Zambia announces major visa waiver expansion for 53 countries
Zambia has started implementing visa-free entry for nationals of 53 additional countries since January 1, expanding its total visa-exempt nations to 167. This expansion, formalised through Statutory Instrument No. 78 of 2024, builds upon the country's successful 2022 visa liberalisation initiative, which removed restrictions for major tourism markets including the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, and France.
To support this policy shift, the government will strengthen border security with an advanced passenger information system and deploy over 900 additional immigration staff. New immigration control points will also be established nationwide to manage increased visitor flows.
This development comes as regional neighbours take differing approaches to visa policies. While South Africa prepares to launch its Trusted Tour Operator Scheme (TTOS) in January 2025 to facilitate tourism from China and India, Namibia plans to implement new visa requirements for 31 countries starting 1 April 2025.
The initiative aligns with the African Union's vision for enhanced mobility and the African Continental Free Trade Area goals.
Source: BizCommunity
