Zimbabwe

When traveling to Zimbabwe, your nationality and the types of activities you will conduct during your trip will determine whether you may travel lawfully as a business visitor or if you must obtain work authorization. Please seek advice from your immigration counsel if you are uncertain about the specific types of activities that constitute business or work.

What types of activities may I engage in as a business visitor?

As a business visitor to Zimbabwe, you may engage in the activities below. While this list is not exhaustive and other activities could qualify as business, you may:

• » Conduct consultancy activities
• » Assess investment opportunities
• » Attend business meetings
• » Attend training

If I qualify as a business visitor, do I need a visa for Zimbabwe?

Foreign nationals who intend to travel to Zimbabwe for business purposes are generally required to obtain a Business Visa. Depending on nationality, Business Visas may be obtained as a consular visa, an e-Visa, or a Visa on Arrival.

Some select nationals may be eligible for a visa waiver and are not required to obtain a Business Visa to perform business activities in Zimbabwe. Please consult with your immigration provider prior to travel to confirm your eligibility for a visa waiver, e-Visa, consular Business Visa, or a Visa on Arrival.

Certain nationalities are considered restricted nationals, and may be subject to additional requirements to obtain a Business Visa. Please contact your immigration counsel before traveling to confirm the list of restricted nationalities.

What types of activities require work authorization?

Business visitors are permitted to perform short-term professional activities, such as systems installation, or repairs and maintenance, without obtaining work authorization. There are no restrictions on the types of professional activities that may be performed by business visitors. Please consult with your immigration counsel before traveling to confirm your eligibility for a short-term work authorization exemption.

If I am traveling to Zimbabwe for work, what type of work authorization do I need?

The requirements for work authorization depend on your qualifications, on the nature and duration of your work, and on whether your employer has an entity in Zimbabwe. The most common type of work authorization for Zimbabwe is:

• » Temporary Employment Permit

Is it possible to be exempted from work authorization requirements?

There are no long-term work authorization exemptions available in Zimbabwe.

Inevitably, the legal and strategic considerations impacting visa selection, as well as visa waiver and work authorization eligibility, entail the careful consideration of many factors. We recommend that you consult with your immigration counsel before taking any course of action.

Copyright © 2023 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. Government immigration agencies often change their policies and practices without notice; please consult an immigration professional for up-to-date information. This document does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. BAL maintains comprehensive immigration information and processing specifics for our clients.