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Get Your Zambia Visa Online
Fast, secure visa processing for tourism, business, and unforgettable African adventures
TrustpilotHow to Get Your Zambia Visa
Simple 4-step process - most applications approved within 2-5 business days
1
Complete the online application
Fill out our streamlined application form with your personal details, travel plans, and accommodation information. Our intelligent validation system guides you through each section, checking for common errors and ensuring your application meets Zambia's e-Visa requirements.
2
Upload your documents
Submit your passport scan with bio page clearly visible, a recent passport-sized photograph, and proof of accommodation. Our visa specialists review every document against Zambia Immigration standards before submission, significantly reducing the risk of rejection or delays.
3
We submit to Zambia Immigration
Your verified application is transmitted directly to Zambia's official e-Visa portal. We monitor processing status in real-time and proactively communicate any updates, requests for additional documentation, or status changes via email and SMS notifications.
4
Receive your visa by email
Your approved Zambia e-Visa arrives as a PDF document. Print it clearly on A4 paper and present it at Zambian immigration along with your passport. Welcome to Zambia - home of Victoria Falls and some of Africa's finest wildlife experiences!
Visa types needed for Zambia
Zambia eVisa - 90 days, Single entry
The Zambia eVisa provides access to Victoria Falls, South Luangwa safari, and the Zambezi. Valid for 90 Days with single entry, this visa allows stays up to 90 days. Perfect for tourism and business.
Applicants must submit the following documents:
- 🛂 Passport: Valid for at least 6 months with blank pages
- 📸 Digital Photo: Recent passport-style photograph
- ✈️ Travel Details: Confirmed travel itinerary
- 🏨 Accommodation: Hotel or host booking
- 💳 Payment: Credit or debit card for fee
Important to know
- Maximum stay: 90 days per visit
- Print visa for presentation at immigration
Zambia Visa Requirements & Entry Information
Tourist Visa
Up to 90 days
Single or double entry for tourism and leisure travel
Business Visa
Up to 90 days
For commercial activities and business meetings
Transit Visa
Up to 48 hours
For travelers passing through Zambia
KAZA UniVisa
Up to 30 days
Multi-country visa for Zambia and Zimbabwe
Essential Requirements
- Passport valid 6+ months with 2 blank pages
- Passport photo 35x45mm, white background
- Hotel booking or invitation letter from host
- Return flight or onward travel itinerary
- Proof of sufficient funds for your stay
- Yellow fever certificate if from endemic area
Visa Policy
Zambia operates an electronic visa system through its e-Visa portal, welcoming visitors from around the world to experience one of Africa's most spectacular destinations. The Zambia e-Visa program has streamlined entry for tourists, business travelers, and transit passengers.
Tourist Visa
The standard Zambia tourist visa allows single or double entry with stays up to 90 days - perfect for witnessing the thundering Victoria Falls, embarking on walking safaris in South Luangwa National Park, and exploring the pristine wilderness of the Lower Zambezi. This visa type suits most leisure travelers visiting Zambia for wildlife safaris, adventure activities, and cultural exploration. You can engage in tourism activities, visit friends and family, and attend non-commercial events during your stay.
KAZA UniVisa
One of the most valuable options for regional travelers is the KAZA UniVisa, a joint visa allowing unlimited border crossings between Zambia and Zimbabwe for 30 days. This is ideal for visitors wanting to experience Victoria Falls from both sides - the Zambian and Zimbabwean perspectives offer different but equally spectacular views.
Visa Requirements
Essential Requirements for All Applicants
All Zambia visa applicants must meet these fundamental requirements:
Passport validity: Minimum 6 months beyond your intended arrival date with at least 2 blank pages for entry stamps and visa affixing.
Photograph: Recent passport-sized photo (35x45mm) with white background, taken within the last 6 months.
Accommodation proof: Hotel booking confirmation, safari lodge reservations, or invitation letter if staying with friends or family in Zambia.
Travel itinerary: Flight bookings showing entry and exit from Zambia with confirmed dates.
Sufficient funds: Evidence of financial means to support your stay. Bank statements showing approximately $100 USD per day are recommended.
Yellow fever vaccination: Required if arriving from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic country. The vaccination certificate must be administered at least 10 days before arrival.
Application Process
E-Visa Application Steps
Zambia's electronic visa system makes applying straightforward. Complete the online application with accurate personal and travel information, upload required documents in clear digital format, pay the visa fee online, and receive your approval via email.
Processing Times
Standard e-Visa processing takes 2-5 business days, though most applications receive decisions within 48-72 hours. During peak tourist season (June-October dry season) and around major holidays, processing may take slightly longer. Apply at least 2 weeks before travel.
Visa on Arrival
Zambia also offers visa on arrival at major entry points for most nationalities. However, the e-Visa is recommended to avoid potential queues and ensure a smoother arrival experience. Pre-approved travelers simply present their printed e-Visa at immigration.
Entry Points
Zambia e-Visas are valid at all official ports of entry including Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in Lusaka, Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport in Livingstone, and all land borders including the Victoria Falls border post.
Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
Zambia offers excellent experiences year-round, but timing affects activities. The dry season (May-October) provides prime wildlife viewing as animals congregate around water sources. Victoria Falls is most dramatic during high water (February-May) but partially obscured by spray. The emerald season (November-April) offers lush landscapes, newborn animals, and fewer tourists.
Health Preparations
Malaria prophylaxis is strongly recommended for Zambia. Consult a travel health clinic 4-6 weeks before departure. Yellow fever vaccination is required if arriving from endemic countries and recommended for protection.
Currency and Payments
Zambia's currency is the Zambian Kwacha (ZMW). US Dollars are widely accepted at tourist establishments, lodges, and for activity payments. ATMs available in major towns but carry sufficient cash for remote safari areas.
Safari Expectations
Zambia pioneered walking safaris and remains a premier destination for this intimate wildlife experience. South Luangwa, Lower Zambezi, and Kafue National Parks offer world-class game viewing with fewer crowds than East African destinations.
Why Choose DoVisa?
See the difference between applying yourself vs using our expert service
| Feature | Applying Yourself |  With DoVisa |
|---|---|---|
| Application reviewExpert review before submission | ✗No expert check | ✓100% reviewed by experts |
| Document validationCheck documents meet requirements | ✗Risk of rejection | ✓Pre-checked for errors |
| Customer supportHelp when you have questions | ✗Government offices only | ✓24/7 dedicated support |
| Form guidanceAssistance filling out forms | ✗Complex forms alone | ✓Step-by-step guidance |
| Status trackingKnow where your application is | ✗Manual checking | ✓Real-time updates |
| Refund if deniedProtection if visa is rejected | ✗No refund possible | ✓Money-back guarantee |
1,000+Visas processed
24/7Expert support
4.6Customer rating
97%Approval rate
"Got my Zambia visa in just 3 days! Victoria Falls was absolutely incredible and the visa process was the easiest part of planning my trip."
"First time visiting Africa and DoVisa made the visa process completely stress-free. South Luangwa walking safari was life-changing!"
"Applied on Monday, approved by Wednesday. The document checklist was super helpful for gathering everything I needed."
"Excellent service for our family safari. All four visas processed together and approved on the same day. Highly recommend!"
"The KAZA UniVisa recommendation was perfect - we could cross between Zambia and Zimbabwe freely to see Victoria Falls from both sides."
"Good experience overall. Processing took about 4 days but customer support kept me updated throughout. Will use again!"
"DoVisa helped with all our safari documentation. Lower Zambezi canoeing with hippos was unforgettable. Thank you!"
"Business visa for meetings in Lusaka sorted quickly. Professional service and clear communication throughout the process."
"Great support team who answered all my questions about yellow fever requirements. Visa approved without any issues."
"Seamless visa experience for our honeymoon trip. Livingstone and Victoria Falls exceeded all expectations. Highly recommend DoVisa!"
Zambia Visa FAQs
What types of visas are available for Zambia?
Zambia offers several visa categories through its electronic visa system. Single-entry tourist visa allows stays up to 90 days for holidays, safaris, and general tourism. Double-entry tourist visa permits two entries within 90 days - useful if visiting neighboring countries and returning. Multiple-entry visa allows frequent travelers unlimited entries over 6-12 months. Transit visa permits passage through Zambia within 48 hours. Business visa covers commercial activities and meetings. KAZA UniVisa is a special regional visa allowing unlimited crossings between Zambia and Zimbabwe for 30 days - perfect for experiencing Victoria Falls from both countries.
What is the KAZA UniVisa and should I get one?
The KAZA UniVisa is a joint visa between Zambia and Zimbabwe, named after the Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area. Valid for 30 days, it allows unlimited border crossings between both countries - ideal for Victoria Falls visitors who want to experience this wonder from both the Zambian and Zimbabwean sides. The visa costs approximately $50 USD and can be obtained on arrival at major entry points or online. Benefits: Cross the Victoria Falls border freely, no separate Zimbabwe visa needed, flexibility to explore both countries. Recommended for: Anyone visiting Victoria Falls, travelers wanting to see the falls from both perspectives, those planning activities on both sides of the border.
How long does Zambia visa processing take?
Zambia e-Visa processing typically takes 2-5 business days, with most applications receiving decisions within 48-72 hours. Processing times can vary based on several factors: Peak season (June-October dry season for safaris, December-January holidays) may experience slightly longer processing. Application completeness significantly impacts speed - applications with clear documents and accurate information process faster. Recommendations: Apply at least 2 weeks before travel to allow buffer time; ensure all documents meet requirements; respond promptly to any additional information requests. DoVisa's pre-submission review helps ensure applications are complete, reducing the risk of delays.
Do I need a yellow fever vaccination for Zambia?
Yellow fever vaccination requirements depend on your travel history. Mandatory vaccination: Required if arriving from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic country - this includes most of sub-Saharan Africa and parts of South America. You must show your International Certificate of Vaccination at immigration. The vaccination must be administered at least 10 days before arrival. Not required: Travelers arriving directly from non-endemic countries (Europe, North America, Asia, Australia) don't require yellow fever vaccination for Zambia entry. Recommendation: Many health authorities recommend yellow fever vaccination for Zambia even when not required, as the disease is present in some parts of the country. Consult a travel health clinic 4-6 weeks before departure.
What documents do I need for a Zambia visa application?
Essential documents for all applications: Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond arrival with minimum 2 blank pages; recent passport-sized photograph (35x45mm, white background, taken within 6 months); completed application form with accurate travel details. Supporting documents: Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings, safari lodge confirmations, or invitation letter), round-trip flight itinerary, travel insurance covering your stay. Business visa additions: Invitation letter from Zambian company, employer support letter, business itinerary. All applicants: May be asked for proof of sufficient funds (bank statements showing approximately $100/day), yellow fever certificate if arriving from endemic region. Documents should be clear, legible scans in PDF or JPEG format.
Can I get a visa on arrival in Zambia?
Yes, Zambia offers visa on arrival for most nationalities at major entry points including Kenneth Kaunda International Airport, Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport in Livingstone, and major land borders. However, the e-Visa is strongly recommended for several reasons: Avoid potential queues at immigration; pre-approved entry is smoother and faster; some airlines may request visa confirmation before boarding; peace of mind before travel. Visa on arrival fees: Single entry approximately $50 USD, KAZA UniVisa $50 USD, transit visa $50 USD. Payment in US Dollars cash preferred. Recommendation: Apply online through DoVisa for the most stress-free experience, especially during peak tourist season when arrival queues can be lengthy.
How long can I stay in Zambia with a tourist visa?
A standard Zambia tourist visa allows stays of up to 90 days. The exact duration granted depends on your application and the type of visa: Single entry allows one entry with up to 90 days stay. Double entry permits two entries within the visa validity. Multiple entry allows unlimited entries over 6-12 months. KAZA UniVisa is valid for 30 days with unlimited Zambia-Zimbabwe crossings. Extensions: Tourist visa extensions are possible by applying at the Immigration Department in Lusaka before your current visa expires. Extensions are granted at the discretion of immigration officials. Important: Overstaying is taken seriously - always monitor your permitted stay dates and plan departure or extension accordingly.
Is Zambia safe for tourists?
Zambia is generally safe for tourists and known for its welcoming, peaceful atmosphere. It has avoided the political instability affecting some neighboring countries. Safe areas: Lusaka (main tourist areas), Livingstone and Victoria Falls, all major national parks and safari lodges. These areas have good security infrastructure and are well-patrolled. Practical advice: Use reputable tour operators for safaris; avoid walking alone at night in cities; keep valuables secure; follow local advice about areas to avoid; register with your embassy's travel notification service. Wildlife safety: Follow guide instructions at all times - Zambia's wildlife is wild and should be respected. Health considerations: Malaria prophylaxis strongly recommended; drink bottled water; ensure travel insurance covers medical evacuation.
When is the best time to visit Zambia?
Zambia offers distinct experiences throughout the year. Dry season (May-October): Prime wildlife viewing as animals gather around diminishing water sources. Easier game spotting in thinner vegetation. Best for walking safaris. Victoria Falls less dramatic but clearer views without spray. Busiest tourist period with higher prices. Emerald season (November-April): Lush green landscapes, dramatic thunderstorms, newborn animals, migratory birds arrive. Fewer tourists and lower prices. Some remote camps close. Victoria Falls specifically: February-May offers the most dramatic water flow but heavy spray can obscure views; September-December provides clearer viewing with moderate water levels; lunar rainbows visible during full moon. Best overall: June-September balances excellent wildlife viewing with pleasant weather.
What currency should I bring to Zambia?
Zambia's official currency is the Zambian Kwacha (ZMW), but US Dollars are widely accepted throughout tourist areas. Recommendations: Bring US Dollars for major expenses - safaris, lodges, activities, and park fees are often quoted in USD. Ensure bills are post-2006 series and in good condition. Carry Zambian Kwacha for small purchases, markets, and local transportation. Card acceptance: Major credit cards accepted at larger hotels and lodges; smaller establishments prefer cash. ATMs: Available in Lusaka, Livingstone, and larger towns. Carry sufficient cash for remote safari areas where ATMs are unavailable. Safari tipping: Usually expected in cash (USD or ZMW) - $10-15 per day for guides, $5-10 per day for camp staff is customary.
Do children need their own Zambia visa?
Yes, every traveler including infants requires their own Zambia visa. There are no family visas or provisions for children on parents' documents. Requirements for children: Valid passport in child's own name with 6+ months validity; passport-sized photograph meeting same specifications as adults; completed application with child's details. Additional documentation: Birth certificate recommended; if traveling with one parent, notarized consent from absent parent; if traveling without parents, notarized consent from both parents plus details of responsible adult in Zambia. Application process: Parents typically apply for children's visas simultaneously with their own. Each child's visa is processed separately. Fees: Children pay the same visa fees as adults. Tip: Apply for all family members together to ensure visas are processed at the same pace.
Can I use my Zambia visa to visit Victoria Falls from the Zimbabwe side?
A standard Zambia visa is only valid for Zambia - you cannot use it to enter Zimbabwe. However, the KAZA UniVisa solves this perfectly. KAZA UniVisa benefits: Allows unlimited border crossings between Zambia and Zimbabwe for 30 days; perfect for seeing Victoria Falls from both countries; costs approximately $50 USD - same as a single-country visa but covers both. Without KAZA UniVisa: You would need separate Zambia and Zimbabwe visas, plus pay fees for each border crossing. Day trip option: If you only have a Zambia visa, Zimbabwe offers day-tripper visas at the Victoria Falls border post for short visits. Recommendation: Get the KAZA UniVisa if you have any intention of crossing to the Zimbabwe side for activities like the Lookout Cafe, bungee jumping, or the Zimbabwe viewing points.
What vaccinations do I need for Zambia besides yellow fever?
While yellow fever may be required based on your travel history, several other vaccinations are recommended for Zambia. Routine vaccinations: Ensure standard immunizations are current - measles-mumps-rubella, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella, and polio. Recommended: Hepatitis A (food/water transmission risk), Typhoid (especially for adventurous eaters), Hepatitis B (if potential exposure). Consider based on activities: Rabies (recommended for wildlife enthusiasts, remote travel, or extended stays), Cholera (if visiting affected areas). Malaria: Zambia has malaria throughout - prophylaxis is strongly recommended. Options include Malarone, Doxycycline, or Mefloquine. Consult your doctor for the best choice. Recommendation: Visit a travel health clinic 4-6 weeks before departure for personalized advice based on your specific itinerary and health history.
Can I work in Zambia with a tourist visa?
No, Zambia tourist visas strictly prohibit employment. Tourist visas allow only leisure activities: sightseeing, safaris, visiting friends and family, and attending non-commercial events. Business visas permit commercial activities like meetings and conferences but not paid employment. Legal employment requires a Work Permit and Employment Visa, which involve: sponsorship by a registered Zambian employer, proof that the position cannot be filled locally, extensive documentation, and immigration fees. The process takes several months. Penalties: Working illegally risks significant fines, detention, deportation, and future visa bans. Employers face severe penalties for hiring unauthorized workers. Volunteer work: Even unpaid volunteer work with local organizations may require proper authorization - check specific requirements with the organization and immigration.
What are the top places to visit in Zambia?
Victoria Falls: One of the Seven Natural Wonders - the world's largest waterfall by combined height and width. Activities include helicopter flights, bungee jumping, white water rafting, and sunset cruises. South Luangwa National Park: Birthplace of the walking safari, renowned for leopard sightings and authentic bush experiences. Lower Zambezi National Park: Exceptional canoeing safaris, fishing, and wildlife viewing along the mighty Zambezi River. Kafue National Park: Zambia's largest park, incredibly diverse with few visitors - true wilderness experience. Lake Kariba: Massive man-made lake with houseboating, fishing, and unique scenery. Livingstone: Charming colonial town near Victoria Falls with museums, markets, and activities. Lusaka: The capital city with markets, restaurants, and cultural sites. Recommendation: Combine Victoria Falls with at least one safari park for the quintessential Zambia experience.
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