Swakopmund: The Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security (MHAISS) is undertaking a review of Namibia's three-decade-old immigration legislation. This initiative aims to modernize migration management, enhance border control and security, and support investment and travel.
According to Namibia Press Agency, MHAISS Director of Immigration and Border Control, Danelie /Naris, highlighted during a public consultation on the proposed Immigration Control Bill in Swakopmund that the current law, enacted in 1993, fails to adequately address the complexities of contemporary migration and international travel. The proposed bill seeks to introduce systems enabling travelers to submit information prior to their arrival in Namibia, thereby allowing authorities to process immigration matters in advance and improve border management.
'The migration environment has changed significantly over the years. Technology, international travel patterns, investment opportunities, and labor mobility have all evolved, requiring legislation that can accommodate these developments and remain relevant for years to come,' /Naris explained. She further noted that the proposed legislation would accommodate emerging categories of travelers, including investors, business visitors, and specialized workers, ensuring that Namibia's migration system remains efficient, secure, and supportive of economic growth.
Erongo Governor Natalia |Goagoses emphasized the importance of the consultation as a step towards developing a responsive and forward-looking migration framework that balances national interests with international obligations. She remarked that migration has become one of the most dynamic issues globally, driven by employment opportunities, business ventures, education, tourism, family reunification, and humanitarian considerations.
'The review of our migration legislation is both necessary and timely. As a country, we must ensure that our migration systems remain effective, humane, and aligned with changing global realities,' |Goagoses stated. She highlighted the strategic position of the Erongo Region in Namibia's economy, emphasizing its significance due to ports, mining sector, tourism industry, and international trade activities, which make effective migration management particularly crucial.
The public consultation forms part of the government's review of the Immigration Control Act of 1993, which regulates the entry, residence, and departure of foreign nationals in Namibia. The proposed Immigration Control Bill aims to establish a modern legal framework for managing migration into and out of Namibia while facilitating legitimate travel and investment, strengthening border security, and ensuring compliance with international migration standards.