Zambia Visa for Indians — Complete Guide 2026: e-Visa, Tourist, Business, Transit and KAZA UniVisa
Zambia Visa for
Indians — Complete Guide 2026
Everything Indian passport holders need to know about the Zambia e-Visa — Tourist, Business, Transit and KAZA UniVisa types, photograph and document requirements, Victoria Falls safari planning, and RTH World Tour Packages assistance at Rs.3,999 for a 30-day single entry.
Zambia is one of Africa's most compelling and least-crowded safari destinations — a landlocked Southern African nation that shares the magnificent Victoria Falls with Zimbabwe, harbours some of the continent's finest wildlife in South Luangwa National Park and the Lower Zambezi, and offers Indian travellers an authentically wild African experience without the mass-tourism congestion of East Africa's more famous circuits. The roar of Victoria Falls — the world's largest curtain of falling water — the sight of leopards draped over leadwood trees in South Luangwa, and the canoe safaris of the Lower Zambezi with elephants crossing at sunset are experiences that leave a permanent mark on every visitor.
Indian passport holders require a visa to visit Zambia. There is no visa-on-arrival facility as a standard service and Zambia is not visa-free for Indian nationals. However, the application process is straightforward — Indian travellers can apply for the Zambia e-Visa entirely online at the official Zambia Department of Immigration portal eservices.zambiaimmigration.gov.zm, without visiting the embassy. The tourist e-Visa costs USD 25 for single entry (approximately Rs.2,100), is processed within 3 to 5 working days, and permits a stay of up to 90 days. Upon e-Visa approval, you receive an approval letter by email which you print and present at the Zambia port of entry, where a visa sticker or endorsement is placed in your passport and the fee is paid on arrival.
Zambia also offers the KAZA UniVisa — a joint visa for both Zambia and Zimbabwe that allows multiple crossings between the two countries and day trips to Botswana, making it the ideal option for Indian travellers combining Victoria Falls (which straddles the Zambia-Zimbabwe border) with a broader Southern Africa itinerary. Our team at RTH World Tour Packages processes the Zambia single-entry 30-day visa at a transparent fee of Rs.3,999 — covering the complete documentation preparation and application support.
Zambia Visa Types for Indian Nationals — Tourist, Business, Transit and KAZA UniVisa
Zambia offers several visa categories to suit different travel purposes. Understanding which type applies to your journey ensures a smooth application and correct presentation at the border:
Tourist e-Visa — Single, Double or Multiple Entry
The standard visa for Indian travellers visiting Zambia for wildlife safaris, Victoria Falls, national parks, cultural visits, or visiting friends and family. Applied for online at eservices.zambiaimmigration.gov.zm.
- Stay: Up to 90 days per entry
- Validity: 90 days from date of issue
- Entry types: Single (USD 25) / Double (USD 40) / Multiple (USD 75)
- Processing: 3–5 working days
- On arrival: Present approval letter, pay fee, receive visa sticker
- Extension: Apply for Visiting Permit at nearest immigration office if required beyond 90 days
Business e-Visa — Visitor
For Indian nationals attending meetings, conferences, seminars, or pursuing business interests in Zambia. Limited to 30 days per visit regardless of entry type selected.
- Stay: Up to 30 days per entry (maximum 30 days in any 12-month period as business visitor)
- Entry types: Single / Double / Multiple
- Fee: Same as tourist — USD 25 (single entry)
- Additional requirements: Invitation letter from Zambian host company; cover letter from Indian employer; host company registration certificate
- Extension: Apply for Temporary Employment Permit if business stay extends beyond 30 days
Transit Visa
For Indian nationals transiting through Zambia overland — passing through the country to reach a neighbouring destination such as Zimbabwe, Botswana, Tanzania, or Malawi.
- Stay: Maximum 7 days
- Validity: Valid for 7 days only from issue date
- Entry: Single entry only
- No invitation letter required
- Onward ticket required: Evidence of onward journey to a third country must be shown
- Note: Transit via Zambia airports (air transit) does not require a transit visa if remaining airside
KAZA UniVisa — Kavango Zambezi
The KAZA UniVisa covers both Zambia and Zimbabwe in one visa — the ideal option for Indian travellers visiting Victoria Falls, which spans both sides of the border, and who want to explore both countries on one trip.
- Stay: Up to 30 days; multiple crossings between Zambia and Zimbabwe permitted
- Fee: USD 50
- Botswana: Also covers day trips to Botswana through Kazungula Border
- Available: Online (e-Visa), Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (Lusaka), Harry Mwaanga Nkumbula Airport (Livingstone), Victoria Falls Border Control, Kazungula Border Control
- Note: Valid within the KAZA transfrontier area only — not for travel beyond Zambia and Zimbabwe
A Day Tripper Visa is issued at the border (not available online) to tourists visiting Zambia for less than 24 hours who exit through the same port. The fee is USD 10. This is relevant for Indian travellers who are based in Zimbabwe (Livingstone/Victoria Falls) and wish to cross to the Zambian side of the falls for the day and return. It is currently available only at Victoria Falls Border Control and Kazungula Border Control.
For Indian travellers coming directly to Zambia for a proper visit — even a short one — the standard Tourist e-Visa is the correct option, not the Day Tripper.
Passport Requirements and Rules
Zambia enforces specific passport validity and condition requirements that are checked both at the e-Visa application stage and at the port of entry. Ensure full compliance before applying:
Validity Requirement
- Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the last intended date of departure from Zambia — not merely from the date of entry
- This means: if you plan to be in Zambia until 1 June, your passport must be valid until at least 1 December of the same year
- Indian immigration also checks outbound passport validity — ensure 6 months validity beyond your return date to India
- Passports expiring within the 6-month window from your Zambia departure date will be refused entry even with a valid e-Visa approval letter
Blank Pages
- Minimum 2 blank pages for visa stamp — some sources indicate 3 blank pages are preferred at certain ports of entry; carry at least 3 clean pages to be safe
- Pages must be marked with the words "VISA" or "ENTRIES" — endorsement pages do not count
- Zambia issues a physical visa sticker or endorsement on arrival upon presentation of the approval letter — this occupies one blank page
- If fewer than 2 blank pages remain, renew your passport before applying — the e-Visa is linked to your passport number
Passport Condition and Amendments
- The passport must be the original — photocopies are not accepted as travel documents at the border
- Passports must have no alterations, handwritten amendments, or corrections in the data pages — any such modification renders the passport invalid for Zambia entry
- Passports with water damage, torn or detached pages, missing covers, or illegible biographical data will be refused at the border
- If your name has changed since the passport was issued, carry legal supporting documents (marriage certificate, court name-change order)
Biometric Passport and Data Consistency
- Zambia's border system reads machine-readable passport data — ensure your passport is a biometric e-Passport (chip symbol on cover), standard for all Indian passports issued after 2013
- All details on your e-Visa application must exactly match your passport — name, date of birth, passport number, nationality, expiry date
- If you renew your passport after obtaining the e-Visa approval letter, re-apply for a new e-Visa on your new passport number before travelling
Photograph Requirements — Detailed Specifications
Zambia's photograph requirements apply to both the online e-Visa digital upload and physical embassy applications. Non-compliant photographs cause delays and rejections — review these specifications carefully:
Physical Photos — Size and Print Quality
- Size: 35 mm wide x 45 mm high (without border)
- Two identical recent colour photographs required
- Taken within the last 3 months — Zambia specifies 3 months, stricter than many countries' 6-month rule
- Printed on professional photographic paper — matte or semi-gloss; no inkjet prints
- High quality, sharp, in focus — no creases, tears, or marks on the surface
Digital Upload — e-Visa Portal
- Format: JPEG, PNG, or TIFF
- File size: within the portal's upload limits (typically under 2 MB — check at time of applying)
- Clear, in focus, and unaltered from its original state — no digital retouching, background replacement, or filters
- Taken within the last 3 months
- Same pose, background, and expression standards as physical photographs
Background, Expression and Pose
- Background: Plain white only — no patterns, no shadows, no off-white or cream backgrounds
- Full face: Must be clearly visible, centred, and filling 70–80% of the frame from chin to crown
- Neutral expression — mouth closed, eyes open and visible
- Looking directly at the camera — no tilt, no turn
- Shoulders visible in the frame — do not crop the image at the neck
- Uniform, diffused lighting — no shadows on face or background
Not Permitted in Photographs
- Any headgear — hats, caps, turbans, hoods (religious exception: headcover must be plain, face fully visible)
- Glasses of any type — remove all eyewear including prescription spectacles
- Hair covering eyes, eyebrows, or any part of the face
- Digital background replacement, face-editing, or photo filter apps
- Photos older than 3 months
- Low-resolution smartphone selfies without professional lighting
- Photos with other persons, objects, or distractions in the frame
For the e-Visa digital upload, use a professional passport photograph taken within the last 3 months and request a JPEG digital file from the photographer. The Zambia e-Visa portal specifies that photos must not be "altered or edited from their original state" — do not use background-removal apps, lighting correction apps, or face-smoothing tools. A professionally taken photograph on a white backdrop, scanned at high resolution and saved as JPEG, is the safest approach and avoids upload rejections.
Documents Required for Zambia Visa — Complete Checklist for Indians
The documents required differ slightly between the tourist e-Visa and business e-Visa streams. The following checklist covers the complete set for Indian applicants, with guidance on each document:
1. Passport
Valid Indian passport with at least 6 months' validity beyond your last intended departure date from Zambia. Must be original, undamaged, with no handwritten amendments or alterations in the data pages. Minimum 2–3 blank visa pages. Scan the biographical data page clearly — all text fully legible, JPEG or PDF format, file size as specified by the portal.
2. Photograph
Recent colour passport-size photograph — 35 mm wide x 45 mm high, no border, taken within the last 3 months, plain white background, full face clearly visible, no headgear. For e-Visa: JPEG/PNG digital upload, unaltered from original. For embassy: two identical physical prints on professional photographic paper.
3. Round-Trip Flight Tickets
Confirmed or booked round-trip (return) flight tickets to Zambia and back to India. Zambia immigration requires evidence of an onward journey confirming you will leave the country. RTH World Tour Packages strongly recommends booking refundable tickets — if your visa application is rejected, you can cancel without financial loss. Confirmed bookings from your travel agent are also acceptable as documentation.
4. Cover Letter
A covering letter written by the applicant is required. This is one of the most important documents — it contextualises your entire application and must be clear, specific, and professionally presented:
Cover Letter — Employed Applicants
- Written on A4 paper, addressed to the Zambia Department of Immigration
- State your full name, designation, employer name, and approved leave period
- Purpose of visit — tourism, safari, Victoria Falls, specific national parks; be precise
- Planned travel dates and intended cities/areas in Zambia
- Confirm you will depart Zambia before visa expiry and return to your employment
- Signed and dated by the applicant
- Attach employer NOC or leave approval letter as supporting document
Cover Letter — Self-Employed / Business Applicants
- Written on official Business Letterhead of your company/firm
- State company name, registration number, your designation, and nature of business
- For business visits: briefly explain the nature of business in Zambia, meetings to be attended, companies to be visited
- For tourism: confirm personal trip and financial self-sufficiency
- Signed by the applicant/proprietor; company seal if applicable
- Attach GST registration certificate or business registration document
5. Accommodation Proof
Confirmed hotel reservation or voucher for the full duration of stay in Zambia. RTH World Tour Packages recommends refundable hotel bookings in case of visa rejection. If staying with a relative or friend in Zambia:
- Full local address in Zambia where you will be staying
- Copy of the host's valid Zambia identification document (National Registration Card or Zambia passport)
- Signed invitation letter from the host confirming accommodation, relationship to applicant, and responsibility for your stay
6. Financial Evidence
Bank Statements
- Last 3–6 months' personal bank statements — all pages, bank attested or certified
- Statements must show consistent balance sufficient to fund all Zambia expenses — safari lodges and camps range from USD 200–700 per night; Zambia is a premium safari destination
- Average budget for a week-long Zambia safari: USD 2,000–5,000 per person
- Avoid large unexplained cash deposits immediately before the statement cut-off — immigration officers look for genuine, steady financial activity
Additional Financial Documents
- Last 2–3 years' Income Tax Returns (ITR) — salaried applicants
- Last 3 months' salary slips — for salaried employees
- Form 16 — salaried applicants (TDS certificate from employer)
- Business financial statements or ITR — for self-employed / business owners
- Fixed deposit certificates, property ownership documents, or investment statements can be used to supplement bank balance
7. Supporting Identity and Personal Documents
Employment and Occupation Documents
- Salaried employees: Employment letter on company letterhead confirming job designation, salary, approved leave period, and confirmed date of return to employment
- Self-employed / business owners: Business registration certificate, GST registration, trade license, or Certificate of Incorporation
- Students: Bonafide student certificate from institution; NOC from institution for travel
- Retired: Pension statement or retirement letter
Ties to India and Miscellaneous
- Property ownership documents, utility bills, or tenancy agreement in India — demonstrating strong ties and intent to return
- Family ties evidence — marriage certificate, children's school enrolment
- Travel insurance policy covering medical emergencies for the full Zambia stay duration — highly recommended; Zambia is remote and medical evacuation costs are significant
- All previous Indian passports if you have renewed passports in the past
- Previous international travel history documentation if available
Business Visit — Additional Requirements
- Invitation letter from the Zambian host company on their letterhead — stating the nature of business, dates of meetings, and the host's responsibility for the applicant during the visit
- Host company's Certificate of Incorporation or business registration
- Your Indian company's authorisation letter for the business trip
- Conference or seminar registration confirmation (if applicable)
The Zambia e-Visa process works differently from many other countries' fully prepaid e-Visas. After applying online at eservices.zambiaimmigration.gov.zm, you receive an approval letter by email within 3–5 working days. You print this approval letter and carry it to Zambia. At the port of entry — airport or land border — you present the approval letter, your passport, and pay the visa fee (USD 25 for single entry) to an immigration officer, who then places the physical visa sticker or endorsement in your passport. The e-Visa approval letter is not the visa itself — it is a pre-approval that allows you to receive the visa on arrival after paying the fee. Carry sufficient USD cash for this payment.
Step-by-Step Zambia e-Visa Application Procedure
All of the following steps — from document checklist preparation and photograph compliance to e-Visa form submission, status tracking, and pre-departure briefing on arrival procedures — are fully handled by RTH World Tour Packages at Rs.3,999 for a 30-day single entry. WhatsApp us on +91 91009 84920 before you start — we guide you from the first document check.
Confirm Your Visa Type and Entry Requirements
Before visiting the portal, confirm the correct visa type for your trip. For tourism to Victoria Falls, South Luangwa, Lower Zambezi, Kafue National Park, or cultural visits — the Tourist e-Visa is correct. For attending meetings, conferences, or business activities — the Business e-Visa. For a combined Zambia and Zimbabwe trip covering Victoria Falls — the KAZA UniVisa (USD 50) is the most cost-effective and flexible option. For overland transit through Zambia to a neighbouring country — the Transit Visa. Selecting the wrong type is a common avoidable error — it can affect your permitted activities and maximum stay on arrival.
Prepare All Documents and Digital Files Before Opening the Portal
Before registering on the Zambia e-Services portal, have all files ready to upload:
- Passport scan: Clear colour scan of biographical data page — all text legible; JPEG or PDF
- Digital photograph: JPEG/PNG, taken within 3 months, plain white background, 35x45mm proportions, no alterations
- Cover letter: Completed and signed A4 letter or business letterhead
- Accommodation proof: Hotel booking confirmation or invitation letter with host ID
- Flight ticket: Return flight itinerary or booking confirmation
- Financial documents: Bank statements and ITR in PDF format
- Employment letter: Signed, on company letterhead with leave approval
Register on the Zambia e-Services Portal
Go to eservices.zambiaimmigration.gov.zm — the official Zambia Department of Immigration e-Services portal. Click "Register" and create a user account by providing your email address, name, and contact details. You will receive a confirmation email — click the activation link to activate your account. Log into your account, navigate to "My Workplace," and locate the Available Visas section. Select the appropriate visa type and click "Apply for Visa" to begin a new application. Use only the official portal. Third-party websites offering Zambia e-Visa services charge significant additional fees over the official government rate.
Complete Form 16 — Visa Application Form
Complete the Application for Visa (Form 16) with accurate personal information — exactly matching your Indian passport. Required fields include:
- Full name, date of birth, place of birth, nationality, gender
- Passport number, issue date, expiry date, issuing authority (Passport Seva Kendra / Regional Passport Office)
- Intended port of entry (Kenneth Kaunda International Airport Lusaka, Harry Mwaanga Nkumbula Airport Livingstone, Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe Airport Ndola, or land border)
- Planned entry date and intended duration of stay
- Accommodation details for first night in Zambia
- Purpose of visit and planned activities
- If visiting relatives or friends: their full name and address in Zambia
Upload All Required Documents
Upload each required document in the formats specified by the portal (JPG or PNG for photographs, PDF for written documents). Required uploads typically include: passport biographical page scan, digital photograph, return flight ticket, hotel booking or accommodation proof, cover letter, and bank statements. Business visa applicants also upload the invitation letter and host company's registration certificate. Confirm each upload is accepted before proceeding — look for confirmation ticks or success messages on the portal for each file.
Submit Application and Await Processing
Review all application details and uploaded documents before final submission. After submitting, you receive a confirmation email with your application reference number. You can track your application's progress through the tracking facility on the e-Visa portal using your application number and email. Standard processing time is 3 to 5 working days. Apply at least 2 weeks before your intended travel date — do not book non-refundable flights until your approval letter is received. During busy travel periods (June–October — peak safari season), processing may extend to 7 working days.
Receive and Print Your e-Visa Approval Letter
If approved, you receive an e-Visa approval letter by email. Download the PDF and print at least 3 copies — carry one in hand luggage, store one in checked baggage, and keep one photographed on your phone. This approval letter is your pre-clearance document. It is not the visa itself — you present it at the Zambia port of entry to receive the physical visa sticker or endorsement after paying the visa fee in USD cash. Verify all details on the approval letter match your passport before travelling — name, passport number, entry port, and intended dates.
Arrive at Zambia Port of Entry and Collect Visa Sticker
At Zambia immigration on arrival:
- Present your valid Indian passport and printed e-Visa approval letter to the immigration officer
- Pay the visa fee in USD cash — USD 25 for single entry tourist; USD 40 double entry; USD 75 multiple entry; USD 50 KAZA UniVisa. Carry exact amounts in clean USD notes (no torn or very old notes)
- The immigration officer places the visa sticker or endorsement in your passport — this is the actual visa confirming your authorised entry and permitted stay period
- Verify the visa sticker details before leaving the immigration counter — check entry type, permitted stay duration, and expiry date match what you applied for
- Keep the visa sticker page safe throughout your trip — do not bend, wet, or fold the passport at this page
Zambia Visa Fees — Complete Reference for Indians
| Visa Type | Entry Type | Fee (USD) | Fee (~INR) | Max Stay | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist e-Visa | Single | USD 25 | ~Rs.2,100 | 90 days | 90 days from issue |
| Tourist e-Visa | Double | USD 40 | ~Rs.3,380 | 90 days per entry | 90 days from issue |
| Tourist e-Visa | Multiple | USD 75 | ~Rs.6,340 | 90 days per entry | 90 days from issue |
| Business e-Visa | Single | USD 25 | ~Rs.2,100 | 30 days | 90 days from issue |
| Transit Visa | Single | Varies | Varies | 7 days | 7 days from issue |
| KAZA UniVisa | Multiple (Zambia+Zimbabwe) | USD 50 | ~Rs.4,230 | 30 days | 30 days from issue |
| Day Tripper | Same-day exit | USD 10 | ~Rs.845 | Under 24 hrs | Per day, border only |
| RTH Processing | 30-Day Single Entry | — | Rs.3,999 | 30 Days | Full support included |
All fees are in USD and non-refundable even if the application is rejected. Visa fees are paid on arrival in cash — carry USD notes. INR equivalents are approximate. Confirm current official fees at zambiaimmigration.gov.zm before applying.
Video References — Zambia e-Visa and Safari Planning
Zambia e-Visa Application for Indians — Step-by-Step at eservices.zambiaimmigration.gov.zm
A complete walkthrough of the Zambia e-Services portal — from account registration and Form 16 completion to document upload, application submission, tracking status, and the approval letter process. Includes guidance on what happens at Zambia immigration on arrival for the visa sticker collection.
Search on YouTubeZambia Safari and Victoria Falls Travel Guide — Indians
Travel guides by Indian travellers covering Victoria Falls from the Zambian side (Livingstone), South Luangwa National Park leopard safaris, Lower Zambezi canoe safaris, Kafue National Park, and practical travel tips for Indians — currency, accommodation booking, game drive costs, best lodges, and seasonal advice.
Search on YouTubeTips for a Smooth Zambia Visa Application and Visit
Apply 2–3 Weeks Before Travel
Standard processing is 3–5 working days, but the peak safari season (June–October) sees higher application volumes. Apply 2–3 weeks ahead to allow buffer for any re-submissions or additional document requests from the Zambia immigration authority.
Book Refundable Tickets and Hotels
Do not book non-refundable flights or hotels until your approval letter is received. Both the visa fee and the application review process involve assessment risk — refundable bookings protect your finances if any issues arise during processing.
Carry USD Cash for Visa Fee
The visa fee (USD 25 single entry) is paid in cash at Zambia immigration on arrival — not online. Carry exact USD amounts in clean notes (no torn, heavily worn, or pre-2006 US dollar notes — these are often refused in Southern Africa). Also carry USD for safari camp payments, tips, and park fees.
Consider the KAZA UniVisa
If your itinerary includes both the Zambian and Zimbabwean sides of Victoria Falls — which most visitors do — the KAZA UniVisa at USD 50 is significantly better value than paying USD 25 each for separate Zambia and Zimbabwe visas. It allows unlimited crossings between the two countries for 30 days.
Travel Insurance is Essential
Zambia is remote and Lusaka's medical facilities are limited — serious incidents may require medical evacuation to South Africa. Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical evacuation (minimum USD 100,000 coverage) is not optional for Zambia safari travel. Some safari operators and lodges require proof of insurance at check-in.
Print Multiple Approval Letter Copies
The e-Visa approval letter must be physically presented at Zambia immigration. Print at least 3 copies — one in hand luggage, one in checked baggage, one photographed on your phone. Also carry a copy of your hotel booking, return flight, and bank statement for the immigration interview on arrival.
Best Safari Season
The dry season (May–October) is Zambia's prime safari time — animals gather around water sources, bush is less dense, and wildlife viewing is at its best. July–September is peak season for South Luangwa leopard sightings. Victoria Falls is most dramatic April–June when the Zambezi is at maximum flow.
Yellow Fever Vaccination
A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate may be required if you are arriving from or have recently transited through a country on Zambia's Yellow Fever risk list. Carry your International Certificate of Vaccination (Yellow Card) — Zambia immigration can refuse entry without it if coming from a risk country. Consult a travel medicine clinic before departure.
Planning Your Zambia Journey — Must-Visit Destinations
Zambia offers a range of extraordinary wildlife and nature destinations that together create one of Africa's most rewarding safari itineraries. Here are the key destinations Indian travellers should plan around:
Victoria Falls — Livingstone
The world's largest curtain of falling water — 1.7 km wide and up to 108 m tall. The Zambian side offers the best views during high water (April–June) and access to activities including white-water rafting, bungee jumping, helicopter flights, and sunset cruises on the Zambezi. Stay in Livingstone for easy access.
South Luangwa National Park
Zambia's premier safari destination and one of Africa's finest. Famous for leopard sightings — one of the highest densities anywhere on the continent. Walking safaris originated here. Night drives reveal civets, genets, leopards on the hunt, and hippos leaving the Luangwa River. Best visited June–October.
Lower Zambezi National Park
A pristine wilderness where the Zambezi River forms the border with Zimbabwe. Canoe safaris alongside elephants crossing the river are the signature experience. Excellent for fishing — tiger fish are prolific. Buffalo, lion, leopard, and hippo are regularly seen from canoes and riverboats. Best April–October.
Kafue National Park
One of Africa's largest national parks — 22,400 sq km of remarkably varied habitat. The Busanga Plains in the north host exceptional lion and cheetah sightings; the southern Kafue has dense populations of sable, roan, and wild dog. Less visited than Luangwa — ideal for Indian travellers seeking solitude.
Lusaka — Capital City
Zambia's capital is the most practical arrival and departure hub — Kenneth Kaunda International Airport handles international flights. Budget 1–2 days if arriving or departing from Lusaka — the Lusaka National Museum, Kabwata Cultural Village, Munali Hills, and vibrant local markets give a strong sense of contemporary Zambian life.
Lake Kariba and Siavonga
The vast man-made lake on the Zambezi at Zambia's southern border with Zimbabwe. Houseboat safaris on Lake Kariba are unique — drift past elephants drinking at the shore, fish for tiger fish, and watch spectacular sunsets over the Matusadona hills. Accessible from Lusaka in approximately 3 hours.
For complete Zambia tour packages from India, browse our dedicated Zambia itineraries. Our team at RTH World Tour Packages designs safari itineraries combining Victoria Falls, South Luangwa, and the Lower Zambezi — covering visa processing, accommodation at top safari lodges, and complete ground arrangements.
Indian travellers building multi-continent itineraries combining Zambia with other destinations will find our Visa Policy Centre useful — with guides for the UAE visa, Singapore tourist visa, Sri Lanka tourist visa, Vietnam visa, Uzbekistan visa, Australia visa, and the UK Standard Visitor Visa for Indians. For broader international itinerary planning see our World Tour Packages or contact our team directly.
Ready to Experience Zambia's Wild Heart?
Victoria Falls, South Luangwa leopard safaris, Lower Zambezi canoe trails — let RTH handle your Zambia visa at Rs.3,999 and plan your complete African adventure.
Apply for Zambia Visa — Rs.3,999 Zambia Tour Packages Contact Our TeamZambia Visa for Indians — 15 Frequently Asked Questions
Yes — Indian passport holders require a visa to enter Zambia. Zambia is not visa-free for Indian nationals, and visa on arrival is not available as a standard service for Indian passport holders. Arriving at a Zambian airport without a valid e-Visa approval letter constitutes arriving as an undocumented traveller — you may be fined or refused entry and returned at your own expense.
The correct and only pre-approved route for Indian tourists is the Zambia e-Visa — applied for online at the official Zambia Department of Immigration portal eservices.zambiaimmigration.gov.zm. After online approval (3–5 working days), you receive an approval letter by email, print it, and present it at Zambia immigration on arrival. You then pay the visa fee (USD 25 for single entry) and receive the physical visa sticker in your passport. This is the only valid pre-travel route for Indians.
Note: Some sources and older travel guides suggest Indians can obtain a visa on arrival in Zambia — this is either outdated information or refers to the limited visa-on-arrival facility available only to holders of MFA Visa Confirmation stamps (a separate advance arrangement through the Zambia Ministry of Foreign Affairs). For all practical purposes, apply for the e-Visa well in advance. RTH World Tour Packages processes the 30-day single entry at Rs.3,999.
This is one of the most important practical points for Indian travellers applying for the Zambia e-Visa — and one that causes confusion. The Zambia e-Visa process operates differently from countries like Uzbekistan or India's e-Visa for foreign nationals where the visa itself is issued electronically and is confirmed at the border by digital verification.
In Zambia's system:
- Step 1 — e-Visa Approval Letter: This is what you receive by email after 3–5 working days of processing. It is a pre-approval or clearance letter confirming that the Zambia Department of Immigration has reviewed your application and approved it in principle. It is not a visa — it does not authorise entry on its own
- Step 2 — Visa Sticker / Endorsement on Arrival: At the Zambia port of entry (airport or land border), you present the approval letter and your passport to an immigration officer, pay the visa fee in USD cash, and receive a physical visa sticker or endorsement placed in your passport. This endorsement is the actual visa that authorises your entry and specifies the permitted stay period
The approval letter is therefore a pre-clearance document that guarantees you will be issued a visa on arrival after payment — it does not bypass the border immigration process. You must print the approval letter and carry it to Zambia. Airlines may ask to see it at check-in. Carry USD cash (exact amount) specifically for the border visa fee payment — card payments are not reliably available at all Zambia border immigration counters.
The KAZA UniVisa (Kavango Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area UniVisa) is a joint visa covering both Zambia and Zimbabwe, valid for 30 days. It was launched as a permanent scheme in December 2016 following a successful pilot project between the two countries. Indian nationals are eligible to apply.
What it covers:
- Multiple crossings between Zambia and Zimbabwe for 30 days
- Day trips to Botswana through the Kazungula border crossing
- Valid within the KAZA transfrontier conservation area — not for travel beyond Zambia and Zimbabwe into other countries
Cost: USD 50 — compared to USD 25 for Zambia alone plus USD 50 for Zimbabwe alone (separate Zimbabwe visa fee). The KAZA UniVisa therefore saves USD 25 for travellers visiting both countries.
Where available: Online via e-Visa application; Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (Lusaka); Harry Mwaanga Nkumbula Airport (Livingstone); Victoria Falls Border Control; Kazungula Border Control.
Should you apply for it? Yes — if your itinerary includes Victoria Falls, you will almost certainly want to see the falls from both sides. The Zambian side is best April–June (high water, dramatic spray); the Zimbabwe side gives more panoramic views in the dry season. Crossing the border is also essential if you want to do specific activities that are available only on one side (bungee at the bridge from Zimbabwe; Zambian white-water rafting grade V rapids from Zambia). The KAZA UniVisa makes this flexibility effortless.
The Zambia tourist e-Visa (single, double, or multiple entry) permits a stay of up to 90 days per entry. The e-Visa is valid for 90 days from the date of issue — meaning you can enter at any point during those 90 days and stay for up to 90 consecutive days from the date of entry. Business visitors are limited to 30 days per visit (maximum 30 days in any 12-month period as a business visitor).
Extensions for tourist visitors: If you wish to extend your stay beyond the initial 90 days, you must apply for a Visiting Permit at the nearest Zambia Department of Immigration office before your current permission expires. Extensions can be granted for 90-day periods and applied for twice — giving a potential maximum stay of 270 days under this mechanism. The application process involves submitting a request to the Director General of Immigration with your reasons.
Extensions for business visitors: If you need to stay beyond 30 days for business, apply for a Temporary Employment Permit — a more complex permit that requires documentation from a Zambian employer or business partner.
Overstaying consequences: Overstaying your permitted duration in Zambia without an approved extension is a violation of immigration law. Consequences include fines, deportation, and potential bans from future entry. Zambia immigration officers check entry dates when you depart — ensure you leave within the permitted period.
The complete Zambia e-Visa document checklist for Indian tourist applicants includes:
- Valid Indian passport — scanned biographical data page, valid for 6 months beyond last departure date from Zambia, minimum 2–3 blank visa pages
- Recent colour photograph — 35x45mm, white background, taken within 3 months, no headgear
- Confirmed return flight tickets — or travel agent booking confirmation showing round-trip
- Hotel booking confirmation or accommodation proof (invitation letter with host ID for private stays)
- Covering letter — by the applicant explaining purpose of visit and travel details
- Bank statements — last 3–6 months, showing sufficient funds for a Zambia safari trip
- Employment letter or business registration documents
- Income Tax Returns for the last 2 years
- Travel insurance policy (strongly recommended)
Why the cover letter is particularly important: The cover letter is the only narrative document in a Zambia visa application — it is the applicant's personal statement of intent, itinerary, and financial capability. Immigration officers use it to assess whether the visit is genuine and whether the applicant has strong ties to India (ensuring return). A vague, one-line cover letter is a significant red flag. A strong cover letter includes: specific purpose (which national parks, which activities, which dates), confirmed accommodation names, total budget for the trip, your employer and approved leave period, and a confident statement of intent to return to India. RTH World Tour Packages reviews and helps structure the cover letter as part of our Rs.3,999 visa processing service.
Zambia's photograph specifications for visa applications:
| Specification | Physical (Embassy) | Digital (e-Visa Portal) |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 35 mm x 45 mm (no border) | Proportional equivalent digital |
| Format | Colour print on photo paper | JPEG, PNG, or TIFF |
| Recency | Within last 3 months | Within last 3 months |
| Quantity | 2 identical prints | 1 digital upload |
| Background | Plain white only | Plain white only |
| Alterations | Not permitted | Not permitted — original state only |
| Headgear | Not permitted | Not permitted |
Why 3 months? Zambia's 3-month recency requirement is stricter than many countries that accept 6-month-old photographs. This reflects Zambia's approach to ensuring the photograph accurately represents the current physical appearance of the applicant — helpful for immigration biometric matching at border control. The 3-month rule is explicitly stated in official Zambia visa requirements and must be followed precisely. A photograph taken 4 months ago may technically be rejected, even if you look identical to it.
Additionally, the e-Visa portal explicitly states that photographs must not be "altered or edited from their original state" — this bars the use of any background removal app, face retouching tool, or lighting correction software, even if the result looks natural. Have a professional photo studio take a fresh photograph specifically for this application within the 3-month window before your submission date.
Zambia's e-Visa is accepted at designated ports of entry. When completing your e-Visa application, you must specify which port of entry you plan to use — ensure your planned entry point is listed and your travel bookings match this selection.
International Airports accepting e-Visa:
- Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (LUN) — Lusaka: Zambia's main international hub; most long-haul and regional international flights arrive here; primary gateway for safaris to South Luangwa, Lower Zambezi, and Kafue
- Harry Mwaanga Nkumbula International Airport (LVI) — Livingstone: The gateway to Victoria Falls; handles regional flights from Johannesburg, Nairobi, and neighbouring capitals; ideal for Victoria Falls-focused visits
- Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport (NLA) — Ndola: Located in the Copperbelt; handles some regional flights
- Copperbelt International Airport — Kitwe
Land Border Crossings accepting e-Visa: Multiple border crossings including Chirundu (Zimbabwe), Victoria Falls/Livingstone (Zimbabwe), Kazungula (Botswana and Zimbabwe), Lusaka/Nakonde (Tanzania), Kasumbalesa (DR Congo), Chipata/Mchinji (Malawi), and others. Check the current list at zambiaimmigration.gov.zm — border control acceptance of e-Visa can change.
Important: Specify the correct port of entry on your e-Visa application — if your e-Visa states Lusaka (LUN) and you arrive at Livingstone (LVI), immigration officers may not be able to process your entry without a correctly specified port. RTH World Tour Packages verifies your entry port selection matches your flight itinerary as part of our Rs.3,999 processing service.
Zambia has two main seasons — the dry season (May–November) and the rainy or green season (December–April). Each offers different experiences and considerations for Indian travellers:
| Season | Months | Best For | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cool Dry | May–August | Game drives, walking safaris, excellent wildlife viewing around waterholes | Peak season, higher lodge rates, book 6–12 months ahead; temperatures comfortable 15–25°C |
| Hot Dry | September–October | Exceptional wildlife concentration at diminishing water sources; South Luangwa at its finest | Very hot (35–42°C); Victoria Falls at lowest water; good value over peak season |
| Victoria Falls Peak | April–June | Victoria Falls at maximum flow — most dramatic views; Zambezi white-water rafting at highest grade | Rainy season transitioning to dry; some bush roads may still be wet in April |
| Green Season | December–March | Birdwatching peak — migratory species arrive; green and lush landscapes; lowest lodge rates | Rainy — some camps closed; roads can flood; malaria risk highest; wildlife more dispersed |
Recommendation for first-time Indian visitors: July–September is the optimal window for most Indian travellers — peak wildlife viewing coincides with reasonably comfortable temperatures, all lodges are open, and the Zambezi is navigable for canoe safaris. Victoria Falls remains impressive in July (transitioning from high water). Book lodge accommodation in South Luangwa and the Lower Zambezi 6–9 months in advance for peak season.
Yellow Fever vaccination requirements for Zambia depend on your recent travel history — specifically whether you have arrived from or transited through a country on Zambia's Yellow Fever risk list.
- Travelling directly from India to Zambia: India is not on Zambia's Yellow Fever required countries list. Most Indian travellers flying directly Hyderabad/Delhi/Mumbai to Lusaka (via Nairobi, Addis Ababa, Johannesburg, or Doha) do not require a Yellow Fever certificate unless transiting through a risk country
- Transiting through Yellow Fever risk countries: If your routing includes a transit stop in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Nigeria, Ethiopia, or another Yellow Fever endemic country (even a brief airport transit), Zambia immigration may require your International Certificate of Vaccination (Yellow Card / ICV) as proof of Yellow Fever vaccination
- Recommended as a precaution: Regardless of transit routing, travel medicine specialists recommend Yellow Fever vaccination for all travellers to Zambia as the disease is present in the region. The vaccine is typically given at least 10 days before travel for it to be valid
Practical advice: Visit a travel medicine clinic or government-approved Yellow Fever vaccination centre in India at least 4 weeks before travel. Obtain the International Certificate of Vaccination (yellow card). This card is valid for life following the 2016 WHO update. Carry it with your passport for all Zambia travel — Zambia immigration occasionally checks Yellow Fever certificates even for travellers arriving from non-risk countries during heightened disease surveillance periods.
Other recommended vaccinations for Zambia: Malaria prophylaxis (consult a doctor — Zambia is a high malaria risk zone); Typhoid; Hepatitis A; Rabies (for extended bush travel).
Each family member requires a separate individual e-Visa application and approval letter — there is no family visa or joint application facility for Zambia. Each traveller, including children, must have their own approved e-Visa.
Children under 16 years:
- Each child requires their own individual passport and individual e-Visa approval letter
- The e-Visa portal states that children below 16 cannot apply independently — their details are managed through an accompanying adult's account, but a separate application is still required per child
- Children's photographs must meet all specifications: white background, full face visible, taken within 3 months — infants must be photographed alone on white background, no hands or restraints visible
- Children's visa fees are the same as adults — USD 25 per child for single entry tourist
Documents for children travelling with one parent:
- Notarised letter of consent from the non-travelling parent, authorising travel to Zambia with the travelling parent
- If only one parent is alive: death certificate of the deceased parent
- If travelling with neither parent: notarised letter of consent from both parents and the child's travel documentation
- Birth certificate of the child (recommended to carry)
RTH World Tour Packages can coordinate simultaneous e-Visa applications for all family members as part of our Rs.3,999 processing service — we prepare consistent documentation across all applications and ensure alignment of travel dates and entry ports.
Zambia e-Visa rejections for Indian tourist applicants are uncommon when applications are submitted with complete, accurate, and well-presented documentation. The most frequent causes of rejection and solutions:
- Incomplete documents: Missing one or more required uploads — cover letter absent, no accommodation proof, or bank statements incomplete. Solution: follow the full checklist; our Rs.3,999 service includes a complete document review before submission
- Non-compliant photograph: Wrong dimensions, taken more than 3 months ago, digitally altered, or patterned background. Solution: have a fresh professional photo taken specifically for this application to all Zambia specifications
- Weak covering letter: Vague purpose statement, no specific itinerary, or failure to demonstrate strong ties to India. Solution: write a detailed, specific, and confident letter — or let RTH draft a structured covering letter with your input
- Insufficient financial evidence: Bank balance or income proof not demonstrating ability to fund a Zambia safari trip (lodges cost USD 200–700 per night). Solution: ensure 3–6 months' statements show consistent, adequate balance; supplement with fixed deposits or investment statements if needed
- Application errors: Name or passport number not matching the passport exactly; wrong entry port specified. Solution: cross-reference every field against your physical passport before submitting
- Previous visa violations: Prior overstays or refusals disclosed in the application. Zambia takes a cautious view of prior immigration violations — full disclosure is required and false statements are grounds for permanent refusal
If rejected, review the rejection reason, correct the specific issue, and re-apply. The fee is non-refundable from the previous application. There is no mandatory waiting period before reapplying.
Permitted on the Zambia Tourist e-Visa:
- Wildlife safaris and game drives in all national parks — South Luangwa, Lower Zambezi, Kafue, Liuwa Plain, Sioma Ngwezi, Kasanka, and all others
- Victoria Falls viewing, activities, and border crossings (with KAZA UniVisa for Zimbabwe side)
- Canoe safaris, houseboat safaris, fishing (recreational, not commercial)
- Cultural tourism — visiting traditional villages, ceremonies, heritage sites
- Birdwatching, photography tourism, hiking, trekking
- Visiting friends and family
- Short-term voluntourism (typically up to 30 days without remuneration — verify with immigration)
Not permitted on Tourist e-Visa:
- Any paid employment for a Zambian employer
- Commercial fishing or trophy hunting — require specific licences and permits from Zambia Wildlife Authority (ZAWA)
- Business activities, meetings, or negotiations — the Business e-Visa stream is required
- Journalistic, research, or documentary work — require media accreditation or research permits from relevant Zambian ministries
- Academic enrolment or long-term study — requires student visa
- Medical treatment stays beyond the tourist visa context — require medical visa category
Zambia has an excellent safety record for international tourists and is widely regarded as one of Africa's most stable and visitor-friendly countries. Indian tourists are received warmly — Zambia has historically had positive diplomatic and commercial ties with India, and the Indian community is well-established in Lusaka and the Copperbelt region.
Practical safety and logistics information for Indian travellers:
- Personal safety in cities: Lusaka and Livingstone are generally safe in tourist and business areas. Exercise standard urban caution — avoid displaying expensive items; use registered taxis or hotel-arranged transfers rather than unmarked vehicles at night
- Malaria: Zambia is a high malaria risk destination throughout the year, with peak risk during the rainy season (November–April). Take prescribed malaria prophylaxis, use DEET insect repellent, wear long sleeves and trousers at dusk, and sleep under a mosquito net — safari lodges provide nets. Consult a travel medicine doctor at least 6 weeks before travel
- Currency: Zambia's currency is the Zambian Kwacha (ZMW). USD is widely accepted at lodges, national parks, and tourist facilities. Carry both USD cash and Zambian Kwacha for smaller purchases. International debit/credit cards work at Lusaka ATMs — not reliably in remote safari areas
- Indian food: Lusaka has Indian restaurants. Safari lodges cater to international dietary requirements — notify your lodge of vegetarian preferences when booking. Game reserves are remote — there is no "just pop out for Indian food" option outside Lusaka
- Connectivity: Airtel Zambia and MTN Zambia SIM cards are available at Lusaka Airport. 4G coverage in Lusaka and Livingstone; EDGE/GPRS in national parks. Most safari lodges have Wi-Fi at the main area; remote camps may have satellite connectivity only or none
- Electricity: Type G plugs (UK-style three-pin) — same as India's type G sockets are compatible. Voltage: 230V, 50Hz — Indian devices are compatible
- Driving: Zambia drives on the left. International Driving Permit (IDP) is required for self-drive. Road quality varies significantly — tarred main highways versus rough dirt tracks in national parks. Safari operators use experienced guides with 4x4 vehicles — self-drive in national parks is strongly discouraged for first-time visitors
There are no direct flights from India to Zambia as of early 2026 — all routes require at least one transit stop. Common routings for Indian travellers:
- Via Nairobi (Kenya): Kenya Airways, Air India (codeshare) from Hyderabad/Delhi/Mumbai to Nairobi (NBO), onward to Lusaka (LUN) or Livingstone (LVI). Nairobi–Lusaka is approximately 2.5 hours. Kenya Airways is the most popular choice for Indian travellers to Zambia
- Via Addis Ababa (Ethiopia): Ethiopian Airlines from Hyderabad/Delhi/Mumbai/Chennai to Addis Ababa (ADD), onward to Lusaka. Excellent connection times and reliability; Ethiopian Airlines serves Lusaka multiple times weekly
- Via Johannesburg (South Africa): Air India/Emirates/Qatar Airways to Johannesburg (JNB), onward on South African Airways or Zambia Airways to Lusaka. Longer journey but good onward connections; useful if combining Zambia with a South Africa visit
- Via Doha or Dubai: Qatar Airways / Emirates to Doha or Dubai, onward connections to Lusaka or Livingstone via Nairobi or Johannesburg. Convenient for Hyderabad, Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai travellers
Flight time from India: Total journey time including transit is typically 14–22 hours depending on routing and connection time.
Key airports for Zambia arrival:
- Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (LUN) — Lusaka: main hub, best for South Luangwa, Lower Zambezi, Kafue itineraries
- Harry Mwaanga Nkumbula Airport (LVI) — Livingstone: convenient for Victoria Falls-focused trips; served by regional connections from Johannesburg and Nairobi
RTH World Tour Packages can advise on optimal flight routing based on your Indian city of departure and preferred Zambia itinerary — contact our team for a complete flight and safari package consultation.
RTH World Tour Packages provides comprehensive Zambia e-Visa processing assistance for Indian passport holders at a transparent fee of Rs.3,999 for a 30-day single entry. Here is exactly what is included and why it adds value over a solo self-application:
- Complete document checklist review: We verify your passport validity, photograph compliance, cover letter quality, bank statement adequacy, and all supporting documents before we touch the application — addressing every known rejection trigger upfront
- Photograph compliance verification: We check your digital photograph against all Zambia specifications (35x45mm, white background, taken within 3 months, unaltered, correct format) before upload — the most frequently non-compliant document in Indian applications
- Cover letter review: We review and help structure your covering letter to meet Zambia immigration's expectations — specific itinerary, clear purpose, strong ties to India, financial capability stated clearly
- Application form completion: We complete the e-Services portal Form 16 with your details, cross-referenced against your passport to eliminate data entry errors — including the correct port of entry matching your flight bookings
- Status monitoring: We track your application through the 3–5 working day processing period and keep you updated at each stage
- Approval letter delivery guidance: We advise on printing, carrying, and presenting your approval letter at Zambia immigration, and on the visa sticker collection process including USD cash requirements
- Pre-departure briefing: Essential information on Yellow Fever certificate, USD cash for visa fee, entry port, and what to expect at Zambia immigration
- WhatsApp support: Direct communication channel throughout the entire process
To begin your Zambia visa application with RTH World Tour Packages, visit our Plan Now page or WhatsApp us on +91 91009 84920. We also offer complete Zambia safari tour packages covering Victoria Falls, South Luangwa, Lower Zambezi, and Kafue — from visa to lodge to game drive, entirely handled by our team.
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