Zambia offers several reasons to relocate, including a pleasant climate, cheap taxes, a favorable business environment, affordable housing, and other benefits. However, one needs to understand Zambia's immigration process to ensure a smooth and successful journey.
From visa types to requirements and application process, navigating the immigration system can be overwhelming. But don't worry; we've provided a comprehensive guide to help you plan ahead and have a hassle-free travel. Let's go!
Benefits of Zambia Immigration
Immigrants love the country's natural beauty, which includes lush forests, hilly landscapes, and spectacular waterfalls. They also love the kind and inviting citizens who are always eager to assist newcomers. Furthermore, the cost of living is relatively low, making it an appealing destination for those trying to stretch their financial resources.
If you also plan to travel abroad, check our articles below;
- How to Immigrate to the United Kingdom (UK)
- Immigration to Canada: What You Need to Know About Obtaining a Visa
- Easy Ways to Travel to the United States as an Immigrant
Zambia Entry Requirements
The Immigration and Deportation Act, which controls the number of foreign visitors entering the nation, influences Zambia's visa regulations. The Act states that foreign persons must have a valid visa in order to enter Zambia unless they are citizens of visa-free countries or are qualified to obtain one upon arrival (visa on arrival).
Additionally, there is a program called the e-Visa, which enables electronic visa applications. All travelers to Zambia must have passports that are valid for at least six months throughout their stay.
There are countries where citizens do not need visas to enter the country for thirty days as business or ninety days as tourists. The visa-free list is constantly updated, so before deciding to travel to Zambia without a visa, check the list. If your country is absent, you will require a visa.
Types of Zambia Visa
The Zambian government grants citizens of foreign countries the following kinds of visas:
Single-entry visa: This permits citizens of foreign origin to enter Zambian territory just once throughout the validity of the visa.
Double-entry visa: This permits foreign nationals to enter Zambia twice while the visa is valid.
Multiple-entry visa: For the period of the visa, this permits the bearer several entries into the nation.
Transit visa: This is given to visitors from overseas who are traveling through Zambia on their way to another country. The visa is good for seven days.
Day-tripper Visa: This is given to international visitors who intend to stay in Zambia for a single day. You can obtain a Zambia Day Tripper Visa at the Victoria Falls and Kazungula Border Controls. You have to use the same entry and exit points (or ports of entry).
Zambia tourist visa: Those who wish to visit friends and family, take in the sights, or spend some leisure time in Zambia must get a tourist visa. A tourist visa to Zambia is good for up to ninety days.
Zambia business visa: The business visa for Zambia is intended for business visitors who intend to visit the country only for business. The Zambian business visa allows for multiple entries and has a maximum stay of 30 days per 12 months. This visa is valid for a time basis. The business visa holders may stay in the nation for 30 consecutive days or spread them out over 12 months.
Long Stay/Immigration Visas
Zambia study visa: Study visas are required for anyone who wishes to enroll in courses at accredited Zambian universities. Accredited educational institutions are listed with both the Ministry of Science and Technology and the Ministry of Education. If you're considering Zambia immigration for study purposes, then this visa is for you.
Zambia work visa: Those who wish to reside and work in Zambia for a maximum of two years must get a work authorization visa. It is necessary that you apply for work authorization from your country of origin or where you reside permanently. After entering Zambia, you can apply for renewals and immigration permit. It's feasible that this Zambian visa will open doors for you to relocate permanently to Zambia. You can process your permanent residence after getting your Zambia work visa.
Zambia Visa Requirements
If you want to apply for a Zambia visa, you have to provide the following documents:
- Online application form
- A passport-size photo
- A photocopy of your valid passport
- Copy of return ticket
Study Visa Requirements
Here are additional documents you need if you're immigrating for schooling.
- Current passport of the applicant
- Passport size photographs
- A cover letter written to the Director General of Immigration, including the complete address and phone numbers.
- Consent from sponsor
- Letter of consent from the host supporting the applicant
- A letter of acceptance from your university, college, or school.
- Copy of the current status and valid residence permit of the host, parents, or guardians, if applicable.
- Copy of status of sponsor
- Copy of sponsor’s financial status.
- Letter from sponsor (if applicable).
- Proof of sufficient funds.
Work Visa Requirements
Here are additional documents you need if you're immigrating for work purposes.
- Certified passport of the applicant
- Passport size photographs
- Certified photocopies of the applicant's qualifications
- Applicant's CV
- An employer-written motivation letter
- Medical certificate
- Reference letters
- Transfer skills plan
- Original birth certificate
- Marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Contract of employment
- Letter of invitation from the Zambian company
- Radiological certificate
- Letter of motivation from the Zambian company
- A cover letter from the applicant's employer addressed to the Director General of Immigration.
- Information regarding the prospective employer and previous employer
- Police clearance from the country of residence
Tourist Visa Requirements
Here are additional documents you need if you're an ordinary visitor traveling for tourism purposes.
- Original passport
- Passport size photographs
- Proof of accommodation
- Cover letter from applicant addressed to the Director General of Immigration
Business Visa Requirements
Here are additional documents you need if you're traveling for business purposes.
- A cover letter on business letterhead written to the Director General of Immigration, including the complete physical address, phone numbers, and email address.
- Business invitation letter from the host company.
- A certified copy of the host company's certificate of incorporation is required.
- Current bank statements.
How To Apply For a Zambia Visa
Here are the two ways you can apply for a Zambia visa:
1. Apply Through the e-Visa Program
Anyone who requires a visa to enter Zambia can submit their application online. The steps in the submission of the application are as follows:
- Apply for a Zambian e-Visa here. Create an account on the e-visa facility and fill out the application form.
- Upload electronic versions of the necessary files.
- Pay the visa fee. You must make payments online using debit or credit cards such as MasterCard, Maestro UK, Discover, American Express, Visa Electron, and Maestro International. You will get an email with a receipt; print it out and present it to the immigration officials when you enter Zambia.
- Await the processing of your visa application. If your application is accepted, you will receive an approval letter for your Zambian e-Visa; you need to print this off and bring it with you to Zambia. Just in case, save an electronic copy of the visa on your phone, tablet, or laptop.
E-Visa Application Requirements & Tips
Here are some crucial pointers to know before submitting your e-visa application.
Apply Early: Since processing delays may occur, it helps to send in your application as soon as possible. The last thing you want to happen is to postpone or cancel your trip because of an unlucky event. To be safe, please submit your application at least five days before your travel. The Department of Immigration will handle the application.
Use the Same Passport: Always use the passport that you used to apply for the electronic visa. Since e-visas are associated with a traveler's passport, using a new passport will result in the absence of a visa. Additionally, your visa must still have at least six months remaining on it from the date of arrival; otherwise, the airport or application will refuse it.
Respect the Visa Agreement: Since these e-visas have a 90-day expiration date, ensure that they depart the country on the last day or earlier. If an extension is required, make sure you apply ahead of time rather than on the day or after your visa expires.
Cover Letter Format: Every cover letter needs to be properly signed by the applicant and addressed to the Director General of the Zambian Immigration Service. The letter must include vital information regarding the trip, including its goal, dates of arrival and departure, the trip sponsor, the address where they will be staying, and the sites of interest they intend to see.
Travel With A Copy: Always bring a copy of your electronic visa with you on your travels, as you'll need to convert it into a paper visa upon entry. You will not be permitted entry into the country if you cannot produce a copy of your valid visa as proof of your validity for the trip.
2. Apply at an Embassy
You can apply for a visa to Zambia at any of the country's foreign embassies or consulates. Also, you must contact the Zambian embassy or consulate in your nation to find out about their working days, hours of operation, and any special restrictions they may have for submitting a visa application. Should Zambian representation not exist in your nation, you have the option to apply online. Remember to use your credit or debit card for payments.
Zambia Visa Processing Time
Your nationality and the mode of application will determine how long it takes to process your Zambian visa. The processing period for visas to Zambia is five days if you're applying online. If you're applying at the consulate or embassy, it depends on the consular or embassy in question. The processing period may vary, but generally speaking, it takes at least five days.
Zambia Visa Fee
- The cost for Zambia tourist visa range between 900R ($50) to 2700R($147)
- The cost for a Zambia work visa is 18,000R ($982)
- The cost for a Zambia study visa is 6750R ($369)
- The cost for a Zambia business visa ranges between 3500R ($191) and 5500R ($300).
Conclusion
With its rich heritage, economic development, and stunning natural beauty, Zambia immigration offers a pathway to a land of endless opportunity, cultural diversity, and unforgettable experiences. This makes immigration a journey worth taking. So, what are you still waiting for?
