Your Guide to Zambia Tourist Visas in 2025

Planning a trip to Zambia? By reading this, you’ll learn everything from standard visa categories and the step-by-step e-Visa process to Zambia’s recent visa-free expansion, the KAZA Univisa, extension options, special rules for minors and diplomatic passport perks. Each section links to authoritative sources so you can book your journey with confidence.

Types of Visas Available for Zambia

Zambia offers several entry permits, each tailored to different travel purposes according to the Visa policy of Zambia.

• Tourist Visa: Valid for up to 90 days in a single visit.
• Business Visa: Geared toward meetings, conferences or commercial activities.
• Transit Visa: For travelers passing through Zambia to another destination.
• KAZA Univisa: Provides multiple entries between Zambia and Zimbabwe plus a one-day pass to Botswana via the Kazungula border.

KAZA Univisa Explained

The KAZA Univisa is perfect if you plan to experience Victoria Falls from both sides or join a multi-country safari, according to the KAZA Univisa official website.
1. Applies only at select border posts and online.
2. Offers stays of up to 30 days and multiple entries between Zambia and Zimbabwe.
3. Includes a single-entry day pass into Botswana (via the Kazungula bridge) without a separate visa.

How to Apply for Your Zambia e-Visa

Gone are the days of embassy queues. Zambia’s online portal lets you submit your application in minutes:

1. Create an account on the iVisa Zambia e-Visa portal.
2. Complete the digital application form—double-check spelling and validity dates.
3. Upload scans of your passport bio-page and a recent passport-style photo.
4. Pay the prescribed fee with a credit or debit card.
5. Wait for processing—most approvals arrive within 5 business days.

Tip: Save your e-Visa PDF to your phone and print a copy to present at the border.

Zambia’s New Visa-Free Entry Expansion

As of January 2025, Zambia lifted visa requirements for citizens of 53 additional nations, opening the country to short-term tourists from all continents, as reported by eTurboNews.
“Simplifying entry rules encourages more visitors to discover Zambia’s landscapes.” – Travel Weekly

Extending Your Stay and Overstay Penalties

If you fall in love with Zambia’s wildlife or take longer on your canoe trip down the Zambezi, know these rules:

• You can extend a tourist visa once for up to 30 extra days by visiting any immigration office in Lusaka, Livingstone or Ndola, as detailed in the Zambia Immigration document on visa categories.
• Overstaying without extension can lead to fines, deportation or a ban on future entry.

To apply for an extension:
1. Fill out the extension form at the immigration office.
2. Present your passport and proof of onward travel.
3. Pay the extension fee.

Special Rules for Minors

Traveling with kids? Zambia’s regulations include exceptions and extra paperwork:

• According to the U.S. Department of State country information on Zambia, children under 16 from visa-exempt countries can enter visa-free when accompanied by both parents.
• Unaccompanied minors or those with only one parent must carry a notarized consent letter from the absent guardian.
• Bring copies of birth certificates to prove parent-child relationships.

Diplomatic and Official Passport Privileges

Holders of diplomatic or official passports from select states benefit from extra flexibility:

• Several bilateral agreements grant visa-free access or reduced fees for official visits.
• Always confirm your status with the nearest Zambian mission before traveling.

Common diplomatic exemptions include:
– African Union member states
– Commonwealth countries
– Selected bilateral partners in Asia and Europe

Ready to Make Your Move?

Whether you’ll roam national parks, paddle the mighty Zambezi or stand in awe at Victoria Falls, Zambia’s more accessible visa policies make it easier than ever. Review the options above, check official links, then pack your bags—it’s time for your Zambian adventure to begin.