Malawi entry requirements for United Arab Emirates passport holders
Updated weekly · Last reviewed June 28, 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
UAE passport holders need an eVisa to enter Malawi. Apply online before you travel — processing takes 3–5 working days. As of 2026, the eVisa is the standard entry method for tourism and short business trips.
Apply for Malawi eVisaOfficial portal: Malawi eVisa Portal
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| eVisa application Apply before travel | Apply for a Malawi eVisa at the official immigration portal. Processing takes up to 7 working days. Print the approval letter and carry it with your passport to present at immigration on arrival.Apply for eVisa | Required |
| Valid passport Must cover entire stay | Your passport must be valid for the full duration of your stay in Malawi. No minimum validity beyond departure is required by Malawian law, but airlines may enforce 6 months — check with your carrier before flying. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Required for entry | Immigration officers at Kamuzu International Airport routinely ask for proof of onward travel. Have a printed or digital copy of your return or onward ticket ready. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Recommended | Carry a hotel booking confirmation or an invitation letter from your host. Officers may ask for it if your stay seems unclear. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Recommended | Have bank statements or a credit card showing you can cover your stay. There is no fixed minimum amount, but showing at least $300 USD for a short trip is safe. | Recommended |
Malaria is a real risk
Malaria is high throughout Malawi, including urban areas like Lilongwe and Blantyre. Prophylaxis (e.g., atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline) is strongly recommended. Use mosquito repellent and sleep under nets.
Overstay fines add up fast
Overstaying costs USD 30 per day, capped at USD 1,000. If you need more time, visit the Department of Immigration in Lilongwe, Blantyre, or Mzuzu before your visa expires. Extensions are straightforward.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for the eVisa online
Go to immigration.gov.mw, fill in the application, upload a passport photo and your passport data page, and pay the fee (USD 75 for single entry, USD 150 for multiple entry). Processing takes 3–5 working days. You'll receive an approval letter by email — print it and keep it with your passport.
2
Pack your documents
Before heading to the airport, double-check you have: printed eVisa approval, passport with two blank pages, return ticket (printed or on your phone), hotel booking or invitation letter, and proof of funds (bank statement or cash). Also grab a pen for the arrival form.
3
Arrive at Lilongwe or Blantyre airport
Most flights from the UAE land at Lilongwe International Airport (LLW) or Chileka International Airport (BLZ). After deplaning, follow signs to immigration. Queue times vary — 15 to 45 minutes depending on flight arrivals.
4
Present documents at immigration counter
Hand over your passport, eVisa approval letter, and return ticket. The officer may ask about your accommodation and funds. Answer clearly. They'll stamp your passport and you're in — usually a 2–3 minute interaction.
5
Collect baggage and exit
After immigration, head to baggage claim, then customs. Declare any items over the duty-free limit. Exit into the arrivals hall where taxis and hotel shuttles wait.
Download Malawi Entry Checklist
PDF · United Arab Emirates Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated June 28, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Tourist Visa (Single Entry)
Max stay30 days, extendable 30 days
Validity3 months from issue
CostUSD 75 (approx. AED 275)
Apply online or at embassy. Extension possible at immigration office.
Tourist Visa (Multiple Entry)
Max stay30 days per entry, extendable
Validity6 months from issue
CostUSD 150 (approx. AED 550)
Ideal for frequent travellers. Must apply at embassy.
Business Visa
Max stay90 days, extendable
Validity6 months
CostUSD 200 (approx. AED 735)
Requires invitation letter from Malawian company.
work visa
Malawi Work Permit
1 year, renewable
USD 500 (approx. AED 1,835)
For foreign nationals employed by a Malawian company. Requires employer sponsorship and proof of qualifications.
investor visa
Malawi Investor Permit
2 years, renewable
USD 1,000 (approx. AED 3,670)
For individuals investing at least USD 250,000 in Malawi. Includes family dependents.
student visa
Malawi Student Visa
Duration of studies
USD 150 (approx. AED 550)
For enrolled students at recognized Malawian institutions. Requires admission letter and proof of funds.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| eVisa (Single Entry)Standard fee for a single-entry tourist eVisa. | USD 75 (approx. AED 275) |
| eVisa (Multiple Entry)For multiple entries within validity period. | USD 150 (approx. AED 550) |
| Overstay FineCharged for each day overstayed beyond authorized period. | USD 30 per day (max USD 1,000) |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Incomplete application20%
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
United Arab Emirates passport holders transiting through Malawi do not require a transit visa if staying airside and not passing through immigration.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Transit hubsLilongwe International Airport (LLW) · Chileka International Airport (BLZ)
Health & vaccines for Malawi
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired if arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidEssentialHepatitis BRecommendedRabiesConsiderCholeraConsider
Health risks
MalariaHigh risk
Present throughout the country, especially in lowland areas. Prophylaxis recommended.
Dengue FeverModerate risk
Occurs in urban and rural areas. Use mosquito repellent.
CholeraModerate risk
Outbreaks occur, especially during rainy season. Practice food and water safety.
Malaria risk: high
Malaria is high throughout Malawi, including urban areas. Prophylaxis (e.g., atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline) is strongly recommended.
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 Headquarters
Off Presidential Way, Capital City, Lilongwe
Mon–Fri 08:00–16:30
Main office for visa extensions and permits. Bring passport, photos, and fee.
Blantyre
Blantyre Immigration Office
Ginnery Corner, Blantyre
Mon–Fri 08:00–16:30
Handles extensions and re-entry permits for southern region.
Practical information for AE 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
No. The eVisa is mandatory for UAE passport holders. You must apply online before travel. There is no visa-on-arrival option for tourism.
Typically 3–5 working days. Apply at least a week before your trip to be safe. The fee is USD 75 for single entry, USD 150 for multiple entry.
Overstay fines are USD 30 per day, capped at USD 1,000. You can extend your stay at the Department of Immigration in Lilongwe, Blantyre, or Mzuzu. Extensions cost around USD 75 and take a day or two.
Only if you're arriving from a country with yellow fever transmission. UAE is not a risk country, so you likely don't need it. But carry your vaccination card if you've been in Africa recently.
No. The eVisa is strictly for tourism and short business visits. For work, you need a Malawi Work Permit (USD 500, 1 year, renewable) sponsored by a Malawian employer.
Malawi is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime occurs in cities. Malaria is high throughout the country — take prophylaxis. Medical facilities are limited; serious issues may require evacuation to South Africa. Travel insurance with evacuation coverage is strongly advised.
The local currency is the Malawian kwacha (MWK). US dollars are widely accepted at hotels and safari lodges. ATMs are available in cities but unreliable. Bring enough cash for your stay.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on June 28, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.