Zambia entry requirements for Sri Lanka 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
Sri Lankan passport holders need an eVisa to enter Zambia. The single-entry tourist eVisa costs $50 USD and is valid for 90 days from issue. Apply online at least 3–5 business days before your trip — don't book flights until you get approval.
Apply for Zambia eVisaOfficial portal: Zambia eVisa Portal
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| eVisa application Apply before travel | Apply for a Zambia eVisa at the official eVisa portal. Processing takes 3–5 business days, and you'll receive a PDF approval by email. Print the approval and carry it with your passport — immigration at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport will stamp the visa on arrival.Apply for eVisa | Required |
| Valid passport Must have 6 months validity | Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date from Zambia. Airlines check this at check-in — if your passport expires sooner, you'll be denied boarding. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Proof of onward travel | Immigration officers routinely ask for a return or onward ticket at the border. Have a printed or digital copy of your flight itinerary ready. If you're overlanding out, a bus ticket or ferry booking also works. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel booking or invitation letter | Carry a printed hotel reservation or an invitation letter from your host in Zambia. Immigration may ask where you're staying — having a booking confirmation speeds things up. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Show you can support yourself | Have bank statements or a credit card ready to show you have enough money for your stay. Immigration rarely asks, but if they do, $500–$1,000 equivalent in cash or a recent statement is sufficient. | Recommended |
Don't book flights before eVisa approval
Processing takes 3–5 business days and can be delayed. Book refundable flights or wait for the approval email. A rejected eVisa means you can't board.
Malaria is a real risk
Malaria is present throughout Zambia, especially in rural areas. Prophylaxis is recommended for all travellers. Use insect repellent and mosquito nets. Medical facilities in Lusaka and Livingstone are adequate for basic care, but serious cases may require evacuation — travel insurance with medical evacuation is strongly advised.
Transit without visa is fine
If you're transiting through Zambia and staying airside (not passing through immigration), you don't need a visa for up to 48 hours. This applies at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (Lusaka) and Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport (Livingstone).
What happens at the border
1
Apply for the eVisa online
Go to evisa.zambiaimmigration.gov.zm, fill in your details, upload a passport photo and a scan of your passport bio-data page. Pay $50 USD by credit card. You'll get a confirmation email. Processing takes 3–5 business days — check your spam folder.
2
Pack your documents
Print your eVisa approval email, your passport (valid 6+ months), return ticket, and hotel booking. Also save digital copies on your phone. Keep a photocopy of your passport bio-data page separate from the original.
3
Arrive at the airport in Zambia
At Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (Lusaka) or Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport (Livingstone), go to immigration. Present your passport, eVisa approval, and return ticket. The officer may ask about your accommodation and funds. Answer clearly. You'll get an entry stamp valid for up to 90 days.
4
Collect your luggage and exit
After immigration, collect your bags from the carousel, then proceed to customs. Declare any goods over $500 USD or restricted items. Then you're free to enter Zambia.
Download Zambia Entry Checklist
PDF · Sri Lanka 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 stay90 days
Validity3 months from issue
Cost$50 USD
Standard tourist visa, non-extendable.
Tourist visa (multiple entry)
Max stay90 days per entry
Validity6 months from issue
Cost$80 USD
Allows multiple entries, suitable for frequent travellers.
Business visa
Max stay90 days
Validity3 months from issue
Cost$70 USD
Requires invitation letter from Zambian company.
work visa
Employment Permit
Up to 2 years, renewable
$500 USD
For those with a job offer from a Zambian employer. Requires employer sponsorship and proof of qualifications.
investor visa
Investor Permit
Up to 5 years, renewable
$1,000 USD
For individuals investing at least $250,000 USD in Zambia. Requires proof of investment and business plan.
student visa
Student Permit
Duration of studies, renewable annually
$200 USD
For enrolled students at recognized Zambian institutions. Requires acceptance letter and proof of funds.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| eVisa (Single Entry)Standard fee for tourist eVisa, valid for up to 90 days. | $50 USD (approx. 15,000 LKR) |
| eVisa (Multiple Entry)Allows multiple entries within validity period. | $80 USD (approx. 24,000 LKR) |
| Overstay Fine (per day)Charged for each day overstayed beyond visa validity. | $30 USD (approx. 9,000 LKR) |
| Stay Extension (per month)Extension possible at immigration offices, subject to approval. | $50 USD (approx. 15,000 LKR) |
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 Zambia
No transit visa needed
Sri Lanka passport holders transiting through Zambia do not need a transit visa if staying airside and not passing through immigration.
Airside transitAllowed up to 48h
Transit hubsKenneth Kaunda International Airport (Lusaka) · Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport (Livingstone)
Health & vaccines for Zambia
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired if arriving from a country with yellow fever risk.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidEssentialRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio)EssentialRabiesRecommendedCholeraConsider
Health risks
MalariaHigh risk
Present throughout the country, especially in rural areas.
Dengue feverModerate risk
Occurs in urban and semi-urban areas, especially during rainy season.
CholeraLow risk
Risk increases during rainy season in areas with poor sanitation.
Malaria risk: high
Prophylaxis recommended for all travellers, especially in rural areas. Use insect repellent and mosquito 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. Arrive early.
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 LK 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 = 18.22 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
No. Sri Lanka is not eligible for visa on arrival. You must get an eVisa before you travel. Apply at evisa.zambiaimmigration.gov.zm at least 3–5 business days before your flight.
Processing usually takes 3–5 business days. It can be faster, but don't count on it. Do not book non-refundable flights until you receive the approval email. Check your spam folder.
The standard tourist eVisa is not extendable. If you need to stay longer, you must apply for a different permit before your visa expires. Visit the Department of Immigration Headquarters in Lusaka (Plot 1, Independence Avenue) or the Livingstone Immigration Office. Overstaying costs $30 USD per day, capped at $300 USD.
You'll be fined $30 USD per day, with a maximum fine of $300 USD. Pay at the immigration office before you leave. Overstaying can also affect future visa applications.
Yellow fever vaccine is required if you are arriving from a country with yellow fever risk. It's not required if you're flying directly from Sri Lanka. But it's recommended for all travellers — carry your yellow fever certificate just in case.
No. The tourist eVisa is for tourism only. If you have a job offer, you need an Employment Permit ($500 USD, up to 2 years, renewable). Apply through your employer before you travel.
Common reasons: insufficient funds, no return ticket, or incomplete application. Check the rejection email for details. You can reapply with corrected information. If you're unsure, contact the Zambia Department of Immigration at +260 211 252 622.
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.