Zambia Work Visa Process
The Work Visa process is specific to each company and foreign national, depending on role requirements and employer compliance. Employers are expected to make reasonable efforts to promote the integration and development of qualified Zambian nationals.
Foreign nationals may be employed under the following frameworks:
- Temporary Employment Permit
- Employment Permit
Types of Visas and Permits
Zambia offers a range of visa and permit options for foreign nationals travelling for business, short-term assignments, or long-term employment. The appropriate visa or permit will depend on the purpose and duration of stay, as well as the nature of the work to be undertaken in Zambia.
BUSINESS VISA
A Business Visa is issued to foreign nationals travelling to Zambia for short-term business-related activities. This visa permits activities such as attending meetings, conferences, site visits, or conducting exploratory business engagements, but it does not authorise the holder to take up formal employment.
A Business Visa is granted for a maximum of 90 days within a 12-month (365-day) period. Each entry into Zambia is recorded, and the number of days spent in-country is deducted from the total allocation. Subsequent visits within the same 12-month cycle will utilise the remaining balance of days available.
TEMPORARY EMPLOYMENT PERMIT
The Temporary Employment Permit is designed for short-term work assignments in Zambia. To apply, the applicant must be physically present in Zambia, having entered on a Business Visa. Applications are submitted in-country to the Department of Immigration Zambia.
The permit is typically issued for a period of up to 90 days and may be renewed twice while the applicant remains in Zambia. This option is generally utilised for urgent, short-term projects or assignments where immediate deployment is required.
EMPLOYMENT PERMIT
The Employment Permit is intended for long-term employment in Zambia and is suitable for foreign nationals taking up formal roles with a Zambian-registered employer. The employer acts as the sponsor and must demonstrate that the position has been advertised and cannot be filled by a suitably qualified Zambian citizen.
A key requirement for this permit is the evaluation of the applicant’s qualifications by the Zambia Qualifications Authority (ZAQA), ensuring that foreign qualifications meet local standards.
Employment Permits are generally issued for up to two years and are renewable, subject to continued employment and compliance with immigration requirements.
Important Considerations
ZAMBIA QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY
The Zambia Qualifications Authority (ZAQA) is the official body responsible for evaluating foreign academic qualifications. This process confirms that the applicant’s degree, diploma, or certificate is authentic and equivalent to Zambian standards. A ZAQA evaluation certificate is typically required as part of an Employment Permit Application.
PROFESSIONAL BODY REGISTRATION
Certain occupations in Zambia are regulated by statutory professional bodies (e.g. engineering, medical, legal, and accounting professions). Where applicable, foreign nationals must register with the relevant professional body in order to legally practise their profession in Zambia. This ensures that the individual meets the required professional and ethical standards within the country.
Start Your Zambian Work Visa Application Today
Our immigration specialists provide end-to-end support, from assessing the correct visa or permit option to managing applications, compliance requirements, and ongoing renewals. We simplify the process so you can focus on your business objectives while we handle the administrative complexities. Fill in the form to speak to our team and receive tailored assistance.
