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Do US citizens need a visa for Zambia?

U.S. Passport holders do not require a visa to visit Zambia. You must carry the original or a certified copy of your passport and immigration permit at all times.



As of 2026, United States citizens do not need a visa to enter Zambia for tourism or short-term business visits. The Zambian government officially waived visa requirements for American passport holders (among several other nationalities) to bolster tourism and economic ties. Upon arrival, US tourists are typically granted entry for up to 90 days within a one-year period. While the visa itself is no longer required, travelers must still present a valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity and at least two blank pages. Additionally, you may be asked to provide proof of onward travel (a return flight ticket) and evidence of sufficient funds to support your stay. It is worth noting that while the entry is "visa-free," you are still subject to immigration controls, and if you plan to work, volunteer, or stay beyond the 90-day limit, you must apply for the appropriate permits through the Zambian Department of Immigration or the nearest embassy before your journey begins.

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U.S. Passport holders do not require a visa to visit Zambia. You must carry the original or a certified copy of your passport and immigration permit at all times.

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As of July 2023, holders of a United States passport may travel to 185 countries and territories without a travel visa, or with a visa on arrival. The United States passport currently ranks seventh in terms of travel freedom (tied with the passport of Lithuania), according to the Henley Passport Index.

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Zambia is rated Level 1 for security (exercise normal precautions) and has few major security concerns. Visitors can avoid criminal activity by utilizing common sense measures provided below. Political activity, especially during national and local elections, can lead to civil unrest and low-level violence.

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As of November 2023, Zambian passport holders can travel visa free to 45 countries and territories:
  • Angola.
  • Antigua and Barbuda.
  • Bahamas.
  • Bangladesh.
  • Barbados.
  • Belize.
  • Benin.
  • Bermuda.


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All visitors are required to obtain an e-visa before departing for Kenya. If you require a multiple-entry visa, be sure to apply well in advance of travel. Required for Entry: Passport with at least two blank pages, six months' validity, and a Kenyan e-visa.

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In the major towns of Zambia, the tap water is purified and therefore safe to drink. When travelling to more remote areas, it is advisable to boil the water first or drink bottled water.

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Zambia's currency is the Kwacha and is available at airports, hotels, ATMs and exchange offices. Larger shops, hotels, restaurants and tour operators increasingly accept major credit cards. Use ATMs or banks and bureaux de change to exchange money.

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Tourists and any person visiting friends and/or relatives in Zambia coming into the country without evidence of a negative SARS CoV2 PCR test conducted within the previous 72 hours, will not be allowed into the county.

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