Malawi proposes reciprocal visa policy
Malawi has proposed a reciprocal visa regime that would end visa‑free entry for travellers from many previously exempt markets, including the US and UK. Announced on 21 November by Finance Minister Joseph Mwanamvekha as part of non‑tax measures to bolster the economy, the change requires parliamentary approval and would partly reverse the 2024 addition of 79 countries to Malawi’s visa‑exempt list.
Current fees range from US$50 for a seven‑day transit visa to US$75 for a single‑entry visa valid up to 90 days. The Tourism Ministry expects minimal impact on arrivals, while industry operators warn that higher costs or a cumbersome process could divert itineraries in a competitive Southern and East African market. For context, Namibia introduced reciprocity on 1 April alongside visa‑on‑arrival – and reported hotel occupancies above pre‑COVID levels in the July–October high season.
Source: Tourism Update
