Zambia entry requirements for Ethiopia passport holders
Checked daily · Updated May 29, 2026·View sources
eVisa required
Max stay
No fixed limit
Passport validity
6 months
Beyond entry date
Return ticket
Required
Or onward travel proof
Proof of funds
Recommended
May be checked
Ethiopian passport holders must get an eVisa before traveling to Zambia. The entire application is online. As of 2026, the eVisa covers tourism and business visits.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| eVisa application Apply online before travel | Apply for a Zambia eVisa at the official eVisa portal. Processing takes 3–5 working days. Print the approval letter and carry it with your passport to immigration.Apply for eVisa | Required |
| Valid passport Must have at least 6 months validity | Your Ethiopian passport needs at least 6 months of remaining validity from your date of entry into Zambia. Immigration at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport checks this strictly. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Proof of departure from Zambia | Immigration officers routinely ask for a confirmed return or onward ticket. Airlines at Bole International Airport may also check this before boarding. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel booking or host invitation | Have a printed hotel reservation or a letter of invitation from your host in Zambia. Immigration may ask for it, especially if you're staying more than a few days. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Show you can support your stay | Carry bank statements or a credit card showing you have enough funds for your trip. Immigration rarely asks, but it helps if questioned. | Recommended |
Apply early — no rush service
The eVisa takes 3–5 business days and there's no expedited option. Don't wait until the last minute. Apply at least a week before your flight.
Keep digital copies handy
Save your eVisa PDF, return ticket, and hotel booking on your phone. Immigration at Lusaka and Livingstone airports may ask to see them. A screenshot is fine.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for the eVisa online
Go to the official Zambia eVisa portal (evisa.zambiaimmigration.gov.zm). Fill in your details, upload a passport photo and a scan of your passport bio page. Pay the fee with a credit or debit card. Processing usually takes 3–5 business days.
2
Receive and save your eVisa
Once approved, you'll get an email with your eVisa PDF. Print a copy and also save it on your phone. You'll need to show it at immigration in Lusaka (Kenneth Kaunda International Airport) or Livingstone (Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport).
3
Arrive in Zambia and go through immigration
At the airport, join the 'Foreign Passports' queue. Hand over your passport, eVisa printout, and return ticket. The officer will check your details and stamp you in. Have your accommodation address ready if asked.
Download Zambia Entry Checklist
PDF · Ethiopia Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated May 29, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Tourist visa single entry
Max stay90 days
Validity3 months from issue
CostUSD 50 (approx. USD 50)
Standard eVisa for tourism, non-extendable.
Tourist visa multiple entry
Max stay90 days per entry
Validity6 months from issue
CostUSD 80 (approx. USD 80)
Allows multiple entries, suitable for frequent travellers.
Business visa
Max stay90 days
Validity3 months from issue
CostUSD 100 (approx. USD 100)
Requires invitation letter from Zambian company.
work visa
Employment Permit
Up to 2 years, renewable
USD 500–1,000 (approx.)
For foreign nationals with a job offer from a Zambian employer. Requires employer sponsorship and proof of qualifications.
student visa
Student Permit
Duration of studies, renewable annually
USD 200–400 (approx.)
For enrolled students at recognized Zambian institutions. Requires acceptance letter and proof of funds.
investor visa
Investor Permit
Up to 3 years, renewable
USD 1,000–2,000 (approx.)
For individuals investing a minimum of USD 250,000 in Zambia. Requires business plan and proof of investment.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| eVisa (single entry)Standard fee for Ethiopian passport holders applying online. | USD 50 (approx. USD 50) |
| eVisa (multiple entry)Allows multiple entries within validity period. | USD 80 (approx. USD 80) |
| Overstay fine per dayCharged for each day overstayed beyond authorized period. | USD 30 per day |
| Overstay maximum capMaximum fine for overstay, regardless of duration. | USD 300 |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds proof30%
No return ticket25%
Incomplete application documents20%
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
Ethiopian passport holders transiting through Zambia do not need a transit visa if they remain airside and have a confirmed onward ticket. However, if leaving the airport, a visa is required.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Exceptions & conditions
- Holders of a valid US, UK, or Schengen visa may transit without visa for up to 48 hours.
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, including Ethiopia.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidEssentialHepatitis BRecommendedRabiesConsiderCholeraConsider
Health risks
MalariaHigh risk
Present throughout Zambia, especially in rural areas. Prophylaxis recommended.
Dengue FeverModerate risk
Occurs in urban and semi-urban areas, especially during rainy season.
CholeraModerate risk
Outbreaks occur, especially in areas with poor sanitation. Practice food and water safety.
Malaria risk: high
Malaria is high throughout Zambia, including urban areas. Prophylaxis (e.g., atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline) is strongly recommended. Use insect repellent and bed nets.
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
Main office for visa extensions and permits. Bring passport, photos, and fee.
Livingstone
Livingstone Immigration Office
Mosi-oa-Tunya Road, Livingstone
Mon–Fri 08:00–16:30
Handles extensions for tourists near Victoria Falls.
Practical information for ET 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 = 18.44 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
Typically 3–5 business days. Apply at least a week before your trip to be safe. There's no expedited option.
The fee varies by visa type. For a single-entry tourist eVisa, it's around $50 USD. Check the official portal for the exact amount at the time of application.
No, the eVisa is not extendable. If you need to stay longer, you must leave and reapply, or apply for a different visa type before you travel.
Yes, if you're arriving from a country with yellow fever (Ethiopia is not on the list, but if you've recently traveled to a risk country, you'll need proof). Otherwise, it's not required for direct travel from Ethiopia.
You'll receive a rejection email with a reason. Common reasons include incomplete forms or poor photo quality. You can reapply with corrected information. There's no appeal process.
No, the eVisa is the only option for Ethiopian passport holders. You must have it approved before you travel. No visa on arrival is available.
Report it to the nearest police station and get a police report. Then contact the Ethiopian Embassy in Pretoria, South Africa (there's no embassy in Zambia). They can issue an emergency travel document.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on May 29, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.