How to Calculate Income Tax in Namibia

What is an income tax?

An income tax is a tax imposed on individuals or entities in respect of the income or profits earned by them. Income tax generally is computed as the product of a tax rate times the taxable income. Taxation rates may vary by type or characteristics of the taxpayer and the type of income.

Where and how to calculate an income tax in Namibia

Namibia has a source-based tax system, which means that income from a source within Namibia or deemed to be within Namibia will be subject to tax in Namibia, unless a specific exemption is available. Mostly in Namibia, the straight forward way to calculate efficient tax rate is to divide the income tax expenses by the income earned before taxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much should you earn to pay tax in Namibia?

A salary earning individual who earns an income of more than N$ 40 000 per annum and non-salary income in excess of N$ 5 000 per month is liable to pay tax and should register for income tax.

How do I calculate my gross income tax in Namibia?

Your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) is then calculated by subtracting the adjustments from your total income. Your AGI is the next step in figuring out your taxable income. You then subtract certain deductions from your AGI. The resulting amount is taxable income on which your taxes are calculated.

How do I claim tax back in Namibia?

  • The words “Tax Invoice”
  • The seller’s name and address.
  • The seller’s VAT registration number.
  • Your name.
  • The date of issue of the tax invoice.
  • A tax invoice number.
  • A full description of the goods purchased.
  • The cost of goods excluding 15% VAT.

Is foreign income taxable in Namibia?

Namibia has a source based system of taxation with the result that Namibian residents are, save for some exceptions, only taxed on their Namibian income while foreign residents are taxed only on the income generated within Namibia.

What is the VAT rate in Namibia?

VAT is levied at the standard rate of 15% on the supply of most goods and services and on the importation of goods. It is mandatory for a person who carries on a business with an annual taxable turnover above N$500,000 to apply for VAT registration.

Is a bonus taxable in Namibia?

Typical items of an expatriate compensation package set out below are fully taxable: Basic salaries, wages, leave pay, and bonuses.

How is income calculated?

How to calculate annual income. To calculate an annual salary, multiply the gross pay (before tax deductions) by the number of pay periods per year. For example, if an employee earns $1,500 per week, the individual’s annual income would be 1,500 x 52 = $78,000.

Is housing allowance taxable in Namibia?

Housing allowance is taxable, however 1/3 is exempt if the employer has an approved housing scheme; The use of a company car is taxable at 1.5% if all costs are paid by the employer and 1.4% if you as an employee pays the fuel cost.

How does Namibia tax work?

Namibia has a source based system of taxation with the result that Namibian residents are, save for some exceptions, only taxed on their Namibian income while foreign residents are taxed only on the income generated within Namibia.

How does VAT work in Namibia?

The standard rate of VAT is 15% and certain specified supplies of goods and services may be zero-rated. Where a registered person exports goods from Namibia, the sale will be subject to 0% VAT. Import VAT is applicable and payable (at an effective rate of 16.5%) on all goods (movable items) imported into Namibia.

How do I register for tax in Namibia?

To register, you need to complete a registration form, and have a copy of your identification document (ID, passport or birth certificate) to submit with the form. Step 2: Click here to download the taxpayer registration form. Now continue to complete the form.

Is rental income taxable in Namibia?

Premises, land, building, house, backyard flat, and office space. Income received from any agreement for the usage of the property is taxable, provided that such a property is situated in Namibia. Money paid to terminate the rental agreement is also taxable and should be included in the income for the year.

Does Namibia have capital gains tax in Namibia?

Namibia has no capital gains tax, estate duty, inheritance tax or donation tax. Partnerships are not treated as separate taxable entities and partners are taxed on their share of net partnership income.

What is a tax certificate in Namibia?

A Good Standing Certificate is issued by Inland Revenue Department to confirm that a taxpayer is compliant with the Namibian tax laws in terms of submission of tax returns and payment of taxes.

When must you register for VAT in Namibia?

A registered person must submit a VAT return on or before 25th day of the month following the end of the period.

Do you charge VAT on exports to Namibia?

Value-Added Tax. 874. VAT on exports to Namibia. Namibian VAT is payable upon importation into Namibia at either 15% or 30%, depending on the nature of the goods.

Is there VAT in Namibia?

VAT is payable on all imports for home consumption in Namibia, subject to certain exemptions (e.g. in terms of a technical assistance agreement, donations to the state, goods of which the local supply is zero-rated). Import VAT is payable on the greater of the free on board (FOB) value plus 10% or the market value.

Need Information or Confused about Something ?

Ask a Question

 

Sponsored Guide

Complete Guide to NSFAS Online Loan Application for South African Students (2025)

If you are a South African student looking to pursue higher education but are facing financial difficulties, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is one of the most accessible funding options available. NSFAS provides financial aid in the form of bursaries and loans to qualifying students at public universities and TVET colleges in South Africa.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the NSFAS loan application process, from eligibility requirements to application steps and frequently asked questions.

📌 What is NSFAS?

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a government-funded financial aid scheme aimed at helping students from low- and middle-income households to access tertiary education without the burden of upfront fees.

NSFAS offers both bursaries and income-contingent loans:

  • Bursaries: For eligible students who meet academic and household income criteria (especially for TVET and university students).
  • Loans: For students who do not meet all bursary criteria or who are pursuing postgraduate qualifications not funded under bursary schemes.

✅ Who Qualifies for an NSFAS Loan?

To qualify for an NSFAS loan (especially for postgraduate students or programs not funded under the bursary system), you must:

  • Be a South African citizen.
  • Be financially needy, with a household income of less than R350,000 per year.
  • Have a valid South African ID.
  • Be enrolled or accepted to study at a public university or TVET college.
  • Not be funded through another bursary program that covers all expenses.
  • Maintain satisfactory academic progress (returning students).

📚 Courses Funded by NSFAS

NSFAS primarily funds undergraduate qualifications, but certain postgraduate programs (e.g., PGCE, postgraduate diplomas in education, and professional courses like LLB) may be considered under the NSFAS loan scheme, not bursaries.

If you’re studying:

  • Undergraduate degree or diploma: You are likely eligible for a full NSFAS bursary.
  • Postgraduate study: You may qualify for a loan, depending on the course and funding availability.

📄 Required Documents for NSFAS Application

When applying, make sure you have the following documents scanned and ready:

  1. Certified copy of your South African ID or Smart Card.
  2. Parent(s) or guardian(s) ID documents.
  3. Proof of income (latest payslips, UIF, or affidavit if unemployed).
  4. Consent Form signed by your parent(s)/guardian(s) to allow NSFAS to verify income.
  5. Proof of registration or acceptance at a public institution.
  6. Academic transcripts (for continuing or postgraduate students).

🖥️ How to Apply for an NSFAS Loan Online

Step-by-Step NSFAS Online Application Process (2025)

  1. Visit the NSFAS Website

    Go to: https://www.nsfas.org.za

  2. Create an Account

    • Click on “MyNSFAS” and register your profile.
    • You’ll need a valid email address and South African cellphone number.
    • Choose a strong password and verify your account via email or SMS.

  3. Login and Start the Application

    • After registration, log in to your MyNSFAS account.
    • Click on “Apply” to begin a new application.

  4. Fill in Your Personal Details

    • Input your ID number, name, surname, and other details exactly as they appear on your ID.
    • Provide household income information and living arrangements.

  5. Upload Required Documents

    • Upload all supporting documents in PDF or JPEG format.
    • Each document must be clear and under the size limit specified.

  6. Submit Your Application

    • Review your application for accuracy.
    • Click “Submit” and wait for a confirmation message.

  7. Track Your Application

    • Log in regularly to check your application status.
    • You will be notified via SMS and email at each stage of the process.

🗓️ Important NSFAS Dates (2025)

  • Application Opening Date: September 1, 2025
  • Application Deadline: January 31, 2026
  • Appeals Period: February 2026 (if rejected)
  • Disbursement: After registration and approval

Note: Dates are subject to change; always confirm on the official NSFAS website.

💸 What Does the NSFAS Loan Cover?

NSFAS funding typically includes:

  • Tuition fees
  • Registration fees
  • Accommodation (if living away from home)
  • Meals and transport
  • Learning materials (e.g., textbooks)

For loans, repayment is only required once you start working and earn above a threshold (around R30,000 annually, but subject to change).

🔄 NSFAS Loan Repayment

Repayments are:

  • Income-contingent – you only repay when you can afford to.
  • Administered by DHET (Department of Higher Education and Training).
  • Interest-bearing, but interest rates are low and favorable.

You can also apply for a partial loan conversion to a bursary if you perform well academically.

🔁 How to Appeal a Rejected NSFAS Application

If your application is rejected, you may submit an appeal via your MyNSFAS portal:

  1. Log into your MyNSFAS account.
  2. Click on “Track Funding Progress”.
  3. If rejected, click on “Submit Appeal”.
  4. Upload any missing or corrected documents.
  5. Provide a clear explanation or motivation.

📱 NSFAS Contact Information

📝 Final Tips Before Applying

  • Apply early to avoid system overload near the deadline.
  • Use your own email and cellphone number (do not use someone else’s).
  • Double-check that all your documents are certified and legible.
  • Keep a copy of your submission confirmation for reference.

By following this guide, you can confidently apply for NSFAS funding and move one step closer to achieving your academic and career dreams—without the burden of immediate financial pressure.

 

Related Posts: