No airport tax is levied on passengers upon embarkation at the airport.
The information on this page covers the most common types of travel and reflects the UK government’s understanding of the rules currently in place. Unless otherwise stated, this information is for travellers using a full ‘British Citizen’ passport.
The authorities in the country or territory you’re travelling to are responsible for setting and enforcing the rules for entry. If you’re unclear about any aspect of the entry requirements, or you need further reassurance, you’ll need to contact the embassy, high commission or consulate of the country or territory you’re travelling to.
You should also consider checking with your transport provider or travel company to make sure your passport and other travel documents meet their requirements.
Entry rules in response to coronavirus (COVID-19)
Entry to Lesotho
Moshoeshoe International Airport remains closed except for transport of essential goods and essential services personnel.
Movement across the border is restricted to those providing essential goods and services, those with medical emergencies (with permits) and certain other limited categories.
Those permitted to enter Lesotho must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours. This should show:
- the name of the traveller (which must correspond with their travel document)
- a serial number which is not duplicated
- clear and visible proof that the certificate was issued within 72 hours
- the date on which the swab was taken and the date the results were provided to the traveller
- the name of the testing laboratory approved by the Minister responsible for health
The border crossing points at Maseru Bridge, Caledonspoort (Butha Buthe), Maputsoe Bridge, Qacha’s Nek Bridge and Vanrooyens Gate (Mafeteng) remain open to those providing essential goods and services, those with medical emergencies and limited other categories of traveller, but this is subject to change at short notice. Their hours of operation are reduced due to the COVID-19 related curfew in South Africa. See our travel advice for South Africa for further information.
If you wish to enter or exit Lesotho, you’ll need a negative PCR COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of travel. You should not use the NHS testing service to get a test in order to facilitate your travel to another country. You should arrange to take a private test.
Truck drivers, Basotho students studying in South Africa and others who cross the border daily are permitted to cross for 14 days before a further test is required.
Transiting via South Africa
All visitors to Lesotho must travel through, or transit via, South Africa. See our travel advice for South Africa for further information.
Screening on arrival and departure
Everyone entering Lesotho will be screened for coronavirus.
Individuals entering or leaving Lesotho must provide evidence of a negative PCR COVID-19 test, taken within 72 hours of travel.
You should comply with any additional screening measures.
Quarantine requirements
Travellers showing symptoms of coronavirus will be required to self-isolate at their permanent or temporary residence or may be placed in an isolation facility in a government hospital at their own expense.
Data collection
Travellers entering Lesotho may be required to provide details of where they will be staying to aid the Government’s efforts to tackle COVID-19.
If you need further information about entry requirements, contact the local immigration authorities or the nearest Lesotho High Commission.
Regular entry requirements
Visas
British nationals can obtain entry visas on arrival. Overstaying without proper authority is a serious matter. You may be held in detention.
Passport validity
Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 90 days from the date of exit from Lesotho. You must have at least 2 blank pages in your passport when you present it at immigration to enter or leave Lesotho.
UK Emergency Travel Documents
UK Emergency Travel Documents are accepted for entry into, transit and exit from Lesotho. Your Emergency Travel Document should have a minimum of 6 months remaining validity.
Yellow fever certificate requirements
Check whether you need a yellow fever certificate by visiting the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website.
South Africa
If you intend to visit South Africa before or after travelling to Lesotho your passport should have at least 2 additional blank pages when you present it at immigration to enter or leave South Africa.
Travelling with children via a South African airport
If you’re transiting through a South African airport with children, see our South Africa travel advice page for information and advice about the documents you’ll need to carry.
Crime
Muggers in central Maseru frequently target foreign nationals. Don’t walk alone in isolated areas or after dark and avoid driving in rural areas at night. When driving in urban centres, especially Maseru, keep doors locked, windows shut and valuables out of sight. Park in well-lit areas and do not pick up strangers. Take care at the approaches to main border crossings, particularly at night. There have been cases of armed car-jacking. If you are involved in such an incident, offer no resistance.
Take precautions to safeguard valuables and cash. Leave them in hotel safes, where practicable. Keep copies of important documents, including passports, in a separate place.
There is often an increase in criminal activity, especially property crimes, leading up to the holiday season. Take extra care and be vigilant during this period.
Local travel
There is no effective public transport system. Taxis can be arranged through hotels and you should use pre-booked taxis where possible.
Road travel
A British driving licence or International Driving Permit is valid for use in Lesotho for up to three months. If you wish to drive for a longer period, you will need a local driving licence.
Driving standards in Lesotho are poor and you should drive carefully. Local mini-bus taxis are often poorly maintained and uninsured, and ignore road safety rules. Animals roaming on the roads are a hazard, especially at night.
Air travel
The European Commission has published a list of air carriers that are subject to an operating ban or restrictions within the European Union.
Political situation
There are occasional planned and spontaneous political demonstrations in Maseru. You should avoid demonstrations, rallies and large public gatherings and stay at home if there is any unusual activity by the security forces.
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