Zambia extends visa waiver policy to 53 new countries

From January 2025, citizens of 53 countries will no longer need a visa to travel to Zambia.

In a move aimed at boosting its tourist appeal and stimulating foreign investment, the Zambian government has just announced that it will be extending its visa-free policy to 53 new countries.

Speaking to the press on December 18, Zambia’s Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security, Jack Mwiimbu, said that the visa waiver would take effect on January 1, 2025.

The Minister added that this measure was in line with President Hakainde Hichilema’s call to promote Zambia as an attractive destination for tourism, business, trade and investment.

Jack Mwiimbu, who expects the number of international tourist arrivals per year to rise to three million by 2026, was optimistic that this target would be achieved, judging by the record number of tourist arrivals in 2023, which stands at over 1.5 million.

Zambia visa waiver: the 53 new qualified countries

As the Zambian Ministry of Information and Media explains, “this development brings the total number of countries whose nationals are exempted from visa requirements to one hundred and sixty-seven (167). The visa waiver will unlock economic opportunities through tourism, trade in goods and services, as well as employment creation.”

Here is the list of 53 countries and territories that will benefit from visa-free entry to Zambia from January 1, 2025:

Towards the introduction of an advanced passenger information system

Zambia offers its visa-required visitors an e-Visa system, a convenient digital solution that simplifies entry formalities for visitors. Accessible online, this service enables travelers to apply for and receive their visa without having to visit an embassy or consulate.

In just a few simple steps, applicants can complete their form, upload the required documents and pay the corresponding fees. The e-visa is designed to make the process faster and more transparent, helping to improve the visitor experience while supporting the goals of modernizing and growing Zambia’s tourism sector.

In its communication, Zambia’s Ministry of Information and Media explains that immigration services are currently planning to introduce “an advanced passenger information system which will allow Immigration Officers to work ahead of time to help prevent inadmissible travelers from entering the country.”

“While the government is committed to opening doors to international travellers, we are also mindful of the need to maintain national security. This is the reason why the department of immigration is focusing on implementing a mix of pre-entry and post-entry migration management measures,” adds Jack Mwiimbu.

Visa-free countries for Zambia

By October 2022, Zambia lifted its visa requirements for European tourists.

Although the authorities now announce a total of 167 visa-free countries and territories in Zambia, VisasNews lists “only” 165: