Work visas
Zambian Employment Permit
The main work permit for foreign nationals taking up employment in Zambia for more than six months.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
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 Zambia government website before you apply.
- Official name
- Employment Permit
- Route type
- Work permit
- Minimum engagement
- Employment exceeding 6 months
- Validity
- Up to 10 years (issued and extendable within that maximum)
Who it is for
- Foreign nationals employed in Zambia for more than six months
- Employees of Government, statutory bodies, private firms, NGOs or religious organisations
- Spouses and adult children employed in a foreigner's family business
Requirements
- Employer's covering letter to the Director General
- Employment contract or offer letter
- Curriculum vitae and professional qualifications
- Police clearance
- Press advertisements of the post from two leading newspapers
- Passport copy with endorsements and the prescribed fee
What you can do
- Take up the sponsored employment in Zambia
- Remain for the permit's validity and apply to extend within the maximum
How to apply
- Employer, lawyer or registered immigration consultant lodges the application
- Applicant remains outside Zambia until the permit is approved
- Travel to Zambia only after approval
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.