Botswana

Obtaining a residency in Botswana involves several steps and the process can be considered average in terms of difficulty. Expats looking to reside in Botswana typically apply for an Employment Visa or an Investor Visa, depending on their circumstances. The Employment Visa is for those who have secured a job in Botswana, and the employer often assists with the visa application process. To apply for an Employment Visa, the expat must provide a contract of employment, a completed application form, a valid passport, and proof of advertisement of the job position in local media to ensure that no suitable local candidate was available for the job. Additionally, a medical report, police clearance, and a fee are required. The Investor Visa is for individuals who plan to establish or invest in a business in Botswana. Applicants must provide evidence of the investment, a business plan, and other documentation that supports the viability of the business and its benefit to Botswana's economy. This visa also requires a completed application form, a valid passport, a medical report, police clearance, and the payment of a processing fee. Both visas require the applicant to apply for a residence permit once the visa is granted, which allows them to live in Botswana for a specified period, usually one to two years, and can be renewed. The process can be bureaucratic and time-consuming, as it involves multiple government departments, including the Department of and Citizenship. It is advisable for expats to begin the application process well in advance of their intended move to Botswana and to ensure that all paperwork is meticulously completed to avoid delays. Working with a local sponsor, employer, or legal representative can help navigate the complexities of the Botswana immigration system.

Healthcare in Botswana

Botswana's system is a blend of public and private services. The public healthcare system is accessible to all citizens and legal residents, providing services at minimal or no cost. It is funded by the government and includes primary healthcare facilities, district hospitals, and referral hospitals. The quality of public healthcare varies, with urban areas typically having better facilities and more resources than rural areas. Private healthcare in Botswana offers higher quality services with more modern facilities and shorter waiting times, but at a higher cost, making it less accessible to the general population. Expats and digital nomads can access public healthcare once they have legal residence status, but many opt for private health insurance to cover private healthcare services, which provide a higher standard of care. The cost of private healthcare can be significant, and it is advisable for expats and digital nomads to have comprehensive health insurance.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Botswana is considered moderate when compared to other countries in the region. While some goods and services, particularly in urban areas, can be expensive due to imports, overall expenses for daily living are reasonable for most residents.

Weather

Botswana has a semi-arid climate, with hot temperatures for most of the year. The country experiences a wet season from November to March and a dry season from April to October. Rainfall is sparse and more frequent in the north than in the south, while droughts can be common in certain years.

Educational System in Botswana

The educational system in Botswana is structured to provide free and compulsory education for the first ten years, which is divided into primary and junior secondary education. Children typically start school at the age of six, beginning with seven years of primary education, known as Standard 1 to Standard 7. After completing primary school, students proceed to three years of junior secondary education, which culminates in the Junior Certificate Examination. Successful students can then move on to two years of senior secondary education, leading to the Botswana General Certificate of Secondary Education (BGCSE). The quality of education in Botswana is considered to be good, with the government investing heavily in educational infrastructure and teacher training. English is the medium of instruction, which is beneficial for expatriate families. However, there can be variations in the quality of education between urban and rural areas. Schools in Botswana are generally well-equipped with facilities, and there is a growing number of private schools that offer international curricula, such as the International Baccalaureate (IB). The school year in Botswana typically runs from January to December, with breaks in April, August, and December.

The university system in Botswana is comprised of both public and private institutions, with the University of Botswana being the oldest and most prominent public university. University education usually takes four years to complete for a bachelor's degree, with some programs like engineering or medicine taking longer. The academic year is divided into two semesters, running from August to December and January to May. For international students, the application process involves meeting the specific entry requirements of the chosen program and demonstrating proficiency in English. The cost of attending university in Botswana for international students can vary depending on the institution and program of study. Scholarships and financial aid opportunities are available but can be competitive. Living expenses in Botswana are reasonable, and many universities offer on-campus accommodation, which can help mitigate costs. The quality of higher education is overseen by the Botswana Qualifications Authority (BQA), which ensures that institutions and programs meet certain standards. International students are welcomed in Botswana, and the country's peaceful and democratic nature makes it an attractive destination for education.