1. OBTAINING A VISA

Visas can either be obtained before travelling or at the port of entry. This depends on the category into which the visitor’s citizenship falls.

Category A: Visa not required
Category B: Visa issued on payment at Port of entry
Category C: Prior application to entry

Where to obtain a Visa

Visas can be obtained from the nearest Immigration Office, Zimbabwe Foreign Missions throughout the world, British Representative Missions in their country of origin, Local Foreign Affairs Ministry and at port of entry for certain nationals.


2. BUSINESS VISITORS

Business visitors are restricted to a period of stay not exceeding 6 weeks. Where there is need to continue as a business visitor after expiry of the 6 weeks, a Temporary Employment Permit covering the desired period is applied for.

Qualifying candidates for Business visitor include those coming on business for:

• Consultancy work

• Installation and backup service for machinery purchased outside Zimbabwe by local companies

• Attend Bard meetings

• Assessing investment opportunities

3. INVESTOR

Residence permits

An investor who acquires Zimbabwe Investment Authority approval qualifies for a residence permit in Zimbabwe.Investors who:

• Invest not less than US$1 million in a project approved by the ZIA will qualify for permanent residence on application.

• Invest at least US$300 000 in a sole business venture in a project approved by ZIA will qualify for a residence permit for 3 years at the end of which permanent residence may be granted.

• Invest US$100 000 in a joint venture, approved by the ZIA, with a bonafide Zimbabwean will qualify for a 3 year residence permit at the end of which permanent residence may be granted.

Applying for permanent residence

Who qualifies?

A person who has resided in Zimbabwe for a continuous period of 5 years on work permit or a dependant



4. EMPLOYMENT PERMITS

Temporary Employment Permit

A foreign employee coming to work for a local company requires a Temporary Employment Permit. The employer completes TEP application forms and residence permit application forms for consideration by the Department of Immigration Control.


5. DEPENDANT PERMITS

Residence Permit for a dependant

A person below the age of 18 or retired person not seeking employment but coming to live with close relatives permanently resident in Zimbabwe can qualify.