Harare Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Travelers visiting Harare, Zimbabwe, must comply with standard immigration requirements upon arrival. Entry is typically granted through Harare International Airport (HRE) or designated land borders. The process involves presenting a valid passport, visa (if required), and proof of onward travel. Immigration officials may also ask about the purpose of your visit and accommodation details. It is important to ensure all travel documents are in order before departure, as entry is at the discretion of Zimbabwean immigration authorities. Visitors should be aware that entry requirements can vary based on nationality, with some countries enjoying visa-free access, others requiring an eVisa, and some needing a traditional visa obtained in advance. All travelers must have at least two blank pages in their passport for entry and exit stamps. Overstaying your visa is a serious offense and can result in fines, detention, or deportation. Before traveling, verify the latest entry rules, as policies can change. Ensure your passport has at least six months of validity remaining from your date of entry. Travelers are advised to carry copies of important documents and to be prepared for potential delays during the immigration process, during peak travel seasons.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Zimbabwe's visa policy categorizes countries based on nationality. Many visitors can obtain a visa on arrival or an eVisa, while others must apply in advance. The eVisa system is the recommended method for those who require one.

Visa-Free Entry

Typically up to 90 days

Citizens of select countries can enter Zimbabwe for tourism without a visa.

Includes

Singapore Malaysia Kenya Botswana Namibia South Africa Malawi Mozambique Angola Zambia

Visa-free access is primarily for tourism. For other purposes (business, work), a visa may still be required. Always confirm with official sources as agreements can change.

Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA/eVisa)

Typically 30 days for a single-entry tourist visa.

Most travelers, including those from major Western nations, must obtain an eVisa online before travel or can get a visa on arrival (though eVisa is strongly recommended).

Includes

United States United Kingdom Canada Australia All European Union (EU) countries China India Japan

How to Apply: Apply online through the official Zimbabwe eVisa portal. Processing usually takes 2-5 business days. You must apply before your trip and present the approval letter upon arrival.
Cost: Approximately $30 - $75 USD depending on visa type (e.g., single-entry tourist, double-entry).

The KAZA Univisa (covering Zimbabwe and Zambia for tourism) is available at certain ports of entry for eligible nationalities, costing $50 USD for up to 30 days (valid for multiple entries between the two countries). The eVisa is the most reliable method to avoid delays at the airport.

Visa Required

As determined by the embassy.

Nationals of a limited number of countries must apply for a traditional visa at a Zimbabwean embassy or consulate before travel.

How to Apply: Contact the nearest Zimbabwean diplomatic mission to submit an application, which typically requires an application form, passport photos, flight itinerary, and proof of funds.

This list is small but can include countries like Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and Nigeria. Always check the official immigration website for the most current list.

Arrival Process

Upon arrival at Harare International Airport (HRE), follow signs to Immigration. The process is generally straightforward but can be slow during busy periods.

Health Check

You may be asked to present a yellow fever vaccination certificate if you are arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.

Immigration Desk

Present your passport, printed eVisa approval letter (if applicable), and completed immigration form. Your photo will be taken, and fingerprints may be scanned. Be prepared to state your purpose of visit and show proof of accommodation.

Passport Stamp

The immigration officer will stamp your passport with an entry visa (if obtained on arrival) and an entry date stamp, noting your permitted duration of stay.

Baggage Claim and Customs

Proceed to collect your luggage and then pass through the customs declaration channel (Green 'Nothing to Declare' or Red 'Goods to Declare').

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Must have at least six months validity remaining and at least two blank visa pages.

Visa or eVisa Approval

Required for most nationalities. Have a printed copy of your eVisa approval letter.

Proof of Onward/Return Travel

A confirmed flight ticket exiting Zimbabwe.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Immigration may ask for evidence you can support yourself during your stay (e.g., bank statements, cash).

Proof of Accommodation

A hotel booking confirmation or invitation letter from a host.

Completed Immigration Form

A Disembarkation/Embarkation (ED) card, usually provided on the plane or at the airport.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Apply for your eVisa well in advance of your trip to avoid last-minute issues.

Have all documents (passport, visa, tickets, accommodation) organized and easily accessible for the immigration officer.

Answer immigration questions politely, clearly, and concisely.

Keep the stamped portion of your immigration form safe, as you may need to present it upon departure.

Carry some US dollars in cash (clean, un-torn bills post-2006) as it is widely accepted, but also have local currency (Zimbabwean Dollars - ZWL) for smaller expenses.

Customs & Duty-Free

Zimbabwe has standard customs regulations. Travelers must declare certain items upon arrival and are subject to duty-free allowances.

Alcohol

5 liters of wine and 2 liters of spirits per person over 18 years.

Alcohol must be for personal consumption only.

Tobacco

200 cigarettes, 50 cigars, or 250 grams of tobacco per person over 18 years.

Must be for personal use.

Currency

Any amount over $10,000 USD (or equivalent) must be declared upon both entry and exit.

Declaration is mandatory. Failure to declare can lead to seizure of funds and penalties.

Gifts/Goods

Personal effects and gifts up to a reasonable value for personal use.

Commercial goods or items exceeding a reasonable personal allowance may be subject to duty.

Prohibited Items

Illegal drugs and narcotics
Counterfeit currency and goods
Pornographic material
Unlicensed firearms and ammunition
Hazardous materials
Protected wildlife products (ivory, rhino horn) without CITES permits

Restricted Items

Prescription medications - must be in original packaging, accompanied by a doctor's prescription, and only reasonable quantities for personal use.
Plants, seeds, and agricultural products - require phytosanitary certificates.
Pets - require an import permit and veterinary health certificate.
Drones - require prior approval from the Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe.

Health Requirements

Health requirements focus on preventing the spread of infectious diseases. Malaria is a risk in many parts of Zimbabwe, including Harare, though it is lower risk in the city itself.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travelers aged 1 year or over arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission, and for travelers having transited for more than 12 hours through an airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.

Recommended Vaccinations

Routine vaccinations (MMR, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella, polio, influenza)
Hepatitis A
Typhoid
Hepatitis B (for longer stays or specific exposures)
Rabies (for outdoor activities/animal handlers)
Cholera (recommended during outbreaks or for humanitarian workers)

Health Insurance

Complete travel health insurance, including medical evacuation coverage, is highly recommended but not legally required for entry. Medical facilities in Harare are reasonable for basic care, but serious conditions often require evacuation.

Current Health Requirements: As of late 2024, there are no COVID-19 vaccination or testing requirements for entry into Zimbabwe. However, this is subject to change; check the latest travel advisories and the Zimbabwe Ministry of Health website for updates.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Embassy/Consulate

Find your country's embassy or consulate in Harare before you travel.

Check your government's travel advisory website (e.g., US State Department, UK FCDO) for contact details and registration information.

Immigration Authority

Zimbabwe Department of Immigration

For official visa information and applications: www.evisa.gov.zw

Emergency

Emergency services number

Police: 995, Ambulance: 994, Fire: 993. For general emergencies, you can also dial 112 from a mobile phone. It is advisable to also have contact numbers for your embassy and hotel security.

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Minors (under 18) traveling to Zimbabwe may be required to present an unabridged birth certificate. If traveling with one parent or without parents, notarized consent letters from the non-accompanying parent(s) or guardians are strongly recommended and may be requested by immigration to combat child trafficking. Check the latest requirements with the Department of Immigration before travel.

Traveling with Pets

Pets (dogs and cats) require an import permit from the Department of Veterinary Services. They must have a valid rabies vaccination certificate (administered at least 30 days prior to entry but within 12 months), a veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of travel, and may be subject to quarantine upon arrival.

Extended Stays

To extend a tourist visa, you must apply at the Zimbabwe Department of Immigration headquarters in Harare before your current visa expires. Extensions are granted at the discretion of immigration officials and typically require a valid reason, proof of sufficient funds, and a fee. Overstaying results in daily fines and potential complications upon departure.

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