Best Golden Visa Lawyers in Oshakati

About Golden Visa Law in Oshakati, Namibia

The phrase Golden Visa is often used internationally to describe residence-by-investment programs. Namibia does not operate a branded international Golden Visa program like some countries do. Instead, foreign nationals who wish to live in Namibia - including Oshakati, in the Oshana region - can seek residence through existing immigration and investment routes. Those routes include temporary residence permits for employment or business, residence for foreign investors or entrepreneurs who establish and operate businesses in Namibia, and, in limited cases, long-term or permanent residence where statutory criteria are met.

Applications and authorisations are handled under Namibia's immigration framework, managed by the national immigration authorities. Local offices and regional authorities can help with practical and administrative matters in Oshakati, but most formal decisions are taken by the national Directorate of Immigration or the responsible ministry.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Getting lawful, long-term residence in Namibia on the basis of investment or business activity can involve multiple legal, regulatory and commercial steps. A lawyer who understands immigration, corporate, property and tax law can help in several common situations:

- Structuring the investment so it meets immigration requirements and local law

- Preparing and reviewing business plans, shareholder agreements and company registration documents

- Advising on property purchase or lease agreements and performing title or land-use due diligence

- Preparing and filing residence permit applications and responses to requests for additional information

- Handling work-permit aspects if you intend to hire staff or work in your business

- Ensuring tax compliance and advising on fiscal implications of residency and investment

- Representing you in administrative appeals or communications with immigration authorities if an application is refused or delayed

- Managing anti-money-laundering checks, proof-of-funds documentation and background clearance requirements

Local Laws Overview

Key legal areas and rules relevant to someone seeking residency or investing in Oshakati include:

- Immigration law and regulations - Residence and work permits are governed by the Immigration Control Act and accompanying regulations and administrative practices. These set out the types of permits available, eligibility criteria, documentation requirements and grounds for refusal.

- Company and business registration - Foreign investors generally must register legal entities to operate in Namibia. Company registration is handled through the Business and Intellectual Property Authority and related registries, and compliance with corporate filing obligations is required.

- Property and land law - Foreigners can generally buy freehold property in Namibia, but there are local zoning, planning and communal land issues to check. Title searches, due diligence at the Deeds Office and compliance with municipal regulations are important.

- Employment and labour law - If you intend to employ people, you must comply with Namibia's labour statutes, workplace regulations and social security obligations, and obtain any required work permits for foreign employees.

- Tax law - Becoming a resident or operating a business in Namibia creates tax obligations under the Income Tax Act and other fiscal legislation. Registration with the tax authority and ongoing compliance are essential.

- Anti-money-laundering and international compliance - Banks and authorities will require proof of funds, source-of-wealth documentation and client due diligence consistent with anti-money-laundering rules.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is a Golden Visa in Namibia?

There is no specific product called a Golden Visa in Namibia. The term is used informally to describe residency obtained through investment or business activity. In Namibia you must apply under the existing immigration categories for investor, business, work or long-term residence.

Can I buy property in Oshakati to qualify for residence?

Buying property may support a residence application as part of an investment profile, but purchase alone does not automatically grant a residence permit. You should obtain legal advice and perform title and zoning checks before purchasing. Authorities will also consider the overall nature of the investment and whether it meets immigration criteria.

What documents are typically required for an investor or business residence application?

Common documents include a valid passport, proof of investment funds and source of funds, a detailed business plan, company registration documents, tax clearance or registration, proof of accommodation, police clearance certificates, and medical clearance. Exact requirements depend on the permit category.

How long does the residence application process take?

Processing times vary depending on the complexity of the case, the permit category and the completeness of the application. Simple applications may be resolved in a few weeks, while more complex investor or company-based applications can take several months. Delays are common if documents are missing or additional checks are required.

Do I need to live in Namibia to keep my residence permit?

Residency conditions depend on the permit terms. Some permits require a minimum presence period, while others allow more flexibility but may require ongoing business activity or investment. Always check the specific conditions attached to the permit and maintain compliance.

Can my family come with me to Oshakati?

Family members - typically spouses and dependent children - can often apply for dependent permits linked to the main permit holder. Each family member will usually need to submit identity, medical and police clearance documents and meet any financial or administrative requirements.

Will I have to pay tax in Namibia?

If you become a tax resident or run a business in Namibia, you will have tax obligations. Namibia taxes residents on worldwide income and non-residents on Namibia-sourced income. Consult a tax advisor to understand registration, filing obligations and potential double tax considerations with your home country.

What are the common reasons applications are refused?

Common reasons include incomplete or inconsistent documentation, inadequate proof of funds or source of funds, failure to demonstrate a genuine business plan or economic benefit to Namibia, criminal records, or failure to meet health or character requirements.

Can I appeal a refusal?

Yes, refusals may be subject to internal review or administrative appeal processes. Timelines and grounds for appeal vary. A lawyer can assess the refusal letter, advise on merits and prepare an appeal or new application.

How do I find a reputable lawyer or adviser in Oshakati?

Look for lawyers or law firms licensed in Namibia with experience in immigration, corporate and property law. Check membership with the Law Society of Namibia, ask for references, request examples of similar cases handled, and confirm fee structures and communication protocols before engagement.

Additional Resources

Useful organisations and public bodies to consult or contact when seeking residence or investment-based permits include:

- The national immigration authority or Directorate of Immigration within the ministry responsible for home affairs and immigration - for permit categories, procedures and forms

- Business registration authority - for company formation and registration requirements

- Deeds Office - for property title searches and registration

- Namibian tax authority - for registration and tax compliance information

- Law Society of Namibia - to check a lawyer's professional standing

- Oshana Regional Council and Oshakati local authorities - for municipal requirements, land-use and local compliance

- Your home country embassy or consulate in Namibia - for consular assistance and guidance on travel and document authentication

Next Steps

If you are considering pursuing residence in Oshakati based on investment or business activity, follow these practical steps:

1. Assess your objectives - Determine whether you seek temporary residence, long-term residence or an immigration route tied to a business or investment. Consider family, work and tax implications.

2. Obtain an initial legal consultation - Engage a Namibian lawyer experienced in immigration and corporate law to evaluate your situation and outline suitable permit categories and strategies.

3. Gather documentation - Prepare passports, proof of funds, business plans, company documents, police and medical clearances and any other materials identified by your lawyer.

4. Perform due diligence - If purchasing property or investing in a local business, carry out title searches, corporate due diligence and financial checks.

5. Register any business entities - If your plan requires a company, register it properly and comply with corporate formalities and tax registration.

6. Submit the application - Work with your lawyer or authorised agent to complete and submit the immigration application with supporting documents.

7. Follow up and comply - Respond promptly to requests for more information, maintain compliance with permit conditions and keep clear records of investments and business activity.

8. Plan for contingencies - Have a strategy in case of delay or refusal, including preparation for appeals or alternate routes to residency.

Legal requirements and administrative practices can change. Rely on qualified local legal counsel for current, tailored advice and for representation before immigration authorities in Oshakati and Namibia.