Zambia Waives Visa Requirements For 53 Countries To Boost Tourism
At a press conference, Hon. Jack Jacob Mwiimbu SC., MP, Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security, said that visa restrictions for citizens of 53 countries would no longer be required, further solidifying Zambia's position as a top travel, business, trade and investment destination. This announcement marked a major milestone in the government's continuous efforts to open Zambia to the outside world for improved economic growth while maintaining national security.
An important move for travel and economic development
President Hichilema's demand that Zambia diversify its economy and draw tourists from abroad is directly addressed by the visa waiver. In addition to increasing tourism, the government hopes to open up new trade and investment opportunities by reducing entrance obstacles. The Minister emphasized that through tourism, commerce in goods and services and job development, this action will open up substantial economic potential for the country.
Honourable Mwiimbu added that the waiver is part of the government's ongoing efforts to position Zambia as a major player in the global economy. The Minister mentioned that in order to make sure that the visa waiver is in line with both national security concerns and the long-term expansion of Zambia's tourism industry, the Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security, working with the Ministry of Tourism, had carried out extensive stakeholder consultations.
Zambia waives visa requirements for 53 countries to boost tourism
National security and immigration management
The government is well aware of the need to preserve national security while fostering industry and tourism. Regarding the upcoming integration of an Advanced Passenger Information System (APIS) into Zambia's Immigration Management System (ZIMS), Mr. Mwiimbu underscored the Government's commitment to protecting the nation's borders. He clarified that this system will enable immigration officials to conduct pre-screening of visitors before they arrive in Zambia, assisting in the identification of those who are ineligible to enter the country.
"This cutting-edge system will assist prevent dangers and ensure that we can handle the growing amount of travelers efficiently, " Mr. Mwiimbu said. "Our goal is to achieve the ideal balance between making travel convenient and making sure that our national security is maintained".
Additionally, he highlighted the Government's recent initiatives to improve migration control. In an effort to improve post-entry management and overcome previous manpower shortages, the Department of Immigration has hired 193 border guards and 714 immigration assistants over the last two years.
With the gazetting of two new border controls at Lonshi and Lumi and four new internal immigration controls in Chongwe, Maamba, Kalumbila and Chililabombwe, the Department of Immigration has also increased its geographic reach. The enforcement of immigration rules will be improved by these measures, especially in underserved areas.
Zambia visa waiver - 53 new qualified countries
Zambia provides its tourists with an e-Visa system, a practical online alternative that streamlines entrance requirements. Travelers can use this online service to apply for a visa without physically visiting an embassy or consulate.
The following 53 countries and territories will be able to enter Zambia without a visa as of January 1, 2025:
- Albania
- American Samoa
- Andorra
- Argentina
- Aruba
- Bhutan
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Bouvet Island
- Brunei Darussalam
- Cape Verde
- Christmas Island
- Cocos (Keeling) Islands
- Comoros
- Cook Islands
- Costa Rica
- Dominican Republic
- Faroe Islands
- French Polynesia
- French Southern Territories
- Greenland
- Guam
- Guatemala
- Guyana
- Honduras
- Israel
- Iceland
- Laos
- Liberia
- Liechtenstein
- Macedonia
- Madagascar
- Micronesia
- Moldova
- Monaco
- Morocco
- Netherlands Antilles
- New Caledonia
- Northern Mariana Islands
- Palau
- Panama
- Papua New Guinea
- San Marino
- Sandwich Islands
- Sao Tome and Principe
- South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands
- Suriname
- Svalbard and Jan Mayen Islands
- Switzerland
- Turkey
- Ukraine
- Vatican City State
- Virgin Islands
- Wallis and Futuna Islands
This extension of the visa-free policy is in line with Zambia's overarching objectives of increasing the nation's economic integration and international accessibility.
Zambia provides its tourists with an e-Visa system
A vision for the future
The Government is still focused on making sure that the visa waiver serves as a strategic initiative to establish Zambia as a major international travel destination for both business and pleasure, in addition to being a vehicle for economic growth. Mr. Mwiimbu underlined that Zambia's Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security is dedicated to allowing lawful travel while continuing to be watchful for threats to the country’s security.
“This policy marks a critical step in realizing Zambia’s vision of becoming a leading hub for international tourism, trade and investment" said Honourable Mwiimbu. "We will continue to foster opportunities for growth while prioritizing the safety and well-being of all Zambians”.