Entry to Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe is among the most popular countries for tourists in southern Africa. The country is located between Mozambique, South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, and Zambia. It is home to unique fauna and a typical African savannah landscape. Among vast grasslands, you can observe elephants, giraffes, and lions on safari from a safe distance. At the border to Zambia, there is the largest artificial reservoir in the world to admire. And also in cultural terms, the African nation knows how to inspire. Zimbabwe is the scene of numerous films, music festivals, and local customs. As a multi-ethnic state with a large number of ethnic groups, the traditions within the country can differ greatly from each other. Immerse yourself in a foreign culture and enjoy the change of scenery!

The entry to Zimbabwe is possible throughout the year. The months from September to May are particularly recommended. During this time, a warm climate prevails. From spring to autumn is the dry season. In the remaining months of the year, the climate tends to be more humid. However, you can enjoy the advantages of the country at any time of the year. To really enjoy your holiday stay, you need, apart from a current passport, the right residence permit. We are happy to assist you with this. As a professional service provider in the field of visa issuance, we take care of your concerns. We have maintained good relations with embassies around the world for years and have been able to build up an extensive network over the years. When entering, we support you by providing easy-to-understand application forms. We also take care of forwarding the visa application to the authorities for you in an uncomplicated manner. This way, you can focus entirely on your trip.

German citizens must present a valid residence permit for travel to the country. A valid passport is required for this. It is not possible to enter Zimbabwe with an identity card. There are several types of visas for the South African country. The e-visa is very popular. You should apply for it via our website. There you must fill out an application form. Requirements for the application are a passport photo and sufficient funds. After the application is approved, you may stay in the country for up to 90 days. For other purposes, there are also business visas and residence permits for students. However, the ordinary tourist visa is completely sufficient for most travelers. You can get current information from the Foreign Office.

The possibility of a residence permit is available directly at the airport in Zimbabwe. There, the friendly staff will verify your identity and issue a tourist visa. On our website, you can easily fill out your visa application in advance. There we guide you step by step through the application process. First, you must choose what type of residence permit you are seeking. Afterwards, we will guide you through the procedure in a simple way. The Zimbabwean authorities usually approve the form quickly. After that, you are free to explore the country as you wish. With the stamp in your passport, you are always on the safe side. As a citizen of another nation, you can look forward to a diverse country.

The Robert Koch Institute advises travelers to check their vaccination status in advance. The Zimbabwean authorities currently require a complete basic immunization against the coronavirus or alternatively a negative PCR test. Because the related requirements are constantly changing, you should always look for current information in the media . Further vaccinations are not planned. However, some vaccines are recommended for tourist stays. These include preparations against tetanus, hepatitis A, and rabies. Also, those vaccinated against typhoid and hepatitis B are on the safe side. The latter is especially true for longer planned trips. If you have been in a yellow fever risk area beforehand, you must also present a vaccination against the virus. Vaccinated persons can be asked to show the documents at any time. It is best to take the yellow WHO vaccination passport with you.

Entry with a child is easily possible. For this, the little ones need their own child's passport. It should still be valid for at least 6 months upon arrival at the airport. The passports should be in good condition and readable by machines. The local registration offices issue all necessary documents for a fee. The child's passport has a duration of one year and expires at the age of 12. Unlike for adults, the photo requirements are somewhat less strict. However, the photo should still be biometric. The processing usually takes a few weeks at most registration offices. Therefore, you should apply in good time before the trip.

Initially, you should report the taking of your dog to the responsible authority. They provide you with all the information and, if the conditions are met, issue a permit for the entry of the dog. The South African country requires all dog owners to carry all important documents. Required are a vaccination proof against rabies (not older than 1 year) and ideally a health certificate written in English. The latter can be obtained for a fee from experienced veterinarians. He examines your animal thoroughly and can then certify its health. However, proof of rabies antibody titers is not required.

The import of goods into Zimbabwe is precisely regulated by government regulations. Each person is allowed to import up to a maximum value of 250 US dollars of personal consumables. If you want to take a gift, alcoholic beverages up to 5 liters are allowed. This includes 2 liters of spirits and other types of spirits, such as liqueurs, brandy, rum, or similar. The import of goods must be declared in many cases with a so-called Custom Declaration, the declaration for dutiable goods. All goods that exceed the allowed quantities must be specified there. The customs declarations are usually available from the airlines or at the airport itself. If you have any questions, you can contact the embassy of the country. They will assist you with any issues. At the Foreign Office you can find additional links to the current customs regulations. These may change occasionally.

Local immigration authorities at the airport are responsible for controlling customs laws. After landing, Zimbabwean authorities may conduct random checks of luggage if suspected. The travelers need not worry if they comply with the regulations. Caution should be exercised with narcotics, live plants and animals, and African cultural goods. The export of the latter is only tolerated under strict conditions. These may be subject to an import and export ban. The import of knives, drugs, certain sunscreens, and pornographic material is completely prohibited. Check with the national authorities in advance to be on the safe side during import and export.

If you are planning to enter Zimbabwe, there are several options available to you. The easiest way to reach the country, which is almost 12,500 km away, is by plane. There are no direct flights from German-speaking countries. However, you can easily get to the country with a stopover. From South Africa, flights to the capital Harare operate daily, for example from Johannesburg. Entry is also possible via Nairobi Airport. Another important hub is Addis Ababa Airport in Ethiopia. Through this, numerous airlines such as Ethiopian Airlines also offer connecting flights to Zimbabwe. Common search portals provide interesting offers. Generally, it is recommended to book ideally early, as the conditions are often most favorable then.

The airport network in Zimbabwe consists of a total of 10 airports. Overall, it is well developed for the size of the country and meets all the requirements of tourists. By far the most important location is Harare International Airport, which is the hub for most international flights. In addition, Bulawayo Airport in the city of the same name is served by airlines such as Emirates or Airlink. Finally, there is Victoria Falls Airport. From neighboring countries like Kenya or South Africa, regional airlines offer direct flights several times a week. It is only 20 minutes from the airport to the famous attraction. Numerous local providers offer transfers as a service. Alternatively, you can also rent a car and explore the surroundings on your own.

Connecting flights to Mozambique, South Africa, Kenya, Zambia, and other countries are available from Zimbabwean airports. Mainly regional airlines operate these routes. Due to better infrastructure, we advise you to travel by plane rather than by land. There can occasionally be restrictions on land routes. However, the quality of the major airports is satisfactory and provides everything tourists need. You will find a variety of snacks and drinks as well as duty-free shops. Citizens of other nations are allowed to shop tax-free there. Local media will provide you with more information. They often highlight promotions and special offers that may be of interest to you as a tourist.

For German citizens in transit, special rules apply. Normally, an e-visa must be completed for stays in the country. However, the visa requirement may be waived under certain circumstances. To qualify, you must:

- not stay in Zimbabwe for more than 6 hours

- be able to show a continuing flight ticket and travel documents

- not leave the controlled area of the airport during this period

If you stay in Zimbabwe for more than 6 hours, a valid transit visa may be required. In case of unexpected delays or other hindrances to the flight, the authorities may waive this obligation. If you encounter transit problems, you should contact the local authorities early. A transit visa can also be filled out at the airport. Normally, this is not necessary and you may proceed with your onward flight without any trouble.

The German Embassy in Zimbabwe is located in the capital, Harare. You can find the foreign representation at 30 Ceres Road in the Avondale district. Germany has maintained diplomatic relations with the African state for many years. The German representatives assist with any arising problems and facilitate contacts with local administrations. In case of loss, travel documents are authenticated, family matters are clarified, or assistance with visas is organized. If you want to get married in Zimbabwe or have relatives there, this service can be extremely helpful. If you lose your passport while on vacation, the representation is also your first point of contact. They can quickly issue new papers for you.

Regardless of current issues, it is advisable to utilize the services of the embassy. Among other things, you can register for free on the crisis prevention list ELEFAND. Should there be any inconveniences or restrictions during your trip, the foreign representation will contact you. In recent years, this has proven to be very reliable. We therefore encourage you to register on the list. This way, you are on the safe side and can enjoy your trip without worries. Do you have further questions on this topic? Feel free to contact us. As an agency for foreign visas, we are well acquainted with the legal provisions in Zimbabwe and can help you with any problems.