Business people residence permit
two-year or indefinite
Lesotho's Ministry of Home Affairs issues residence permits in several categories, including business people, teachers, doctors and nurses, missionaries, spouses and joining relatives, as two-year or indefinite permits. The Business People Permit is for people who already have, or want to open, a business in Lesotho. The applicant needs, among other things, a work permit certified by the Department of Labour and Employment, tax clearances and a trader's licence.
Life in Lesotho
Money
3
Currency
Lesotho Loti
LSL
Lesotho Loti
Cost of living
35
Price level · US = 100
World Bank price levels, 2025
Tax
20–30%
Income tax (national)
VAT 15%
2026/27 PAYE: 20% on the first LSL 6,480 a month and 30% above, less a non-refundable tax credit of LSL 1,020 a month (so salaries up to LSL 5,100 a month pay no tax).
Living
1
Happiness
#124 of 145 countries
World Happiness Report 2025
Your edge here Members
What gives you an edge here: passports, visas and permits you hold, work, study, language and family ties
Who it’s for
Foreign nationals who own or plan to open a business in Lesotho.
Eligibility
Business in Lesotho
The applicant has a business in Lesotho or wishes to open one.
Work permit
A work permit certified by the Department of Labour and Employment is required.
Tax compliance
Personal and company tax clearances certified by the Lesotho Revenue Authority.
A sneak peek at what's inside
- Next requirementPolice clearances
- Document checklistCompleted online form
- FeesResidence permit fee
The full requirements are for members
Create an account and subscribe to see every requirement, the full document checklist, fees, steps, processing times and conditions, and how your profile compares.
- 1 more requirement
- 12 documents
- 1 fee
- 5 steps
- Processing times and conditions
Places to visit in Lesotho
Attractions picked for you, based on your profile and interests.
Finding places for you…
