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

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:

  1. Albania
  2. American Samoa
  3. Andorra
  4. Argentina
  5. Aruba
  6. Bhutan
  7. Bosnia and Herzegovina
  8. Bouvet Island
  9. Brunei Darussalam
  10. Cape Verde
  11. Christmas Island
  12. Cocos (Keeling) Islands
  13. Comoros
  14. Cook Islands
  15. Costa Rica
  16. Dominican Republic
  17. Faroe Islands
  18. French Polynesia
  19. French Southern Territories
  20. Greenland
  21. Guam
  22. Guatemala
  23. Guyana
  24. Honduras
  25. Israel
  26. Iceland
  27. Laos
  28. Liberia
  29. Liechtenstein
  30. Macedonia
  31. Madagascar
  32. Micronesia
  33. Moldova
  34. Monaco
  35. Morocco
  36. Netherlands Antilles
  37. New Caledonia
  38. Northern Mariana Islands
  39. Palau
  40. Panama
  41. Papua New Guinea
  42. San Marino
  43. Sandwich Islands
  44. Sao Tome and Principe
  45. South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands
  46. Suriname
  47. Svalbard and Jan Mayen Islands
  48. Switzerland
  49. Turkey
  50. Ukraine
  51. Vatican City State
  52. Virgin Islands
  53. 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

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”.

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