Navigating Zimbabwe VISA Portal and Policies with Travel Guidelines
If you plan to visit Zimbabwe, you may need a visa depending on your nationality, the purpose of your visit, and the duration of your stay. Below is a comprehensive guide to the Zimbabwe visa application process, including types of visas, application methods, and important travel guidelines.
Regulatory Policies
Visa Requirements by Nationality
Zimbabwe has specific visa requirements based on your country of citizenship. Below are the general categories:
| Category | Nationalities | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Visa-Exempt | Selected SADC countries (Botswana, Malawi, Mauritius, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia, etc.) | No visa required for stays up to 90 days |
| Visa on Arrival | Over 40 countries including UAE, Singapore, Turkey, Hong Kong | Visa obtainable at port of entry for USD 30-55 |
| eVisa Required | USA, Canada, UK, Australia, India, China, EU countries | Must apply online before travel |
| Embassy Visa Required | Countries not listed above | Apply at Zimbabwe embassy/consulate |
Important: All visa applications require a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay with at least 2 blank pages.
Note: Fees are subject to change. Always verify current fees on the official Zimbabwe eVisa portal before application.
Types of Zimbabwe Visas
Zimbabwe offers different types of visas based on travel purpose and entry needs:
- Single Entry Visa – Valid for one entry into Zimbabwe for up to 90 days.
- Double Entry Visa – Allows two entries into Zimbabwe, with a maximum stay of 90 days per entry.
- Multiple Entry Visa – Permits multiple entries within a 90-day period. This visa must be obtained in advance.
- Transit Visa – Allows travelers to pass through Zimbabwe for a maximum of 24 hours.
- Business Visa – For individuals visiting Zimbabwe for business purposes, valid for up to 30 days. Must be applied for in advance.
- KAZA UniVisa – A special visa that allows travellers to visit both Zimbabwe and Zambia for tourism purposes, valid for up to 30 days. It can be obtained online or at ports of entry.
Certain nationalities may be eligible for visa-free entry, while others need to apply for a visa before arrival or obtain one on arrival. A list of visa-exempt countries can be found on Zimbabwe’s immigration website.
How to Apply for a Zimbabwe Visa
You can apply for a Zimbabwe visa through two main methods:
A. Online Application (e-Visa)
Travellers from eligible countries can apply for an e-Visa via the official Zimbabwean immigration website. The process includes:
- Registering an account on the e-Visa portal.
- Completing the online visa application form.
- Uploading required documents (passport, photos, flight itinerary, proof of funds, accommodation details, etc.).
- Paying the visa fee using a debit/credit card.
- Receiving a confirmation email with the visa approval.
- Printing the visa and presenting it at the port of entry.
Processing time for an e-Visa is usually 5 to 7 days, and applications should be submitted at least 15 days before travel.
B. Embassy or Consulate Application (Offline Method)
For those who cannot apply online, Zimbabwean visas can be obtained through an embassy or consulate. The process includes:
- Contacting the nearest Zimbabwean diplomatic mission.
- Filling out the visa application form.
- Submitting required documents, including passport, photographs, proof of travel plans, financial proof, and medical certificates (if applicable).
- Paying the visa fee.
- Attending an interview (if required).
- Waiting for visa processing, which may take 5–10 business days.
Visa Requirements
Regardless of the type of visa, applicants generally need to provide:
- A valid passport (minimum six months validity with at least two blank pages).
- A completed visa application form.
- A recent passport-sized photo.
- Flight itinerary or return ticket.
- Proof of financial means (bank statement or sponsorship letter).
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter from a Zimbabwean resident).
- A yellow fever vaccination certificate (if travelling from or transiting through a yellow fever-endemic country).
Additional documents may be required depending on the visa type, such as business letters, police clearance, or travel insurance.
Entry and Immigration Guidelines
Upon arrival in Zimbabwe, travellers must:
- Present valid travel documents at immigration.
- Declare currency amounts exceeding USD 10,000.
- Declare baggage items, ensuring they comply with Zimbabwe’s customs regulations.
- Avoid bringing restricted items such as agricultural products, explosives, and certain medications without approval.
Zimbabwe also has strict environmental policies, including a ban on plastic bags, so travellers should avoid carrying them.
Visa Processing Times & Renewals
Visa processing times depend on the visa type:
- Tourist & Business Visas – 5 to 10 business days.
- Residence & Work Permits – Several weeks to months, depending on application volume.
For visa renewals, travellers should apply at least 30 days before the visa expires to avoid overstaying penalties.
Customs & Duty-Free Allowances
Travellers can bring certain personal goods into Zimbabwe duty-free, including:
- Alcohol (up to 5 litres, with a limit of 2 litres for spirits).
- Tobacco products (cigarettes, cigars, or pipe tobacco).
- Personal belongings (clothing, toiletries, and other essentials in reasonable quantities).
Items exceeding the duty-free allowance may be subject to import taxes.
Special Considerations & Exemptions
- Some nationalities can enter visa-free, depending on diplomatic agreements.
- Special visas may be available for investors, students, and diplomatic personnel.
- Visitors are advised to check for travel advisories and COVID-19 updates before departure.
Visa Fee Structure
Standard Visa Fees (USD)
| Visa Type | Single Entry | Double Entry | Multiple Entry | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa | $30 | $45 | $55 | Valid for 3 months from issue |
| Business Visa | $50 | $70 | $100 | 6 months validity |
| Transit Visa | $20 | N/A | N/A | 7-day maximum stay |
| Visa Extension | $30 | $50 | $80 | Per 30-day extension |
Payment Methods: Visa fees must be paid in US Dollars. Credit cards, cash, and bank transfers are accepted at most entry points and embassies.
Additional Service Fees
| Service | Fee (USD) | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Express Processing | +$30 | 24-48 hours |
| Visa on Arrival | Standard fee + $10 | Immediate |
| Lost Visa Replacement | $25 | 3-5 business days |
Important: Fees are subject to change without prior notice. Always verify current fees with the nearest Zimbabwean embassy or consulate before applying.
Travel Policies
Entry & Exit Requirements
- Valid passport with at least 6 months validity remaining
- Valid Zimbabwe visa (unless exempt)
- Return or onward ticket
- Proof of sufficient funds for duration of stay (minimum $500 or equivalent)
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate if arriving from a yellow fever endemic country
- Completed immigration form (provided during flight or at port of entry)
COVID-19 & Health Regulations
Current Status: All COVID-19 travel restrictions have been lifted. No vaccination certificates, tests, or quarantine required for entry into Zimbabwe as of March 2023.
- Recommended vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Tetanus
- Malaria prophylaxis recommended for travel to certain regions
- Travel health insurance strongly recommended for all visitors
- Healthcare facilities may require upfront payment from foreign nationals
Customs Regulations
Duty-Free Allowances:
- 400 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g tobacco
- 5 liters of wine and 2 liters of spirits
- Reasonable amount of perfume for personal use
- Other goods up to value of $200 USD
Prohibited/Restricted Items:
- Narcotics and illegal drugs
- Firearms and ammunition without permit
- Pornographic material
- Counterfeit currency and goods
- Endangered species products (ivory, rhino horn, etc.)
- Cultural artifacts and archaeological items
Currency Regulations:
- Foreign currency: Unlimited import allowed but must be declared if exceeding $10,000 USD
- Foreign currency export: Limited to amount declared on entry
- Zimbabwean dollars: Export prohibited
Travel Advisory & Safety Information
- Exercise normal precautions in major cities and tourist areas
- Avoid displaying signs of wealth (jewelry, expensive electronics)
- Use registered taxis or reputable ride-sharing services
- Keep photocopies of passport and visa separate from originals
- Register with your embassy if staying long-term
- Road conditions vary; exercise caution when driving, especially at night
- Respect local laws and customs regarding photography (especially government/military installations)
Emergency Contacts: Police (995), Ambulance (994), Fire (993). Tourist Police: +263 242 706 641.
Extensions & Visa Changes
- Tourist visas can be extended at Zimbabwe Department of Immigration offices
- Extension applications should be submitted before current visa expires
- Maximum extension period: 90 days beyond original validity
- Overstaying visas results in fines ($20-200 per day) and possible deportation
- Changing visa status (e.g., tourist to business) requires leaving Zimbabwe and re-entering with appropriate visa
Travel Tips for Zimbabwe
- Currency: The Zimbabwean dollar is the local currency, but USD is widely accepted.
- Health & Safety: It is recommended to have travel insurance and carry necessary medications.
- Transport: Use registered taxis and reliable transportation services for safety.
- Weather: Zimbabwe has a subtropical climate, with the best time to visit being between May and September (dry season).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Quick Overview
Zimbabwe Visa FAQs
- Tourist Visa: For leisure and sightseeing
- Business Visa: Meetings, conferences, trade activities
- Transit Visa: Passing through Zimbabwe
- Multiple Entry Visa: Frequent travelers
Most foreign nationals require a visa, except citizens of visa-exempt countries. Many nationalities are eligible for Visa on Arrival or eVisa.
Yes. Zimbabwe grants Visa on Arrival to citizens of several countries at major ports of entry, subject to documentation and fee payment.
The Zimbabwe eVisa allows travelers to apply online before arrival, reducing processing time at the border.
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Completed visa application form
- Return or onward travel ticket
- Proof of accommodation
- Sufficient financial means
- Single entry: USD 30–50
- Double entry: USD 45–70
- Multiple entry: USD 55–100
Processing times range from 2–7 working days for eVisa applications and immediate issuance for Visa on Arrival.
Most visas allow a stay of up to 30 days, extendable through immigration offices within Zimbabwe.
Yes. Visa extensions can be requested at the Zimbabwe Department of Immigration before the visa expires.
- Invalid or damaged passport
- Insufficient funds
- Unclear travel purpose
- Missing documents