Zimbabwe Visa on Arrival 2026 — Complete Guide

Zimbabwe classifies all countries into three categories for visa purposes:

Category A — Visa-Free (No Visa Required)

Citizens of these countries can enter Zimbabwe without a visa, typically for stays up to 90 days. This includes most SADC member states:

See our full visa-free countries list for the complete Category A list.

Category B — Visa on Arrival Available

Citizens of these countries can obtain a visa at the port of entry (visa on arrival) or apply in advance via e-visa or embassy. This includes most Western countries:

Category C — Visa Required in Advance

Citizens of these countries must apply for a visa at a Zimbabwe embassy before travel. Visa on arrival is not available. This category includes a smaller number of countries. Check with your nearest Zimbabwe embassy if your country is not listed above.

Fees are in US dollars. Some nationalities (e.g., British, Canadian) may be charged different rates. Confirm the exact fee for your nationality at the border or on the e-visa website.

• Valid passport — at least 6 months' validity remaining and 2 blank pages
• Return or onward ticket — proof of departure from Zimbabwe
• Proof of accommodation — hotel booking confirmation, safari lodge booking, or host's address
• Sufficient funds — evidence you can support yourself during your stay (bank statement, credit card, or cash)
• Visa fee in US dollars cash — $30/$45/$50 depending on visa type. Bring exact change where possible.
• Yellow fever certificate — required if arriving from or transiting through a yellow fever-endemic country

The KAZA UniVisa (Kavango-Zambezi) is a joint visa for Zimbabwe and Zambia, designed for tourists visiting the Victoria Falls area. It allows unlimited crossings between the two countries during the validity period.

Key Facts

• Cost: $50 USD
• Validity: 30 days from date of issue
• Entries: Unlimited crossings between Zimbabwe and Zambia
• Eligible nationalities: Approximately 40 countries (including USA, UK, Canada, Australia, most EU nations, Japan)
• Available at: Harare Airport, Victoria Falls Airport, Victoria Falls border post, Kazungula border post, and corresponding Zambian entry points

Why Choose the KAZA UniVisa?

If you plan to visit Victoria Falls from both the Zimbabwe and Zambia sides, the KAZA UniVisa ($50) is cheaper than buying separate visas for each country ($30 + $50 = $80). It also saves time at the border on subsequent crossings.

Zimbabwe offers an electronic visa (e-visa) system for travellers who prefer to arrange their visa before arrival.

How to Apply for an E-Visa

1. Visit the official Zimbabwe e-visa website: www.evisa.gov.zw
2. Create an account and select your visa type
3. Upload required documents (passport scan, photo, itinerary, accommodation proof)
4. Pay the visa fee online (credit/debit card)
5. Wait for processing (2-5 business days)
6. Download and print your e-visa approval letter

E-Visa vs Visa on Arrival

Recommendation: Apply for the e-visa if time allows. It provides certainty and faster processing at the border. However, visa on arrival works perfectly well for most Category B nationals.

Airports

• Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport (HRE) — Harare (main international airport)
• Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport (BUQ) — Bulawayo
• Victoria Falls Airport (VFA) — Victoria Falls

Major Land Border Posts

Opening hours may change. Arrive well before closing time, especially at Beitbridge which can have very long queues.

1. Carry USD cash. Bring enough for the visa fee in crisp, undamaged notes. Notes older than 2006 or with pen marks/tears may be rejected.
2. Have exact change if possible. Change may not always be available at border posts.
3. Print your hotel/accommodation confirmation. Immigration officers may ask to see it.
4. Have your return/onward ticket ready. A printout is ideal, but a confirmation on your phone may be accepted.
5. Arrive early at land borders. Beitbridge (the South Africa-Zimbabwe border) is notorious for long queues, especially during holiday periods. Arrive as early as possible.
6. Consider the KAZA UniVisa if visiting Victoria Falls and want to see both the Zimbabwe and Zambia sides.
7. Check yellow fever requirements. If you are arriving from or transiting through a yellow fever-endemic country (including some connecting flights), you need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate.
8. Keep your visa receipt. You may be asked for it when leaving the country.

• Single Entry: $30
• Double Entry: $45
• KAZA UniVisa: $50
• Multiple Entry: $55
• Max Stay: 90 days
• Payment: USD cash preferred
• E-Visa: Available online