Zambia's Department of Immigration, effective 1 January 2026, has implemented revised visa fees, a change announced by Zambia Tourism that will significantly impact travelers from visa-required countries. This strategic update is part of the nation's broader immigration and border management framework, with standard tourist visa categories seeing their single-entry and double-entry visa costs double compared to previous rates. These updated fees are in effect until further notice.

Specifically, a single-entry visa now costs USD 50, an increase from USD 25, allowing one entry within a 90-day validity period. The price for a double-entry visa has risen to USD 80 from USD 40, facilitating two separate entries over the same duration. For those requiring greater flexibility, the multiple-entry visa fee has increased modestly from USD 75 to USD 80. This visa permits unlimited entries within 90 days and is exclusively issued by Immigration Headquarters via the official e-visa platform, highlighting Zambia's shift towards streamlined, digitalized visa processing for more complex travel needs.

However, not all visa fees have been adjusted. The widely used KAZA Univisa, which allows for seamless travel between Zambia and Zimbabwe and includes day trips to Botswana via the Kazungula Border, maintains its fee at USD 50. This particular visa remains unavailable online and can only be acquired at designated entry points, including Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (LUN) in Lusaka, Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport (LVI) in Livingstone, and key border posts. Additionally, the Day-Tripper Visa continues to be offered at USD 10 for travelers entering Zambia for less than 24 hours and exiting through the same border post. This visa caters to short visits and is available at Victoria Falls Border and Kazungula Border Control.

Visa validity rules remain consistent: single, double, and multiple-entry visas are valid for 90 days from the date of first entry. A notable exception applies to US nationals, who benefit from a reciprocal agreement permitting multiple-entry visas valid for up to three years. Despite the recent fee increases, Zambia continues to uphold one of Africa's most liberal visa regimes, with citizens from 167 countries enjoying visa-free entry as of 2025. This open policy reinforces Zambia's strong appeal as a traveler-friendly destination, particularly for those exploring the KAZA Transfrontier Conservation Area, home to renowned attractions such as Victoria Falls, Chobe National Park, and Hwange National Park.

For African tourism stakeholders, these changes underscore the critical importance of clear and timely communication with clients regarding the updated visa costs and requirements. Ensuring that travelers are well-informed before their departure will be crucial as Zambia endeavors to balance robust immigration control with its enduring commitment to welcoming international visitors. Prospective visitors are advised to remain vigilant for any further updates, as immigration policies and fees may be subject to adjustment without prior notice, necessitating ongoing attentiveness in travel planning to Zambia.