (visa-applications.immigration@gov.ls) at least five business days before their planned travel.
Upon receiving approval, the Department of Immigration will issue a confirmation letter via email, which remains valid for 72 hours. During this period, travelers are required to appear in person at the Department of Immigration either at Moshoeshoe I International Airport or Maseru Bridge to pay for and receive their visa-on-arrival. This procedure finalizes with the endorsement of the traveler’s passport.
Implications for Travelers
The sudden suspension of the eVisa portal means that travelers need to account for additional time and potential delays in their travel planning. The manual process may introduce complexities not present in the digital application system, such as longer processing times and the need for in-person interactions. Travelers must be particularly cautious about the 72-hour window for completing their visa upon arrival, which adds a time-sensitive task to their itinerary.
Pros:
The temporary suspension of Lesotho’s eVisa portal poses significant challenges for travelers who must now navigate a more cumbersome visa application process. While the Ministry of Home Affairs has provided alternative procedures, the lack of clarity on when the eVisa system will be reinstated adds an additional layer of uncertainty. Travelers are advised to plan accordingly and allow extra time for visa processing to ensure a smooth entry into Lesotho.
The Lesotho Ministry of Home Affairs has announced a temporary suspension of its eVisa portal due to security concerns. This suspension affects travelers who are nationals of countries eligible for an eVisa, necessitating them to revert to alternative methods for obtaining travel permissions to enter Lesotho. The abrupt change comes without a specified timeline for when the services will resume, prompting travelers to adapt quickly to the new procedures outlined by the government.
Details of the Temporary Visa Application Process
In light of the eVisa portal suspension, affected travelers must now choose between two alternatives to secure a visa. They can apply manually by visiting the Department of Immigration or submit their application via email. Those opting for email submissions must send their completed forms along with the necessary supporting documents to the designated government email address (visa-applications.immigration@gov.ls) at least five business days before their planned travel.
Upon receiving approval, the Department of Immigration will issue a confirmation letter via email, which remains valid for 72 hours. During this period, travelers are required to appear in person at the Department of Immigration either at Moshoeshoe I International Airport or Maseru Bridge to pay for and receive their visa-on-arrival. This procedure finalizes with the endorsement of the traveler’s passport.
Implications for Travelers
The sudden suspension of the eVisa portal means that travelers need to account for additional time and potential delays in their travel planning. The manual process may introduce complexities not present in the digital application system, such as longer processing times and the need for in-person interactions. Travelers must be particularly cautious about the 72-hour window for completing their visa upon arrival, which adds a time-sensitive task to their itinerary.
Pros:
- The email application option offers a compromise between entirely manual processing and the suspended eVisa system, providing some level of convenience.
- Direct communication with the Department of Immigration may lead to clearer guidance and personalized assistance for travelers navigating the new process.
- The suspension of the eVisa portal disrupts travel plans and adds uncertainty about the duration of the suspension.
- The necessity for in-person appearances to finalize visa processing may deter travelers due to the extra time and logistical arrangements required.
- Potential for increased processing times and delays could impact travel schedules and planning.
The temporary suspension of Lesotho’s eVisa portal poses significant challenges for travelers who must now navigate a more cumbersome visa application process. While the Ministry of Home Affairs has provided alternative procedures, the lack of clarity on when the eVisa system will be reinstated adds an additional layer of uncertainty. Travelers are advised to plan accordingly and allow extra time for visa processing to ensure a smooth entry into Lesotho.
How are we supposed to apply for visas now? Does anyone know the new process?
I was planning a trip next month. Does anyone know how long this suspension will last? 
At least we have an alternative process in place. It could be worse! 