Settling-In Tips from
Staff at Crown Gaborone

What is special or unique about your city?

Welcome to the very best part of Africa. A destination of myriad beauties, rich cultures, wonderful scenery, and most importantly a very peaceful and stable country. Botswana is a country better known for peace, tranquility, diamonds and beef. It is a land of rich heritage, diverse cultures and the place where the wonderful waterways of the world renowned Okavango Delta meets the Kalahari thirst land. You have to see it for yourself.

What are a newcomer's first impressions of your city?

Newcomers will find Botswana and its people to be warm and friendly. It is a fast-growing, busy and modern city; but one that might, at first, seem so spread out that you can't identify the city centre. It's diverse and tranquil, and safe.

Are these impressions likely to change?

Some impressions will change. Time and adaptation to the culture and local customs will give the true perspective on the country.

What is the local language?

The two most widely spoken languages are Setswana, the national language of Botswana, and English.

How easily could I live in this city without knowing this language?

English is commonly used because it is the language of business and everyday life. Most people in Botswana are well educated and able to communicate in English.

What are good things to remember in order to avoid offending the other residents of this city?

It is important to know how to greet people in the local language. When talking to someone it is important to look at him or her directly and use the correct greetings which in Botswana are: Dumela Rra -- when directed at men, and: Dumela Mma -- when directed at women.

How might the local weather affect my daily life?

Botswana's climate is semi-arid which means that although it is hot and dry for much of the year, there is a rainy season (usually lasting through the summer months), when rainfall tends to be erratic, unpredictable and highly regional. Often a heavy downpour will occur in one area, while 10 or 15 kilometres away there is no rain at all. Showers are often followed by strong sunshine so that a good deal of the rainfall does not penetrate the ground and is instead lost to evaporation and transpiration. Until you become accustomed to it, the weather might cause dehydration. It is recommended that you drink plenty of water and fruit juices (at least three litres of liquid), daily.

Is there anything else I should know about the overall character of your city or its people?

Botswana is full of many friendly residents and it is common to say hello or to help each other. However, just like any other city, there are some neighborhoods that are unsafe. With that in mind, avoid unlit areas at night and seek safety in numbers, and you will be just fine!

Useful Links

General information Botswana Government Medical rescue Botswana local news

 

As a foreign resident, what is my status in your country?

Like any other resident you will be subject to the rules that govern and as such you will be able to engage in normal activities such as banking, puchasing real estate and operating a vehicle, but be sure to do your homework. Regarding monetary transactions, the Botswana authorities monitor the movement of money into and out of the country for various reasons including enforcemnt of anti-laundering measures. Regarding automobiles, residents of Botswana are not allowed to drive (or use) a foreign registered vehicle for more than fourteen days after importation of such a vehicle. Regarding firearms, if you import any, bear in mind that the issuance of licenses in Botswana is strictly controlled and yous need to be licensed immediately on arrival. Verify other details of your status with all the relevant government agencies as soon as you arrive.

What kinds of visas are available?

A General Entry visa is available for visitors from those countries that are required to show one. This visa allows you in the country for 30 to 90 days. Extensions may be obtained from immigration repreentatives in Botswana. Visa can be obtained from embassies outside Botswana or at its border posts. Foreigners from commonwealth countries are NOT required to obtain visas in order to enter Botswana, except in cases where the Minister of Labour and Home Affairs has directed otherwise. Botswana has also signed visa abolition agreements with a number of countries whose nationals are also not required to obtain entry visa. Commonwealth Countries Whose Nationals are Required to obtain Visas: Ghana; India; Nigeria; and Sri Llanka Other Countries Whose Nationals are Required To obtain visas:

What is required to obtain these visas?

For those who are required to have entry visas, you'll need to supply: A completed immigration supplementary Form D (Visa form). A letter of support from the host (if applicable). Two passport size pictures (identical). The fee of P500.00 (appx., US$85.00). A return visa or residence permit from home country or country of residence. A return plane ticket. A confirmation letter from the country, if the person is travelling for business purposes. If seeking authoriztion to work, you will need to supply, in addition to the above: A waiver from Labour and Immigration department. A copy of acknowledgment slip for residence permit application. If a person visiting Botswana wants to stay more than three months, he must apply, before entering Botswana, to the Chief Immigration Officer, P.O., Box 942, Gaborone; Tel: (267) 361-1300, Fax. (267) 352-996

Are spouses permitted and/or likely to find work?

Yes, a spouse is permitted to work if he or she has a valid work permit. This is to be obtained separately from the working partner's permit.

What are the main forms of identification and how does a newcomer obtain them?

All visitors entering Botswana must have a passport that is valid for at least six months. For security purposes, a photocopy of your passport can be offered as well and a driver's license is useful.

Are there any other important permits I must obtain, or places where I must register right away?

Please contact the embassy or other help agencies to have questions answered

What items should I avoid bringing into the country?

Avoid taking pornographic material; walkie-talkie radios; and feathers, furs, skins, tusks etc., of animals which coming under the protected species regulations. Also avoid narcotics, drugs, incitements; plant and vegetable products; firearms, ammunition and explosives of any kind.

Is there anything else I should know about entering and remaining in the country legally?

Please check with Immigration and

Useful Links

Botswana Tourism Board Botswana Government

 

What is the local currency?

The currency in Botswana is the Pula (P). It was introduced in 1976, replacing the south African rand and is one of the strongest currencies in Africa.

What denominations does it come in?

It was introduced in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25 and 50 thebe, and 1 pula. The 1 and 2 pula notes were replaced by coins in 1991 and 1994, respectively and 50 and 100 pula notes were introduced in 1992 and 1993, respectively.

What is the best way to exchange currency?

You will be able to exchange currencies at the banks, the hotels or even with safari operators. You will get very good rates for the pula at the local banks in Botswana or at the other currency-exchange agencies.

What are commonly-used forms of payment for everyday purchases (such as groceries)?

Cash and credit cards such as Visa, Mastercard and American Express are most common.

Will I be able to use my credit card around town? If not, list when I’ll need cash.

Most retail outlets will accept credit cards, but some smaller shops and restaurants may only accept cash. Fuel outlets (petrol stations) only accept cash or Fuel Card.

By what method are bills (such as rent and utilities) paid?

All the usual payment methods are acceptable Internet banking, telephone banking and some ATMs will allow payment for utilities. Some of the major supermarkets (Pick 'N Pay), have facilities for payment of utilities at their check-out counters.

What are the requirements for opening a bank account? At what stage of the settling-in process should I open it?

To open a bank account you'll be required to show proof of identity, in the form of a salary pay slip, residence permit, tax number and proof of residence—such as a utility bill no older than three months—and/or a valid passport. A deposit may also be required, but requirement might vary with each institution so it is best to check the exact requirements of each.

Will foreign residents be able to find banking services in their native languages?

There are several different banks represented in Botswana, (Barclays Bank; Stanbic Bank; Standard Chartered Bank) so there shouldn't be too much of a problem with communication; and most people in the country speak English.

Are there any restrictions on services for those who are new to your country?

There are none known, but as with everything else, it's best to check with respective institutions and government agencies before making decisions.

What are typical banking hours?

For Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, the normal hours are 9 a.m., to 2:30 p.m.; and Wednesdays, from 8:15 a.m., until noon.

Are automatic teller machines (ATMs) available around the clock?

ATMs are available in most of the larger cities and towns and credit and debit cards (American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa) are widely accepted.

Is there any other money information that might help me?

Traveller's cheques are accepted in large cities but with a high surcharge. Consider buying travel insurance if you can afford it and if your stay will be for a short period.

Useful Links

Standard Chartered Bank Bank of Botswana SADC Bankers

 

What are the top factors to keep in mind when searching for a place to live in your city?

Proximity to your job site, to schools and to other expatriates, as well as major shopping areas are some of the keys to settling well in Botswana. You'll want to avoid long commutes and the type of accommodation (such as free-standing house, apartment etc), and the level of security required, should also be considered.

What are the most popular neighborhoods in your city for expats?

The suburbs of Gaborone include Broadhurst, Gaborone West, The Village, Naledi and Phakalane. Phakalane is the preferred residential area for expatriates and foreign professionals, although some people prefer to live closer to town, nearer to schools and workplace.

Do expats tend to buy or rent their homes?

Gaborone has several popular suburbs; but it depends on the type of accommodation required.

Typically, will I be required to pay additional money up front (such as a deposit) before moving into leased housing? If so, how much is common?

Once a suitable rental home has been selected, the relevant papers will be drawn up and a deposit of one month rent paid, before the keys will be handed over for occupation. A range of short and medium term accommodation can be found – guest-houses, bed and breakfast, corporate apartments and furnished homes, depending on the duration required. A few suggestions are listed below: · Brackendene Lodge: +267 3128861 · Phakalane golf resort villas: +267 3604000/3930000 · Innisfree apartments: +267 3953603

Are utilities generally included in the price of rent, or are they extra?

Utilities must be paid for by the tenant. These include water, electricity, gas (if in an area where piped gas is used) and refuse removal. Charges are calculated on a scale according to the size of property and level of usage in the case of water, electricity and gas. Refuse removal rates are determined by whether it is household or commercial waste. Any queries regarding Utilities should be directed to Botswana Power Corporation and Botswana water and Utilities Corporation. Listed below are the Botswana Utilities telephone numbers. · Botswana Power Corporation +267 360 7000 · Botswana Water And Utilities +267 0800 5555

Are there special security concerns I should be aware of in regards to my home or choice of neighborhood?

It is advisable to choose a safe suburb away from high pedestrian and vehicle traffic. An intercom system, high walls and electric fencing are part of the Botswana lifestyle. Automatic gates and garage doors are essential and it is best not to have shrubs or trees on the pavement as cattle walk around freely. Street lights are highly recommended. Botswana remains a relatively safe place to visit, however there are a few incidents of crime. It is advisable to take basic precautions: · Always lock car doors · Always lock your hotel room or house · Do not leave valuables in your hotel room or car · Take care of your bag in crowded places, particularly malls and nightclubs

I’m not sure if I should bring my appliances. What is the electric current, Hz and plug shape in your city?

This depends on the sort of accommodation you decide to rent and whether it will be furnished or unfurnished. A fully furnished apartment is likely to contain everything from knives and forks, to bed linen and appliances. If this is the case, you need only bring items of a personal nature. If you intend to rent an unfurnished apartment you should bear in mind that these will already contain the following items: · Fully fitted kitchen with a stove (cooker) · Built in cupboards in the bedrooms · Carpeting or tiles throughout the apartment Electricity supply is 231V AC 50Hz and three prong round or two pin round plugs are used. Adaptors can be purchased if required and U.S.-made appliances may need a transformer.

Do you have any other accommodation information that might help me?

An option available to those individuals renting unfurnished accommodation is to hire the contents on a monthly rental basis. Crown Relocations are able to advise you on this option. Should you decide to bring your own household contents with you Crown Relocations will gladly advise you on all shipping and relocation issues. Botswana retailers stock a range of high quality local and imported fabric and soft furnishings (curtains/drapes) should you decide to furnish locally. South Africa works on a 231 volt, 50 hertz cycle electrical system. If you are travelling from North America or certain European countries that operate on a 110 – 120 volt, 60 hertz cycle system, it would not be advisable to bring these appliances with you unless they incorporate a built in voltage adjustment system. Similarly, TV's and VCR’s from these countries utilise the "SECAM or NTSC" systems while Botswana uses the "SECAM" and "PAL" system. TV's, DVD players and VHS players can be rented for a monthly consideration. Domestic electrical plugs have three, rectangular blade prongs, the same as used in the UK. It would be advisable to buy these on your arrival and replace the existing plugs on your appliances if they differ from these. Any lights brought into Botswana must have light bulbs with the correct voltage fitted. The majority of radio stations broadcast on FM stereo and most portable radio receivers will operate in Botswana. Botswana employs the GSM digital cellular system and the majority of instruments are compatible with this system. Local cellular service providers will be able to assist you in configuring your mobile phone to local conditions.

Useful Links

Botswana-direct.com Roomsforafrica.com Gabscity.com Wheretostay.co.za

 

What types of schools do most expats in your city choose for their children?

Most expatriates choose to send their children to independent schools, or international schools, instead of public schools. Independent schools are similar to private schools in the United States and United Kingdom and International schools cater mainly to children who are not nationals of the host country.

What are some examples of these schools?

Good Preschools include, Seven Stars, Payo, Humpty Dumpty and Academy of Toddlers. In Botswana they do not have Prep Schools because prep work is done in the Preschools. While the High Schools are not very highly recommended, two good ones are Maruapula Secondary School and Westwood International Secondary School.

Is there a lot of competition for spots in local schools?

For local public schools, there is not; however, there is more competition for the independent (private) schools because they only allow a certain number of pupils to be accepted for enrollment each year. However, most local residents send their children to public schools because the independent schools are very costly.

Are pre-schools also widely available (for children approx. 2 to 5 years old)?

Yes, pre-schools are widely available in Botswana for this age group. As listed above the popular ones include Seven Stars, Payo, Humpty Dumpty and Academy of Toddlers.

How are most kids transported to and from school?

Parents generally transport their children to and from school, but some schools do provide school bus transportation. In cases where bus transportation is not provided, parents form car pools with other parents and take turns.

When does the typical school year start and end?

There are three (3) school terms each year: The first is from the end of January to April. The second is from the end of May to July. And the third from August to the begining of December.

Is there anything else I should know about local schools?

The public schools all follow a uniform, governmentally-prescribed curriculum, while the independent and international schools adhere to a wide variety of educational philosophies. When students say they have their matric, it means they have passed grade 12. Matric is the word used more often than not for the term grade 12, which as mentioned above is the final year at high school. University acceptance is largely based on the Matric.

Useful Links

 

IMPORTANT NOTE:
Crown Relocations has made every effort to present accurate information. However, regulations, rates and other variables are subject to change and Crown Relocations cannot accept responsibility for the errors that might result. Please contact your closest embassy or consulate for confirmation.