Malawi entry requirements for New Zealand passport holders
Updated weekly · Last reviewed August 6, 2026·View sources
Visa on arrival
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
New Zealand passport holders can get a visa on arrival in Malawi, valid for up to 90 days. You'll need a valid passport with at least one blank page and six months of validity remaining. No prior application is needed — just arrive and pay the visa fee in cash at the airport or border post.
Apply for Malawi eVisaOfficial portal: Malawi eVisa Portal
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Visa on arrivalYou do not need to apply for a visa before travelling; you will get it when you arrive in Malawi. Entry permit issued at port of entry | New Zealand passport holders can obtain a visa on arrival in Malawi, valid for a stay of up to 90 days. The visa is not extendable. Have the visa fee in cash (USD or MWK) ready. | Required |
| Passport validityCheck your passport expiry date — if it is less than 6 months away, renew it before you travel. At least 6 months from arrival | Your New Zealand passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended date of arrival in Malawi. | Required |
| Blank passport pagesThe visa on arrival will be stamped in your passport, so you need a clean page for it. At least 1 blank page | Your passport must have at least one blank page for the visa stamp and entry/exit stamps. | Required |
| Return or onward ticketHave your flight booking printed or on your phone to show at the border. Proof of departure from Malawi | Immigration officials may ask to see a confirmed return or onward flight ticket showing you will leave Malawi before your 90-day visa expires. | Required |
| Proof of fundsIt is not always asked, but having proof of funds can speed up entry and is a standard immigration requirement. Sufficient funds for your stay | Be prepared to show evidence of sufficient funds (e.g., bank statement, credit card) to cover your expenses during your stay in Malawi. | Recommended |
| Visa fee in cashCard payments are often not accepted for visa fees, so carry cash. Payment for visa on arrival | Have the visa on arrival fee in cash (US dollars or Malawian kwacha) — exact amount may vary; check current fee before travel. | Required |
| Arrival declarationYou do not need to fill out any extra online form before arrival. Not required | No separate arrival declaration form is required for New Zealand passport holders entering Malawi. | Not required |
| eVisa applicationIgnore any online eVisa application — it is not for you. Not applicable | New Zealand passport holders are not eligible for Malawi's eVisa program. Do not apply online; obtain your visa on arrival instead. | Not required |
Cash only for visa fee
The visa-on-arrival fee must be paid in cash (USD or MWK). There are no ATMs before immigration, so carry enough cash with you. Small denominations are best.
No eVisa for New Zealanders
Even though Malawi has an eVisa system, New Zealand passport holders are not eligible. Do not apply online — just get your visa on arrival.
Visa is not extendable
Your 90-day visa cannot be extended. Overstaying can result in fines or deportation. Mark your exit date clearly.
What happens at the border
1
Arrive at the port of entry
Fly into Lilongwe (Kamuzu International Airport) or Blantyre (Chileka International Airport), or cross by land at a border post. Follow the signs to 'Visa on Arrival' or 'Immigration'.
2
Present your documents
Hand over your passport, completed arrival form (if provided), and any supporting documents like your return ticket. The officer will check your passport validity and blank page.
3
Pay the visa fee
Pay the visa fee in cash (USD or MWK) at the immigration counter. Keep the receipt — you may need it when you leave.
4
Receive your visa stamp
The officer will stamp your passport with the visa, noting the entry date and the 90-day validity. Check the stamp before leaving the counter.
5
Proceed to baggage claim and exit
After immigration, collect your luggage and pass through customs. Keep your passport handy for any spot checks.
Download Malawi Entry Checklist
PDF · New Zealand Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated August 6, 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:
Business visa (single entry)
Max stay90 days
Validity3 months from issue
Cost$100
Requires invitation letter from Malawian company.
Multiple entry visa
Max stay90 days per visit
Validity6 months
Cost$150
For frequent travellers; apply at Malawi High Commission in Canberra or London.
work visa
Temporary Employment Permit
1 year, renewable
~$200 USD
For foreign nationals with a job offer in Malawi. Requires employer sponsorship and labour market test. Allows long-term stay.
student visa
Student Visa
Duration of studies, renewable
~$100 USD
For those enrolled in a recognised educational institution in Malawi. Requires acceptance letter and proof of funds.
investor visa
Investor Permit
2 years, renewable
~$500 USD
For individuals investing a minimum amount (e.g., $250,000) in Malawi. Requires business plan and proof of investment.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Visa on arrival (single entry, 90 days)Payable in USD, GBP, EUR, or MWK cash at port of entry. | $75 (USD equivalent in cash) |
| Visa extension (per 3 months)Apply at Department of Immigration in Lilongwe or Blantyre. | $100 (approx.) |
| Exit feeNo separate exit fee for most travellers. | Included in airfare |
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 Malawi
No transit visa needed
New Zealand passport holders transiting through Malawi (e.g., at Lilongwe or Blantyre) do not require a transit visa if staying airside and continuing within 24 hours.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Exceptions & conditions
- If leaving the airport transit area, a visa on arrival is required.
Transit hubsLilongwe International Airport (LLW) · Chileka International Airport (BLZ)
Health & vaccines for Malawi
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired if arriving from a country with yellow fever risk.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidEssentialRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio)RecommendedRabiesConsider
Health risks
MalariaHigh risk
Malaria is prevalent throughout Malawi, especially in low-lying areas.
CholeraModerate risk
Outbreaks occur, especially during rainy season. Practice food and water safety.
SchistosomiasisModerate risk
Risk from swimming in freshwater lakes and rivers. Avoid swimming in untreated water.
Malaria risk: high
Malaria is present year-round. Prophylaxis recommended for all travellers. Use mosquito repellent and nets.
Based on CDC and WHO guidance. Consult a travel medicine clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalised advice.
Immigration offices for extensions
Lilongwe
Department of Immigration and Citizenship Services - Headquarters
Private Bag 331, Lilongwe 3
Mon–Fri 08:00–16:30
Main office for visa extensions and permits. Bring passport, photos, and fee.
Blantyre
Immigration Office - Blantyre
Chichiri, Blantyre
Mon–Fri 08:00–16:30
Regional office for visa-related services in the south.
Practical information for NZ travellers
Country basics
CapitalLilongwe
LanguageEnglish, Chichewa
Driving sideLeft-hand traffic
US driving licenceUS visitors can drive with a valid US license for up to 90 days; an International Driving Permit is recommended.
Money
CurrencyMalawian kwacha (MWK)
Exchange rate
1 USD = 1,739.97 MWK
Time zone
Local timeUTC+2
vs New York+7h
vs Los Angeles+10h
Electricity
Voltage230V / 50Hz
Plug types
GType G (three rectangular prongs, UK standard)
⚠ 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
Visa on arrival is available at major airports (Lilongwe and Blantyre) and most land border crossings, but it's safest to use the international airports. Some smaller border posts may not have the facility — check with your transport provider if crossing by land.
The fee varies by nationality but is typically around $50–$100 USD. Pay in cash — US dollars or Malawian kwacha. Bring small bills, as change may not be available for large notes.
No, the visa is not extendable. You must leave Malawi before the 90 days are up. If you need to stay longer, you'd have to exit and re-enter, but that's not guaranteed to reset the clock — plan accordingly.
Only if you're arriving from a country with yellow fever risk. If you've been in sub-Saharan Africa or South America before entering Malawi, carry your certificate. It's not required for direct travel from New Zealand.
No — New Zealand passport holders are not eligible for Malawi's eVisa. You must get your visa on arrival at the border. Don't bother with the eVisa portal; it won't work for you.
You'll likely be denied entry. Immigration officers strictly enforce the 6-month rule. Renew your passport before traveling.
No — the visa fee is cash only. Credit cards are not accepted at immigration. Use USD or MWK, and have the exact amount if possible.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on August 6, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.