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  • 04 Feb, 2026

The KAZA Univisa: Your Gateway to Two African Nations

The KAZA Univisa: Your Gateway to Two African Nations

Planning a trip to Zimbabwe and Zambia? The KAZA Univisa makes visa rules simple. The KAZA Univisa lets eligible travelers move freely between the two countries. The KAZA Univisa lets you see the best of both nations, without paperwork. The KAZA Univisa is especially useful if you want to stand on both sides of Victoria Falls. Tourists whom we advised and used the KAZA Univisa on their trips have saved both money and time.

The KAZA Univisa does not cover all nationalities.  
The KAZA Univisa currently allows citizens of than 65 nationalities to apply.  
The KAZA Univisa gives a way to travel in Zimbabwe and Zambia.  
Before you book a trip check your eligibility for the KAZA Univisa based on your citizenship.  
You can check on the websites of the Zimbabwean immigration authority and the Zambian immigration authority for the correct and up to date information.  
The immigration offices process the KAZA Univisa at specific border points, major airports and land crossings. Knowing these authorized entry and exit points beforehand is key to a smooth journey.

Cost-Benefit Analysis: Univisa vs. Single-Country Visas
I have seen that the KAZA Univisa can save you money compared with getting visas for each country. A quick look, at the costs shows the savings. The KAZA Univisa has limits. If your travel goes beyond Zimbabwe and Zambia the KAZA Univisa may not cover everything. If you want to visit Southern African countries you may still need separate visas even with the KAZA Univisa.

Maximizing Your KAZA Univisa: Itinerary Recommendations
Travelers who want to see the shared wonder Victoria Falls can use the KAZA Univisa for flexibility. You can spend a days exploring the Zimbabwe side of Victoria Falls. Then you can cross into Zambia for a view and for wildlife watching. The KAZA Univisa allows movement, between the two countries without separate visa steps. The KAZA Univisa gives an immersive travel experience.

Important Limitations: Business Activities and Third-Country Travel
The KAZA Univisa is very convenient for tourism but the KAZA Univisa has limits. The KAZA Univisa does not allow business activities in either country. You must get business visas for any commercial work. The KAZA Univisa usually does not let you sleep overnight to countries outside Zimbabwe and Zambia. If your itinerary includes destinations you will need extra visas, for those countries.

Practical Application Tactics and Current Availability
The KAZA Univisa requires you to fill out a form and pay a fee of $50 at the border/airport when you arrive. The KAZA Univisa rules can change so the KAZA Univisa requirements may be different from what you expect. You should check the information on official websites or travel forums. Online travel groups that focus on Africa often share tips from travelers who have used the KAZA Univisa. Those travelers’ stories can help you get ready. Notice any changes, in the process. Before you travel check the availability of the KAZA Univisa. The KAZA Univisa has been temporarily suspended before so you need to verify the KAZA Univisa. Also cross check with government websites or call the embassies to see the KAZA Univisa status. Confirm the status of the KAZA Univisa. Adjust your visa plans if the KAZA Univisa is not available.

Traveling With Minors: Ensuring Smooth Entry for Families
When I helped families travel to Zimbabwe I learned that parents or guardians who travel with a minor need papers. Parents or guardians must bring a copy of the child’s birth certificate that shows both parents’ names. If one parent travels the traveling parent must have a permission letter, from the other parent that allows the child to travel.

When a minor travels with a guardian I always carry the court appointed guardianship documents. You must show the court appointed guardianship documents when we arrive or we will face problems. I have learned that showing the court appointed guardianship documents away saves time.

Diplomatic and Official Passport Holders: Expedited Processes and Exemptions
Holders of passports or holders of official passports often get a simpler visa process. The visa process depends on the citizenship of the holder. Many countries have agreements, with Zimbabwe. The bilateral agreements give staff exemptions.

The exemptions cover visa entry and faster processing. I check the terms of each agreement because the agreements differ by nationality and, by passport type. Verify the terms of each agreement before you travel.

Transit Passengers: Visa Requirements During Layovers
I have seen that transit visa requirements depend on the layover, in Zimbabwe. If the traveler stays within the international transit area and does not officially enter Zimbabwe a visa is typically not required. No visa needed.

However, leaving the airport, even briefly, might require a transit visa, especially for extended layovers or significant time between flights.

Frequent Business Travelers: Multiple-Entry Visas and Long-Term Permits
In my experience frequent business travelers to Zimbabwe need to think about multiple-entry visas or long-term business permits. Frequent business travelers to Zimbabwe can use multiple-entry visas to go out of the country many times during a set period usually one year. Multiple-entry visas last, for one year.

I have learned that long-term permits are for stays. I have learned that long-term permits often need investment or employment in Zimbabwe. Qualifying for a long-term permit usually means you must show a business need. Qualifying for a long-term permit also means you must show an established presence, in the country.

Regional Exemptions Through SADC Agreements: Preferential Treatment for Member States
I have noticed that citizens of Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries often get the visa treatment. Citizens of Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries travel visa free for the period usually up to 90 days. Many SADC members also enjoy the visa entry, for the short period, usually 90 days. That makes travel easier.

These agreements promote integration and make travel easier for neighbors. The agreements give exemptions and set allowed stay durations based on the nationality of the traveler and the agreement between Zimbabwe and the traveler’s country. Someone might be interested, in: Our sitemap page.

Emergency and Humanitarian Situations: Expedited Pathways and Special Considerations
I have learned that when there is an emergency or a humanitarian situation Zimbabwe can give a visa or special treatment. Zimbabwe offers this for the emergencies for the family crises and, for the humanitarian aid work.

Contact the nearest Zimbabwean embassy or consulate directly to explain the circumstances and seek guidance. Supporting documentation, like medical records or official letters, is crucial.

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