Zambia Doubles Visa Fees for Single and Double Entries as of January 2026, Yet Maintains Open Travel
Starting from 1 January 2026, Zambia’s Department of Immigration has introduced revised visa fees, significantly impacting travellers from visa-required countries. Announced by Zambia Tourism, the new fee structure sees the cost of single-entry and double-entry visas double compared to previous rates, reflecting a strategic update within the country’s broader immigration and border management framework.
The updated fees apply across standard tourist visa categories and are effective until further notice. Specifically, a single-entry visa now costs USD 50, up from USD 25, granting travellers one entry within a 90-day validity period. Meanwhile, the double-entry visa price has risen to USD 80 from USD 40, allowing two separate entries over the same duration.
For those requiring more flexibility, the multiple-entry visa fee has seen a modest increase from USD 75 to USD 80. This visa permits unlimited entries within 90 days and is exclusively issued by Immigration Headquarters through the official e-visa platform, underscoring Zambia’s move toward streamlined, digitalised visa processing for complex travel needs.
Not all fees have changed, however. The popular KAZA Univisa, which enables seamless travel between Zambia and Zimbabwe and includes day trips to Botswana via the Kazungula Border, retains its fee at USD 50. This visa remains unavailable online and can be obtained only at select entry points such as Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (LUN) in Lusaka, Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport (LVI) in Livingstone, and key border posts.
In addition, the Day-Tripper Visa continues to be offered at a fee of USD 10 for travellers entering Zambia for less than 24 hours and exiting through the same border post. This visa facilitates short visits and remains available at Victoria Falls Border and Kazungula Border Control.
Visa validity rules maintain consistency: single, double, and multiple-entry visas are valid for 90 days from first entry. An exception exists for US nationals, who benefit from a reciprocal agreement allowing multiple-entry visas valid for up to three years.
Despite the fee increases, Zambia upholds one of Africa’s most liberal visa regimes, with citizens of 167 countries enjoying visa-free entry as of 2025. This open policy supports Zambia’s strong appeal as a traveller-friendly destination, especially for those exploring the KAZA Transfrontier Conservation Area, home to renowned attractions like Victoria Falls, Chobe National Park, and Hwange National Park.
For African tourism stakeholders, these changes reinforce the importance of clear communication with clients regarding updated visa costs and requirements. Ensuring travellers are well-informed before departure will be vital as Zambia continues to balance immigration control with its commitment to welcoming international visitors.
Prospective visitors should stay alert to any further updates, as immigration policies and fees may be adjusted without prior notice, emphasizing the need for ongoing vigilance in travel planning to Zambia.
