Zambia visas
Whether you need a visa or permit for Zambia depends on your nationality and the purpose and length of your stay — some travellers are visa-exempt, some can obtain a visa on arrival or apply online, and longer stays for work, study, investment or family reasons require a permit. Short visits use the visa system, while living, working or settling in Zambia is governed by immigration permits. All entry visas and permits are administered by the Department of Immigration under the Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security.
Zambian visa categories
Explore visa categories by the purpose of your trip.
- Visitor & short-stay visasShort stays in Zambia — tourism, visiting family or friends, business visits and transit, plus any visa-free or e-visa options.5 visas
- Work visasComing to Zambia to work — the employment and skilled-worker routes and the permits they require.2 visas
- Study visasStudying in Zambia — student visas and permits for accepted students.1 visa
- Family visasJoining or sponsoring a partner, child or other relative in Zambia.2 visas
- Business & investor visasInvesting, doing business or coming to Zambia as a highly skilled individual.1 visa
- Residence & citizenshipLiving in Zambia long term — residence routes and, where available, the path to citizenship.2 visas
Zambian visa application at a glance
From start to finish in five simple steps.
- 01Choose the right visa
- 02Check eligibility & documents
- 03Apply online
- 04Provide biometrics
- 05Wait for a decision
Zambia — key facts
- Visa authority
- Department of Immigration, Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security
- Application
- Online (in most cases)
- Biometrics
- Usually required
- Currency
- Zambian Kwacha (ZMW)
- Time zone
- Central Africa Time (CAT, UTC+2)
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.