Zambia entry requirements for China passport holders
Checked daily · Updated May 20, 2026·View sources
No visa required
90 days
Max stay
90 days
Passport validity
6 months
Beyond entry date
Return ticket
Required
Or onward travel proof
Proof of funds
Recommended
May be checked
Chinese passport holders can visit Zambia visa-free for up to 90 days. This policy has been in place since 2024, making Zambia one of the easiest African destinations for Chinese travellers. Just make sure your passport is valid for at least six months from your date of entry.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Valid passport Must cover your stay in Zambia | Your passport needs at least two blank pages for entry stamps. Zambia does not require six months of validity beyond your departure date — just enough to cover your stay. Airlines may still enforce the six-month rule, so check with your carrier before flying. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Proof of departure from Zambia | Immigration officers at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport regularly ask for a confirmed onward ticket. Have a printed or digital copy of your return flight or a ticket to your next destination ready. Overland exits are less common but still require proof of departure. | Recommended |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel booking or invitation letter | Carry a printed hotel reservation or a letter of invitation from your host in Zambia. Officers may ask for your accommodation details during the entry interview. A simple booking confirmation from Booking.com or Agoda works. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Show you can support yourself | Have bank statements or a credit card showing at least $500 USD available for your stay. Immigration may ask how you plan to cover expenses. A recent bank statement or a screenshot of your online banking app is sufficient. | Recommended |
Visa-free entry is for tourism only
The 90-day visa-free entry is for tourism, business visits, or transit. If you plan to work, study, or volunteer, you must apply for the appropriate visa before you travel.
Passport validity is strictly enforced
Immigration officers check passport validity carefully. If your passport has less than 6 months remaining, you will be refused entry — no exceptions.
What happens at the border
1
Prepare your documents before you fly
Check your passport validity (6+ months from entry date). Book your return/onward ticket and first night accommodation. Print or screenshot confirmations. Get travel insurance and a local SIM or eSIM.
2
Arrive at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (Lusaka) or Livingstone Airport
Most Chinese travellers fly into Lusaka or Livingstone. Follow signs to 'Immigration' or 'Passport Control'. Join the queue for foreign passports.
3
Present your passport and supporting documents
Hand over your passport and any documents the officer asks for (return ticket, accommodation). They'll check your passport validity and stamp you in. No visa fee is charged.
4
Collect your luggage and proceed to customs
After immigration, go to baggage claim, then customs. Declare any goods over the duty-free limit. Exit into the arrivals hall.
Download Zambia Entry Checklist
PDF · China Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated May 20, 2026
Overstay calculator
Enter your arrival date and we'll tell you exactly when you need to leave.
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Tourist visa (single entry)
Max stay90 days, extendable 30 days
Validity3 months from issue date
CostFree (visa-free entry applies)
Visa-free entry already covers 90 days; extension possible at immigration office.
Tourist visa (multiple entry)
Max stay90 days per entry, extendable 30 days
Validity6 months from issue date
CostFree (visa-free entry applies)
Visa-free entry allows multiple entries; no additional visa needed.
Business visa
Max stay90 days, extendable 30 days
Validity3 months from issue date
CostFree (visa-free entry applies)
Visa-free entry covers business visits; no separate visa required.
work visa
Employment Permit
Up to 2 years, renewable
~$500 USD (processing fee)
For foreign nationals with a job offer in Zambia. Requires employer sponsorship, contract, and proof of qualifications. Allows multiple entries.
investor visa
Investor Permit
Up to 5 years, renewable
~$1,000 USD (processing fee)
For individuals investing at least $250,000 USD in Zambia. Requires business plan and proof of funds. Includes family dependents.
student visa
Student Permit
Duration of study, renewable annually
~$200 USD (processing fee)
For enrolled students at recognized Zambian institutions. Requires admission letter, proof of funds, and health insurance.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Overstay fine per dayMaximum cap of 10,000 ZMW (~$500 USD). Pay at immigration office before departure. | 300 ZMW (~$15 USD) per day |
| Tourist visa (single entry)No fee required for visa-free entry; this is an alternative for longer stays. | Free (visa-free entry applies) |
| Tourist visa (multiple entry)Not applicable for standard visa-free entry; see visa alternatives for paid options. | Free (visa-free entry applies) |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Suspicious travel pattern20%
Approval probability calculator
Answer 6 quick questions — we'll estimate how likely you are to be approved for entry based on typical immigration patterns.
Transiting through Zambia
No transit visa needed
Chinese passport holders transiting through Zambia do not need a transit visa if staying airside and not passing through immigration.
Airside transitAllowed
Transit hubsKenneth Kaunda International Airport (Lusaka) · Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport (Livingstone) · Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport (Ndola)
Health & vaccines for Zambia
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired if arriving from a country with yellow fever risk; certificate must be presented.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidEssentialRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio)EssentialRabiesConsiderCholeraConsider
Health risks
MalariaHigh risk
Present throughout Zambia; prophylaxis recommended, especially in rural areas.
Dengue feverModerate risk
Occurs in urban and semi-urban areas; mosquito avoidance advised.
CholeraModerate risk
Outbreaks occur during rainy season; ensure safe food and water.
Malaria risk: high
High risk throughout the country, especially in rural areas. Prophylaxis (e.g., atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline) recommended for all travellers.
Based on CDC and WHO guidance. Consult a travel medicine clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalised advice.
Immigration offices for extensions
Lusaka
Department of Immigration – Headquarters
Plot 1, Independence Avenue, Lusaka
Mon–Fri 08:00–16:30
For visa extensions and permits; bring passport, photos, and proof of funds.
Livingstone
Livingstone Immigration Office
Mosi-oa-Tunya Road, Livingstone
Mon–Fri 08:00–16:30
Handles extensions for tourists near Victoria Falls; arrive early to avoid queues.
Practical information for CN travellers
Country basics
CapitalLusaka
LanguageEnglish
Driving sideLeft-hand traffic
US driving licenceUS visitors can drive with a valid US license for up to 90 days.
Money
CurrencyZambian kwacha (ZMW)
Exchange rate
1 USD = 18.88 ZMW
Time zone
Local timeUTC+2
vs New York+7h
vs Los Angeles+10h
Electricity
Voltage230V / 50Hz
Plug types
C,D,GTypes C (Europlug), D (old British), and G (British rectangular) are used.
⚠ US adapter needed
Water & health
Tap water
Not safe — use bottled
Tap water is not safe to drink; use bottled or boiled water.
Emergency numbers
Frequently asked questions
No. Chinese citizens can enter Zambia visa-free for up to 90 days. This policy started in 2024 and is still in effect.
No, the visa-free entry is not extendable. If you need to stay longer, you must leave Zambia and re-enter, or apply for a different visa type before travel.
You will likely be denied boarding by the airline or refused entry at immigration. Renew your passport before you travel.
Zambia requires a yellow fever vaccination certificate if you are arriving from a country with yellow fever risk. If you're flying directly from China, it's not required. Check the latest health requirements before travel.
Yes, the visa-free policy applies at all official entry points, including land borders with Tanzania, Malawi, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, Angola, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The local currency is the Zambian kwacha (ZMW). US dollars are widely accepted at hotels and tour operators, but you'll need kwacha for smaller purchases. ATMs are available in cities.
Zambia is generally safe for tourists. Petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas. Avoid walking alone at night in cities. The Chinese embassy in Lusaka can assist in emergencies.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on May 20, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.