Entering Zimbabwe in 2025
Zimbabwe, home to Victoria Falls and incredible safari parks, welcomes travelers with both natural beauty and vibrant culture. In 2025, its updated eVisa and eTA systems make entering the country faster and easier than ever.
Things to Know Before Entering Zimbabwe
Before traveling to Zimbabwe, it’s important to understand the entry requirements and a few practical details that will make your trip smoother.
Visa & Entry Requirements
- Your passport must be valid for at least six months on arrival.
- Check passport information carefully before applying to avoid visa delays.
- Border officers may ask for proof of hotel bookings or other accommodation before allowing entry.
- You should also carry evidence of return or onward travel and sufficient financial means to cover your stay.
KAZA UniVisa Option
- This regional visa does cover both Zimbabwe and Zambia and permits day trips to Botswana via the Kazungula border without invalidating the visa.
- Travelers are allowed multiple crossings between the two countries.
- Day trips to Botswana are permitted under the visa’s validity, but overnight stays in Botswana require a new visa.
Currency & Payments
- Zimbabwe maintains a multi-currency system, but the US dollar remains the dominant currency for most transactions.
- Credit and debit cards are not widely accepted outside Harare or Bulawayo. Always carry small denominations of USD for taxis, park fees, and local purchases.
Health & Vaccinations
- A yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory if you arrive from or transit through an endemic country.
- Malaria is present in many regions, especially during safari trips. Bring prophylaxis and insect repellent to reduce health risks.
Traveling With Children
- Zimbabwe does require minors to present an unabridged (long-form) birth certificate when traveling internationally.
- If the child travels with only one parent (or a guardian), additional documentation is mandatory, typically a consent affidavit, plus ID or legal proof regarding the absent parent.
Zimbabwe Highlights
Capital: Harare
CAT, UTC +2
Currency: Zimbabwean dollar (ZWL)
Language: English
Subtropical, dry
Best Time to Visit:
Popular Tourist Sites:
FAQs about entering Zimbabwe
1.
Do I need a visa to enter Zimbabwe?
Yes, most travelers are required to apply for a visa to enter Zimbabwe. Depending on your nationality, you can apply for an eVisa online in advance or you may qualify for a visa on arrival. A small number of nationalities are visa-exempt, but it is best to confirm your eligibility before travel.
2.
What is the KAZA UniVisa and how does it work?
The KAZA UniVisa is a regional visa that allows unlimited travel between Zimbabwe and Zambia during its validity. It also covers day trips into Botswana through the Kazungula border. This visa is especially convenient for visitors to Victoria Falls who plan to cross the border multiple times or combine safari trips across the region.
3.
Do I need a yellow fever vaccination certificate?
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory if you are arriving from, or transiting through, a country where yellow fever is endemic. If you are not traveling from a yellow fever risk area, the certificate is not required.
4.
Can I pay with credit cards in Zimbabwe?
Credit card acceptance is limited in Zimbabwe. While some hotels and larger businesses in cities like Harare and Bulawayo may accept cards, smaller shops, safari lodges, and local services often do not. It is strongly advised to carry sufficient US dollars (cash) in small denominations for daily expenses.
5.
What types of Zimbabwe eVisa are available?
Zimbabwe offers several types of eVisas depending on your purpose of visit:
Single Entry: Allows for a single entry with no re-entry without obtaining a new visa.
Double Entry: Permits two entries within three months from the date of issue.
Multiple Entry: Permits any number of entries within six months from the date of issue.
KAZA UNIVISA: A visa valid for multiple countries.
6.
Will I need proof of accommodation when entering Zimbabwe?
Yes. Immigration officers may request to see hotel reservations or other accommodation details at the port of entry. Travelers are also advised to carry evidence of return or onward tickets and proof of sufficient funds to cover their stay.
Reliable & Up-to-Date Entry Information
We provide accurate entry requirement details that are carefully verified and updated regularly. All information is sourced directly from official government and immigration authorities, ensuring you receive the most current and trustworthy guidance before your trip.
Source: Zimbabwe Primary e‑Visa Portal: https://www.evisa.gov.zw/
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