Zambia eVisa for Lebanon Citizens

The country of Zambia, where the Victoria falls and incredible wildlife interactions in such extensive reserves as South Luangwa simply scream of the awe-inspiring magnificence, calls upon the attention of visitors on the global level. To ensure that the citizens of Lebanon have the most efficient and essential method to ensure that they obtain an entry permission permit, the Electronic Visa (eVisa) system serves as the most effective and mandatory method to obtain entry permission to the beautiful Southern African nation.

Lebanese passport holders must obtain their visa prior to traveling, unlike some countries whose passport holders are allowed to go to the foreign country using Visa on Arrival (VOA). This guide on the Zambia eVisa for Lebanon Citizens will explain the particulars of Lebanese applicants, the process of the application, the types of available visas, and answer all your most important questions on a step-free trip from the Middle East to the very center of Africa.

Do Lebanese Need a Visa to Zambia?

Yes, a visa is mandatory for Lebanese passport holders entering Zambia, and it must be pre-approved.

Lebanese citizens are classified by the Zambian Department of Immigration as nationals requiring a visa prior to travel. This means you must apply online through the official e-services portal and receive your official eVisa approval letter before departing from Lebanon. The Visa on Arrival (VOA) facility is generally not available for Lebanese nationals. This pre-approval system ensures that all necessary checks are completed, guaranteeing a smoother entry at the Zambian port of arrival.

How Do Lebanese Citizens Apply for a Zambian e-Visa Online?

The Zambian eVisa system is robust and secure, allowing you to complete the entire application digitally. The process is straightforward:

1. Select Visa Type: Choose the visa category that matches your purpose (e.g., Ordinary/Tourist, Business, or Transit).
2. Application Submission: Fill out the electronic application form with your passport information, intended travel dates, and accommodation details.
3. Document Upload: Digitally upload all the mandatory supporting documents (see next section) in the required formats (JPEG, PNG, or TIFF).
4. Review and Confirmation: Carefully review all the data entered to prevent discrepancies. Confirm the application submission.
5. Fee Payment: Pay the non-refundable visa processing fee online via a secure credit or debit card gateway.
6. Receive Approval: Once the application is approved by the Director General of Immigration, you will receive your official eVisa approval letter via email. You must print this letter and present it, along with your passport, upon arrival in Zambia.

What Documents are Needed for a Zambian eVisa Application for Lebanese Citizens?

The documentation required for Ordinary/Tourist and Transit applications is minimal but must be clear and complete Zambia e-visa documents requirements:

• Passport Bio Page Copy: A high-quality scan of your passport’s bio page. The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your entry date into Zambia and should have a minimum of two blank pages.
• Recent Applicant Photo: A standard, recent passport-sized color photograph that adheres to international guidelines.
• Confirmed Return/Onward Air Ticket: Proof of your confirmed itinerary showing your planned exit from Zambia.
• Cover Letter: A brief, signed letter from you (the applicant) addressed to the Director General of Immigration, detailing the purpose of your trip and travel itinerary.
• Proof of Accommodation: A confirmed hotel booking for your entire stay or a signed letter of invitation from your host in Zambia, including their contact details and proof of their immigration status (e.g., National Registration Card or Permit Copy).

What Other Visa Options Exist for Traveling Between Zambia and Zimbabwe?

Travelers whose itineraries include exploring the broader region should consider the KAZA UNIVISA (Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area).

• Dual Country Access: This special visa allows tourists to obtain a single entry permit to visit both Zambia and Zimbabwe multiple times within the validity period.
• Botswana Day Trips: The KAZA UNIVISA also permits day excursions into Botswana (via the Kazungula border) for activities like visiting Chobe National Park, without requiring a separate visa for Botswana.
• Validity and Stay: The KAZA UNIVISA is typically valid for up to 30 days.
• Application Rule: If you apply through the Zambian e-services portal, your first entry into the KAZA zone must be via Zambia.

For Lebanese citizens planning to explore both sides of Victoria Falls, the KAZA UNIVISA is the most convenient and cost-effective solution, replacing the need to purchase separate single or double-entry visas for each country.

How Long is the Validity of a Zambian Tourist eVisa After Issuance?

The validity and permitted duration of stay depend on the specific visa type you apply for:

• Ordinary (Tourist) Visa: The visa is typically valid for entry for up to 90 days from the date it is issued. The maximum permitted stay in Zambia after entry is generally up to 90 days. You can choose Single, Double, or Multiple Entry options, all usually maintaining this 90-day validity window.
• Business Visa: The validity for entry is also typically 90 days, but the maximum stay permitted per visit is often restricted to 30 days.
• Transit Visa: This allows a maximum stay of 7 days for those transiting through overland transport.

Always confirm the specific validity and duration printed on your approved eVisa letter.

What Photos are Needed for a Zambia Visa Application?

The digital photograph is a mandatory requirement and must meet strict standards to be accepted by the system:

• Format and Size: The photo must be a digital file (JPEG, PNG, or TIFF) and should correspond to standard international passport photo dimensions (e.g., 35mm*45 mm or 2inches* 2 inches).
• Clarity and Resolution: The image must be clear, sharp, high-resolution, and taken within the last six months.
• Background: The background must be plain white or a very light color.
• Facial Requirements: Full-face view, head centered, with a neutral expression (no smiling), and no obstructions (such as headwear, unless for religious reasons).

What's the Typical Processing Time for a Zambian Business Visa Application?

The Zambian eVisa system offers tiered processing speeds. For Lebanese citizens who are required to get pre-approval, selecting the right speed is important to meet travel deadlines.

The standard processing time for any eVisa, including the Business Visa, is:It is essential to note that these timelines are estimates for working days and do not include weekends or Zambian public holidays. It is highly recommended to submit your application at least two weeks (14 days) before your departure date to avoid unnecessary stress.

What Other Documents are Needed Besides the Certificate of Incorporation for a Zambian Business Visa?

If you are applying for a Business Visa (Single, Double, or Multiple Entry), the requirements are more detailed than the tourist application to verify the legitimacy of your activities. In addition to your passport and photo, you must provide:

• Covering Letter from Applicant's Company: A letter on the Lebanese company's official letterhead addressed to the Director General of Immigration, detailing the purpose of the business visit, the applicant's role, and confirmation of financial responsibility.
• Invitation Letter from Zambian Host Company: A formal invitation letter from the host company or organization in Zambia, also addressed to the Director General of Immigration, stating the purpose and duration of the meetings or event.
• Certified Copy of Certificate of Incorporation: Proof of the Zambian host company's legal registration and status in the country.

Can Travel Agents Help if a Visa Application Has Issues?

Yes, professional assistance from a dedicated visa agent or travel service provider is highly beneficial, especially for applications that require pre-clearance like those for Lebanese citizens, or if you encounter issues.

A dedicated agent plays several critical roles:

• Document Review and Compliance: They meticulously check all uploaded documents against the latest Zambian immigration rules, ensuring photos, passport scans, and letters meet strict specifications, drastically reducing the risk of rejection.
• Application Pre-Filing and Accuracy: They manage the data entry and form completion, ensuring accuracy and consistency with your passport details, which is a common cause of delays.
• Status Tracking and Communication: They proactively monitor your application status in real-time and act as a liaison with the immigration department if additional documents are requested.
• Access to Expedited Services: Agents often manage the workflow to utilize the quickest possible processing tiers (Rush and Super Rush) to meet tight deadlines.

Your African Adventure Starts Now

Zambia eVisa is the key to having the amazing sights and the rich culture of Southern Africa, and getting your eVisa in Lebanon is the most important thing to do. With proper adherence to these tips, pre-approval, and proper preparation of your documents, you can expect a hassle-free experience and an amazing Zambian expedition!