Botswana · Skilled Worker Visa

Emergency Work Permit

By António Mira, Founder · Member, Arab-Portuguese Chamber of Commerce & Industry (CCIAP) & Portuguese-Saudi Business Council (PSBC)
✓ Verified against the official government source · Last verified 2026-06-24 · Our methodology
5.5/10 diff
Challenging

Short-duration work authorisation issued under Immigration Act Cap. 25:02 §22 framework + regulations. Two tiers: up to …

Min income
Processing
14+ days
Path to PR
No
Job offer
Required
Direct answer

Short-duration work authorisation issued under Immigration Act Cap. 25:02 §22 framework + regulations. Two tiers: up to seven (7) days = no cost; up to three (3) months = BWP 1,000.00. Used for short-term assignments, secondments, project work where full work-permit processing (30 working days) is impractical.

At a Glance

Visa Duration
3 months
Processing Time
14+ days
Min Income
Path to PR
No
Difficulty
5/10 — Challenging

Eligibility Requirements

RequirementDetails
Age Range18–65
Job Offer RequiredYes
Sponsorship RequiredYes
Health Insurance RequiredNo

Family & Rights

RightDetails
Family AllowedNo
Path to Permanent ResidencyNo

Related Pathways

Cost of Living

Gaborone
Single (monthly)€960
Family (monthly)€2,100
Rent 1BR (center)€350
Groceries€200
Transport pass€35

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Emergency Work Permit?

Short-duration work authorisation issued under Immigration Act Cap. 25:02 §22 framework + regulations. Two tiers: up to seven (7) days = no cost; up to three (3) months = BWP 1,000.00. Used for short-term assignments, secondments, project work where full work-permit processing (30 working days) is impractical.

Can I bring my family on the Emergency Work Permit?

Family accompaniment may be limited on this pathway. Check current regulations for the latest family reunification rules.

Can the Emergency Work Permit lead to permanent residency?

No — this is a temporary pathway and does not itself lead to permanent residence. Holders often switch to a different route to pursue settlement.

Are there alternative pathways to Botswana?

Yes. Botswana offers 4 other immigration pathways. Compare all options on our Botswana country page.

What is the cost of living in Botswana?

Monthly costs for a single person in city center: Gaborone: €960/mo. These include rent, groceries, transport, and utilities.

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Official source

Requirements on this page are based on this official/primary source:

Data last verified: 2026-06-24 · See our methodology

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