Lusaka Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Lusaka, the capital city of Zambia, welcomes international travelers through Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (LUN), the country's primary gateway. Entry requirements for Lusaka follow Zambian national immigration policies, which vary depending on your nationality, purpose of visit, and intended length of stay. Zambia has implemented a modernized visa system that includes e-visa options for most nationalities, making the application process more accessible and efficient. The immigration process at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport is generally straightforward, with most travelers experiencing processing times of 30-60 minutes during standard hours. All visitors must present a valid passport with at least six months validity beyond their intended departure date and at least three blank pages for stamps. Depending on your nationality, you may need to obtain a visa in advance, apply for an e-visa online, or purchase a visa on arrival. Business travelers and tourists are subject to different requirements, so it's essential to apply under the correct category. Before traveling to Lusaka, ensure you have proof of accommodation, sufficient funds for your stay, and a return or onward ticket. Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory if arriving from or transiting through yellow fever endemic countries. It's advisable to check current health requirements, including any COVID-19 related protocols, as these can change with little notice. Having all documentation organized and readily accessible will facilitate a smooth entry process.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Zambia's visa policy requires most foreign nationals to obtain a visa before entering Lusaka. The country offers various visa categories including single-entry, double-entry, multiple-entry, day trip visas, and the KAZA UniVisa for regional travel. E-visa applications are available for most nationalities and are the recommended method of application.

Visa-Free Entry

Typically 90 days within 12 months

Very limited visa-free access to Zambia. Only a few African countries enjoy visa exemption

Includes

Passport must be valid for at least 6 months. Some agreements are reciprocal based on diplomatic arrangements. Always confirm current status before travel.

Electronic Visa (e-Visa)

Single-entry (30 days), double-entry (90 days), or multiple-entry (90 days)

Most foreign nationals can apply for an e-visa online before traveling to Lusaka

Includes

United States United Kingdom Canada Australia New Zealand All EU countries China India Japan South Korea Singapore United Arab Emirates Most other countries not listed in visa-free category

How to Apply: Apply online through the official Zambia e-visa portal at evisa.zambiaimmigration.gov.zm. Processing typically takes 3-5 business days but can take up to 14 days. Apply at least 7 days before travel. Upload required documents including passport bio page, passport photo, yellow fever certificate (if applicable), and proof of accommodation.
Cost: Single-entry: USD $50, Double-entry: USD $80, Multiple-entry: USD $150-250 depending on duration. KAZA UniVisa: USD $50 (valid for Zambia and Zimbabwe)

Print the e-visa approval and present it at immigration upon arrival. Payment is made online via credit/debit card. Visa on arrival is also available at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport for most nationalities but e-visa is strongly recommended to avoid delays.

Visa on Arrival

Single-entry (30 days), double-entry (90 days)

Available for most nationalities at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport, though e-visa is preferred

How to Apply: Complete application form at immigration desk upon arrival. Payment in USD cash is preferred. Expect longer processing times, especially during peak hours. Bring exact documents as required for e-visa.

Cost is the same as e-visa. During busy periods, wait times can exceed 2 hours. Some nationalities are NOT eligible for visa on arrival and must obtain visa in advance - check with Zambian embassy. E-visa is strongly recommended over visa on arrival.

Embassy Visa Required

Varies by visa type

Some nationalities must apply at a Zambian embassy or high commission before travel

How to Apply: Contact nearest Zambian diplomatic mission. Submit passport, application form, photos, invitation letter (if applicable), and supporting documents. Processing can take 5-15 business days.

Required for certain nationalities including some African and Middle Eastern countries. Check with your nearest Zambian embassy for specific requirements.

Arrival Process

Upon arrival at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in Lusaka, travelers proceed through immigration control, collect baggage, and pass through customs. The process is generally efficient, though wait times vary depending on flight arrivals and time of day. Having all documents prepared and organized will expedite your entry.

Disembarkation and Health Screening

After leaving the aircraft, follow signs to the arrivals area. You may undergo health screening including temperature checks, particularly during disease outbreaks. Have your yellow fever certificate ready if arriving from endemic areas.

Immigration Control

Join the appropriate queue (Zambian citizens, SADC nationals, or foreign nationals). Present your passport, visa (e-visa printout or visa on arrival application), and arrival card. Immigration officers will verify your documents, may ask questions about your visit, and stamp your passport with entry permission.

Baggage Claim

Proceed to baggage claim area and collect your luggage from the designated carousel. Trolleys are available. Report missing or damaged baggage to your airline's representative immediately.

Customs Declaration

Complete customs declaration form if carrying items to declare. Proceed through customs control via the appropriate channel (goods to declare or nothing to declare). Officers may conduct random baggage inspections.

Exit to Arrivals Hall

After clearing customs, exit to the public arrivals hall where you can arrange transportation, exchange currency, or meet contacts. Official taxi services and car rentals are available.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond intended departure date with minimum 3 blank pages. Damaged passports may result in entry denial.

Visa Documentation

E-visa approval letter (printed), visa on arrival receipt, or visa stamp from embassy. Keep this accessible throughout your journey.

Yellow Fever Certificate

Mandatory if arriving from or transiting through yellow fever endemic countries. Must be valid International Certificate of Vaccination (yellow card). Failure to present may result in entry denial or mandatory vaccination at airport.

Return/Onward Ticket

Proof of departure from Zambia (flight, bus, or train ticket). Immigration may request this to verify you don't intend to overstay.

Proof of Accommodation

Hotel booking confirmation, invitation letter from host, or address where you'll be staying. Required for visa application and may be requested at immigration.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Bank statements, credit cards, or cash to demonstrate you can support yourself during your stay. Rarely requested but advisable to have available.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Apply for e-visa at least 7-10 days before travel to avoid last-minute issues. Print multiple copies of your e-visa approval.

Keep all important documents (passport, visa, yellow fever certificate, hotel bookings) in a secure, easily accessible folder or pouch.

Have USD cash in good condition (newer bills, no tears or excessive wear) for visa on arrival if needed, airport services, and tips. ATMs are available but may have limited cash.

Be polite and patient with immigration officers. Answer questions clearly and honestly. Avoid using your phone during immigration processing.

Arrive during daytime hours if possible, as processing is generally faster and more services are available.

If traveling for business, have invitation letters and supporting documentation readily available, even if not explicitly requested.

Take note of your visa expiry date immediately upon entry and plan your departure accordingly to avoid overstay penalties.

Customs & Duty-Free

Zambia Customs operates at all ports of entry including Kenneth Kaunda International Airport. Travelers must declare all goods exceeding duty-free allowances and prohibited items. The customs process involves completing a declaration form and potentially having your baggage inspected. Failure to declare dutiable goods can result in penalties, confiscation, or prosecution.

Alcohol

1 liter of spirits or 2 liters of wine

Must be 18 years or older. Quantities exceeding this limit are subject to duty. Alcohol must be for personal consumption, not commercial purposes.

Tobacco

400 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 500 grams of tobacco

Must be 18 years or older. Combination of tobacco products cannot exceed equivalent of 400 cigarettes. Must be for personal use.

Perfume

50ml of perfume and 250ml of eau de toilette

Quantities beyond this may be considered commercial and subject to duty.

Currency

No limit on foreign currency, but amounts exceeding USD $5,000 (or equivalent) must be declared

Zambian Kwacha: up to ZMW 20,000 may be imported or exported. Larger amounts require Bank of Zambia authorization. Always declare large amounts to avoid confiscation.

Gifts and Personal Effects

New goods up to USD $500 in value

Used personal effects are generally duty-free if clearly for personal use. Commercial quantities or new goods exceeding value limit are dutiable. Keep receipts for valuable items.

Prohibited Items

Narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances - illegal under Zambian law with severe penalties including imprisonment
Counterfeit currency and goods - subject to confiscation and criminal prosecution
Pornographic materials - prohibited under Zambian decency laws
Endangered species products - including ivory, rhino horn, and products from protected wildlife without CITES permits
Weapons and ammunition - without proper authorization from Zambian authorities
Plants and plant materials - without phytosanitary certificates
Certain food products - meat, dairy, and fresh produce from countries with disease outbreaks

Restricted Items

Prescription medications - must be accompanied by valid prescription and in original packaging. Quantities should be reasonable for personal use during stay
Professional equipment - cameras, laptops, and equipment for commercial use may require temporary import permits or carnets
Drones and radio equipment - require authorization from Zambia Information and Communications Technology Authority (ZICTA)
Firearms for hunting - require hunting licenses and import permits obtained in advance through Zambia Wildlife Authority (ZAWA)
Live animals and pets - require import permits, health certificates, and rabies vaccination documentation
Currency over declaration limits - must be declared on arrival and departure

Health Requirements

Zambia has specific health requirements for entry to protect public health. Yellow fever vaccination is the primary mandatory requirement for travelers from endemic areas. Other vaccinations are recommended for traveler health but not required for entry. Stay informed about current health advisories and requirements.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever - Mandatory for travelers aged 9 months and older arriving from or transiting (for more than 12 hours) through yellow fever endemic countries. Must present valid International Certificate of Vaccination (yellow card). Countries include most of sub-Saharan Africa and parts of South America. Vaccination must be administered at least 10 days before travel to be valid.

Recommended Vaccinations

Hepatitis A - Recommended for all travelers due to food and water contamination risk
Typhoid - Recommended, especially for travelers visiting rural areas or eating outside major hotels
Hepatitis B - Recommended for travelers who may have intimate contact with locals or require medical procedures
Malaria prophylaxis - Lusaka is in a malaria zone. Antimalarial medication is strongly recommended year-round. Consult travel medicine specialist for appropriate medication
Rabies - Consider for travelers with extensive outdoor activities, working with animals, or in areas with limited medical facilities
Routine vaccinations - Ensure up-to-date on MMR, DPT, polio, and seasonal influenza
COVID-19 - Stay current with recommended doses per your country's guidelines

Health Insurance

Travel health insurance with medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended as medical facilities in Zambia are limited, especially for serious conditions. Many private clinics require payment upfront or proof of insurance before treatment. Ensure your policy covers medical evacuation to South Africa or your home country, as this may be necessary for serious conditions. Carry your insurance documents and emergency contact numbers at all times.

Current Health Requirements: Health entry requirements can change rapidly, particularly regarding COVID-19 and emerging infectious diseases. Check the Zambia Ministry of Health website and your country's travel health advisory 1-2 weeks before departure and again 48 hours before travel. Currently, most COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted, but requirements may be reinstated. Some countries may require negative COVID-19 tests or vaccination proof for return entry. Register with your embassy and monitor their health and safety updates throughout your stay.

Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Zambia Department of Immigration

Official immigration authority - Haile Selassie Avenue, Lusaka

Website: www.zambiaimmigration.gov.zm | E-visa portal: evisa.zambiaimmigration.gov.zm | For visa inquiries, extensions, and immigration matters | Phone: +260 211 253 243

Emergency Services

Police: 991 | Ambulance: 992 | Fire: 993 | General Emergency: 999

Response times vary. For medical emergencies, private ambulance services may be faster. Keep your hotel's contact information for assistance coordinating emergency services.

Kenneth Kaunda International Airport

Airport information and assistance

Phone: +260 211 271 194 | Located approximately 27km northeast of Lusaka city center | Airport code: LUN

Your Embassy or Consulate

Contact your country's diplomatic mission in Lusaka for citizen services

Register with your embassy upon arrival for extended stays. Most embassies are located in the diplomatic area east of city center. Keep emergency contact numbers accessible.

Tourism Council of Zambia

Tourist information and assistance

Century House, Cairo Road, Lusaka | Phone: +260 211 229 087 | Email: info@zambiatourism.com | Website: www.zambiatourism.com

Zambia Revenue Authority (Customs)

Customs inquiries and duty information

Phone: +260 211 381 000 | Website: www.zra.org.zm | For questions about customs duties, prohibited items, and declarations

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children must have their own passport with at least 6 months validity. Zambia has strict requirements for minors (under 18) traveling: If traveling with both parents, carry child's birth certificate showing both parents' names. If traveling with one parent, carry notarized consent letter from absent parent plus copy of absent parent's passport/ID. If traveling alone or with non-parents, carry notarized consent letters from BOTH parents, copies of parents' passports/IDs, and birth certificate. For adopted children, carry adoption papers. For children in guardianship, carry legal guardianship documents. Unaccompanied minors require special airline arrangements. These requirements are strictly enforced to prevent child trafficking. Failure to present proper documentation may result in entry denial.

Traveling with Pets

Importing pets to Zambia requires advance planning. Required documents: Valid import permit from Zambia Department of Veterinary and Livestock Development (apply at least 30 days before travel), current rabies vaccination certificate (administered at least 30 days but not more than 12 months before travel), veterinary health certificate issued within 7 days of travel, microchip identification recommended. Dogs and cats must be at least 4 months old. Pets from rabies-free countries may have different requirements. Upon arrival, pets undergo inspection by veterinary officers. Quarantine is generally not required if all documentation is in order. Airlines have specific requirements for pet travel in cabin or cargo. Contact Zambia Department of Veterinary Services well in advance: +260 211 253 270.

Extended Stays and Visa Extensions

Tourist visas typically allow 30-90 days. To extend your stay, apply at Department of Immigration offices in Lusaka before your current visa expires. Required: valid passport, current visa, completed extension application form, proof of sufficient funds, accommodation proof, reasons for extension, passport photos, and fee (approximately USD $50-80). Apply at least 7 days before expiry. Overstaying results in fines of USD $20 per day plus possible deportation and future entry bans. For stays exceeding 90 days or multiple entries, consider applying for temporary employment permit, business visa, or residence permit depending on purpose. Consult immigration office or legal advisor for long-term stay options.

Business Travelers

Business visitors should apply for business visa (not tourist visa) if conducting business activities, attending meetings, or representing a company. Required documents: invitation letter from Zambian company/organization on letterhead stating purpose and duration, company registration documents of inviting entity, proof of business registration in home country, detailed itinerary. Business visa allows 30-90 days and may be single or multiple entry. For work requiring payment in Zambia, a work permit is mandatory (separate from business visa). Business travelers should carry business cards, company documentation, and proof of accommodation. Multiple-entry business visas are available for frequent travelers.

Journalists and Media Personnel

Journalists, photographers, and film crews must obtain media accreditation from Zambia Information and Communications Technology Authority (ZICTA) before arrival. Required: formal application letter, assignment letter from media organization, detailed project description, itinerary, crew list, equipment list. Processing takes 2-4 weeks. Media personnel must also obtain appropriate visa (usually business or special visa). Filming in certain locations requires additional permits. Unauthorized journalism activities may result in detention, deportation, and equipment confiscation. Contact ZICTA: +260 211 237 725.

Students and Volunteers

Students attending educational institutions or volunteers working with NGOs require student permits or volunteer permits (not tourist visas). Required: acceptance letter from educational institution or volunteer organization, proof of financial support, police clearance certificate, medical certificate, passport photos. Apply through Zambian embassy before travel or at Department of Immigration in Lusaka. Processing can take 4-8 weeks. Student/volunteer permits are typically issued for duration of program up to 1 year and may be renewable. Working on tourist visa is illegal and results in deportation.