Zambia will waive visa requirements for nationals from 53 additional countries starting January 1, 2025, building on its successful 2022 initiative that relaxed visa restrictions for major tourism markets. This move increases the total number of visa-exempt countries to 167, as Zambia continues to lead in progressive tourism policies within southern Africa.
The announcement, formalized through Statutory Instrument No. 78 of 2024, follows a broader effort by the Zambian government to enhance the country’s appeal as a destination for international tourists.
Stronger Borders and Streamlined Immigration
President Hakainde Hichilema’s government revealed that, alongside the visa liberalization, heightened border security measures will be implemented. This includes the introduction of an advanced passenger information system and the deployment of more than 900 new immigration officers across the country. New immigration control points are also being established to manage the influx of visitors expected from the visa changes.
Zambia’s liberalized visa policy aligns with the African Union’s vision for improved continental mobility and complements the goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area. The government’s strategy to balance open borders with robust security measures aims to strengthen Zambia’s position as a leading example of sustainable tourism growth in Africa.
Industry Leaders Praise Zambia’s Approach
Jillian Blackbeard, CEO of Africa’s Eden, praised Zambia’s approach, highlighting that the country’s decision to ease visa restrictions demonstrates a clear understanding of the tourism sector’s needs. She noted that the success of Zambia’s 2022 visa waiver program had already transformed the accessibility of the country as a tourist destination.
“Zambia is proving that it is possible to grow tourism while managing borders effectively. This approach should be a model for other nations,” Blackbeard said.
South Africa’s Visa Reforms and Regional Contrast
South Africa, too, is making strides in visa liberalization. The country will launch the Trusted Tour Operator Scheme (TTOS) in January 2025, aimed at easing visa processes for large tour groups from China and India. The scheme is expected to streamline applications and reduce bureaucratic delays, addressing key barriers to tourism from these vital markets.
In contrast, Namibia has announced plans to impose new visa requirements for 31 countries, including some major tourism sources, effective April 2025. Critics argue that these restrictions could negatively impact tourism during a critical period of recovery.
A Growing Regional Divide
David Frost, CEO of the Southern Africa Tourism Services Association (Satsa), expressed concerns about Namibia’s shift in visa policy, warning that it could undermine efforts to grow the tourism sector in the region.
“While Zambia and South Africa are showing the benefits of visa openness, Namibia’s new restrictions could have the opposite effect,” Frost said. “Zambia’s success proves that visa liberalization can boost tourism significantly.”
As Zambia and South Africa continue to lead the region in promoting open borders, the contrast with Namibia’s approach underscores a growing divide in southern Africa’s tourism policies. The ongoing commitment to visa liberalization in Zambia and South Africa is expected to further solidify their positions as leading destinations for international travelers, setting a strong example of how policy innovation can fuel sustainable tourism growth.