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Visitor & short-stay visas

Malawian Visitors / Business Visit Permit

An entry permit granted at the border for tourism, visiting relatives or short business, which can be extended within Malawi if a longer stay is required.

Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
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Under review — check current rules

The 30-day initial stay and 60-day extension are drawn from the permits overview page; confirm the exact figures and whether they represent 30+60 or a 60-day maximum before publishing.

Important information

Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Malawi government website before you apply.
On this page
Official name
Visitors / Business Visit Permit
Route type
Visitor entry permit
Initial stay
30 days
Initial period stated on the Department of Immigration permits page
Extension
Extendable up to 60 days
Extension period stated by the Department; confirm total maximum stay
Maximum stay
30 days
Issued for a short period for tourism, visiting relatives and business.
Purpose
Tourism, visiting relatives, business
Allows a foreign national to enter and reside in Malawi for a short period.
Where to apply
Online via the official Malawi portal
The Department directs visa applications to evisa.gov.mw and permit/residence applications to epermit.gov.mw.

Who it is for

  • Tourists, people visiting relatives, and short-term business visitors
  • Visitors who may later need a Temporary Residence Permit if staying beyond the visit period

How to apply

  • The permit is granted by an immigration officer on entry
  • Extensions are requested from the Immigration Headquarters or a Regional Immigration Office

Requirements

The Visitors / Business Visit Permit is issued to a foreign national to enter and reside in Malawi for a short period for tourism, visiting relatives or business. It is valid for 30 days and may be extended for a further 60 days upon application and payment of the appropriate fees.

If you have stayed the maximum of 90 days on a Visitors / Business Visit Permit but have a legitimate and justifiable reason for continued residence, you should apply for a Temporary Residence Permit at a Regional Immigration Office or Headquarters rather than extending further.

Documents you may need

  • A valid passport (used to complete the application).
  • A recent digital passport photograph.
  • Details of your purpose of visit (tourism, visiting relatives, or business).
  • A credit or debit card (Visa / Mastercard) for online payment.

Frequently asked questions

  • The permit is valid for 30 days. It may be extended for a further 60 days — up to 90 days in total — on application and payment of the appropriate fees. Beyond 90 days you would need a Temporary Residence Permit.

Official sources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.

Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.

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