Visa and Entry Requirements for Victoria Falls (2025–2027)

Overview – Entering Victoria Falls from Zimbabwe vs. Zambia

To fully understand the visa and entry requirements for Victoria Falls, it’s important to know that the waterfall straddles the international border between Zimbabwe and Zambia. This makes Victoria Falls one of the rare destinations where travelers can experience the same natural wonder from two different countries — each with its own visa policies, border procedures, and entry requirements.

Both Victoria Falls Town (Zimbabwe) and Livingstone (Zambia) serve as gateways to the falls, each offering distinct views, national parks, accommodation options, and activities. But with two countries involved, the visa and entry requirements for Victoria Falls vary depending on:

Your nationality
Your point of entry (airport, land, or bridge)
Whether you’re visiting one or both sides of the falls
Your length of stay and whether you’ll be doing day trips (e.g. to Botswana)

In this section, we break down the two main entry routes to Victoria Falls and what you need to know about the visa and entry requirements for each.

Visa and Entry Requirements for Victoria Falls – The Complete 2025–2027 Guide

Entering Victoria Falls from Zimbabwe

Most international travelers arriving into Victoria Falls Airport (VFA) or crossing by land from Botswana into Zimbabwe will enter the country via Victoria Falls Town.

Here are the standard visa and entry requirements for Victoria Falls via Zimbabwe:

Visa on Arrival: Available for most Western nationalities including the USA, UK, EU, Australia, Canada, and many others
Visa Fees:
- Single Entry: $30 USD
- Double Entry: $45 USD
- Multiple Entry: Must be applied for in advance at an embassy or consulate
Entry Point: Victoria Falls International Airport (VFA) or Kazungula border if arriving from Botswana
Documents Needed:
- Passport valid for at least 6 months
- Return or onward travel ticket
- Accommodation details
Processing Time: 5–10 minutes at the airport or land border
Health Requirements: Yellow fever vaccination is only required if arriving from a yellow fever zone

Zimbabwe is very welcoming to tourists, and the visa process at the Victoria Falls border or airport is generally efficient. However, it’s essential to carry cash (USD) for the visa fee, as card payment machines may not always be reliable.

Entering Victoria Falls from Zambia

If you fly into Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport (LVI) in Livingstone or arrive by road from Lusaka or Namibia, you’ll enter Victoria Falls from the Zambian side.

Here’s what you need to know about the visa and entry requirements for Victoria Falls via Zambia:

Visa on Arrival or E-Visa: Available for most travelers including those from the EU, UK, USA, Australia, Canada, South Africa, and more
Visa Fees:
- Single Entry: $25 USD
- Double Entry: $40 USD
- Multiple Entry: $75 USD
Entry Point: Livingstone Airport (LVI), Kazungula Road Border, or Victoria Falls Bridge
Documents Needed:
- Valid passport (6 months minimum)
- Return/onward flight
- Hotel/lodge confirmation
Processing Time: Usually 5–15 minutes at the airport or road border
Health Requirements: Yellow fever certificate only needed if arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever

Zambia also offers an e-Visa portal that allows travelers to apply online and receive a visa approval letter within 3 to 5 business days — though many visitors still choose the visa on arrival option for its simplicity.

What If You Want to Visit Both Sides?

This is where the visa and entry requirements for Victoria Falls become more complex — but also more exciting. If you want to walk across the Victoria Falls Bridge and experience both Zimbabwe and Zambia, you’ll either need:

Two separate visas (one for each country)
OR
A KAZA Univisa, which covers both countries and allows multiple entries — we’ll cover this in full detail in Section 2.

The KAZA Univisa – The Easiest Way to Visit Both Sides of Victoria Falls

When it comes to the visa and entry requirements for Victoria Falls, the KAZA Univisa is hands down the most convenient and cost-effective solution for travelers who want to explore both Zimbabwe and Zambia. Whether you’re flying into Victoria Falls Airport, crossing from Zambia to Zimbabwe by foot, or planning a day trip to Chobe in Botswana, the KAZA Univisa simplifies border crossings and removes the hassle of applying for two separate visas.

What is the KAZA Univisa?

The KAZA Univisa is a special joint visa agreement between Zambia and Zimbabwe (and at times Botswana) that allows travelers to:

Enter Zimbabwe and Zambia multiple times on the same visa
Cross the Victoria Falls border crossing as often as needed
Take day trips into Botswana (Chobe) if returning to either country the same day

Originally launched under the Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KAZA TFCA) project, the visa was created to promote seamless regional tourism — and it has become a game-changer for anyone exploring Victoria Falls and the surrounding safari circuit.

Why is the KAZA Univisa Ideal for Victoria Falls Travelers?

If your itinerary includes:

Visiting both sides of Victoria Falls
Walking across the Victoria Falls Bridge
Staying in Zambia but doing tours in Zimbabwe (or vice versa)
Taking a day trip to Chobe National Park in Botswana

… then the KAZA Univisa covers all your visa and entry requirements for Victoria Falls in a single document.

Instead of paying for two separate single-entry visas (e.g. $30 for Zimbabwe and $25 for Zambia), you pay just once for the KAZA Univisa — and you can cross back and forth for up to 30 days.

KAZA Univisa Key Facts

Cost: $50 USD (paid on arrival or via e-visa portal when available)
Validity: 30 days (as long as you stay within Zambia and Zimbabwe)
Entry Type: Multiple entries between Zambia and Zimbabwe
Botswana Access: Valid for day trips into Botswana via Kazungula (must return the same day)
Available At:
- Victoria Falls Airport (Zimbabwe)
- Livingstone Airport (Zambia)
- Kazungula Border Post (Zambia–Botswana)
- Victoria Falls land border

Eligible Countries for KAZA Univisa (As of 2025)

Citizens of over 65 countries are eligible, including:

United States
United Kingdom
Germany
France
Netherlands
Australia
Canada
New Zealand
Italy
South Korea
Japan
China

Note: Always confirm the latest list with official immigration sources or your airline before travel, as eligibility may change year to year.

Documents Required to Obtain the KAZA Univisa

To meet the visa and entry requirements for Victoria Falls using the KAZA Univisa, you’ll need:

A passport valid for at least 6 months
$50 USD in cash or card (cash recommended at land borders)
Proof of accommodation and return/onward travel
Optional: Yellow fever vaccination certificate (only if traveling from a risk country)

Can I Apply for the KAZA Univisa Online?

In some cases, yes — particularly when entering through Zambia. Zambia offers an e-visa platform where you can select the KAZA Univisa option. However, most travelers still receive it on arrival, especially when flying into Victoria Falls or Livingstone.

Entry Requirements for Victoria Falls by Air, Land, and Bridge

Understanding the visa and entry requirements for Victoria Falls also means knowing how your mode of arrival affects the immigration process. Whether you’re flying into one of the region’s airports, entering via road from nearby countries, or walking across the Victoria Falls Bridge, each entry method comes with slightly different procedures, expectations, and timelines.

A. By Air – Arriving at Victoria Falls Airport (Zimbabwe) or Livingstone Airport (Zambia)

Flying into Victoria Falls Airport (VFA) – Zimbabwe Side
Victoria Falls Airport is the most popular international entry point for travelers heading to the Zimbabwean side of Victoria Falls. It serves direct flights from Johannesburg, Cape Town, Nairobi, Addis Ababa, and several European connections via hubs.

Visa on Arrival: Available for most travelers
KAZA Univisa: Issued at the airport immigration desk
Requirements: Valid passport, visa fee (USD), and accommodation/travel details
Processing Time: 5–15 minutes at off-peak times

Flying into Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport (LVI) – Zambia Side
Located in Livingstone, this airport is the Zambian entry point for the Victoria Falls border crossing. It’s smaller but efficient, with good regional flight access from Lusaka, Johannesburg, Nairobi, and other African cities.

Visa on Arrival or E-Visa: Accepted for most nationalities
KAZA Univisa: Available at arrival
Documents Needed: Passport, funds for visa, travel itinerary
Tip: If you’re planning a day trip to Zimbabwe, ask for the KAZA Univisa to avoid paying for two separate visas

Important Note for Air Travelers:
The visa and entry requirements for Victoria Falls by air are generally easier to manage, as both Zimbabwe and Zambia have streamlined airport immigration desks and handle high volumes of tourists daily.

B. By Land – Road Entry from Botswana, Namibia, or Lusaka

Entering Zimbabwe via the Kazungula Border (from Botswana):

This border connects Kasane, Botswana, to the Victoria Falls Town area.
Travelers visiting Chobe National Park often cross here.
Visa on Arrival and KAZA Univisa are available.
Be prepared for longer wait times in peak hours.

Entering Zambia via Kazungula (from Botswana):

Entry into Livingstone via this route is also popular.
Visa and KAZA Univisa available.
A new bridge across the Zambezi has improved access.

Road Entry from Lusaka (Zambia):

Travelers often drive or take a bus from Lusaka to Livingstone.
Border clearance is required at Livingstone Immigration.
Visa and entry requirements for Victoria Falls apply as usual, with KAZA or e-visa options available.

Coming from Namibia:

Travelers driving from the Caprivi Strip can enter via Katima Mulilo (Namibia) to Sesheke (Zambia).
From there, it’s a few hours’ drive to Livingstone.
Visas available at the Sesheke post, though the KAZA Univisa may not always be issued there — plan accordingly.

C. On Foot – Crossing the Victoria Falls Bridge Between Zambia and Zimbabwe

The Victoria Falls Bridge isn’t just a famous viewpoint — it’s also an official land border. Many travelers choose to cross the bridge on foot to experience both sides of the falls. The visa and entry requirements for Victoria Falls still apply, even if you’re walking.

If You’re Walking Across:

Present your passport at the exit immigration post of your current country.
Apply for a bridge pass if just walking to the center and returning (no visa needed for sightseeing).
If crossing fully into the next country, complete entry immigration, pay for the required visa or KAZA Univisa.
You must re-enter through immigration if returning.

Tips:

The border is open from approximately 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Always carry your passport and visa proof.
Even for sightseeing only, immigration officers may stamp your passport.

Visa Categories and Fees for Victoria Falls Travelers by Nationality

Understanding the different visa categories and fees is crucial when planning your trip and fulfilling the visa and entry requirements for Victoria Falls. Depending on your passport, you may qualify for visa-free entry, visa on arrival, or be required to apply for an e-Visa or embassy visa in advance. This section outlines what travelers from top international markets can expect when visiting Victoria Falls through Zimbabwe or Zambia.

Visa Categories Available at Victoria Falls

Visa on Arrival – Available to many Western and SADC countries at airports and border posts.
KAZA Univisa – Best for visitors wanting to explore both Zambia and Zimbabwe.
E-Visa – Online pre-approval available for Zambia; Zimbabwe’s system is less widely used but exists.
Embassy Visa – Required for travelers from countries not eligible for visa on arrival.

All options fall under the umbrella of the visa and entry requirements for Victoria Falls, and which one applies depends entirely on your nationality and travel route.

Visa Fees by Country (2025–2027)

Country	Visa Type	Zimbabwe Fee	Zambia Fee	KAZA Univisa	Eligibility
USA	Visa on Arrival	$30 (Single)	$25 (Single)	$50	Yes, KAZA Eligible
United Kingdom	Visa on Arrival	$55 (Single)	$25 (Single)	$50	Yes, KAZA Eligible
Germany	Visa on Arrival	$30 (Single)	$25 (Single)	$50	Yes, KAZA Eligible
Australia	Visa on Arrival	$30 (Single)	$25 (Single)	$50	Yes, KAZA Eligible
Canada	Visa on Arrival	$75 (Single)	$50 (Single)	$50	Yes, KAZA Eligible
France	Visa on Arrival	$30 (Single)	$25 (Single)	$50	Yes, KAZA Eligible
Netherlands	Visa on Arrival	$30 (Single)	$25 (Single)	$50	Yes, KAZA Eligible
India	E-Visa / Embassy	$30 (Single)	$50 (Single)	Not guaranteed	Sometimes KAZA Eligible
South Africa	Visa-Free	Free	Free	Not Required	Visa Exempt
China	E-Visa / Embassy	$30–60	$50	Sometimes	Check updates annually

Note: Double entry and multiple entry visas have slightly higher fees and may not be available for all nationalities via visa-on-arrival. KAZA is typically cheaper and more flexible for multi-country trips.

Visa Validity Periods

Single Entry Visa: 30 days (valid for one entry into Zimbabwe or Zambia)
Double Entry Visa: 30 days with one re-entry
KAZA Univisa: Valid for 30 days, unlimited entries between Zambia and Zimbabwe
Multiple Entry Visa: Available only via advance application (for long safaris or business)

All visa types must align with the visa and entry requirements for Victoria Falls, especially if you’re entering and exiting both countries multiple times during your stay.

How to Pay Visa Fees

US Dollars (cash) are widely accepted and preferred.
Some ports accept credit or debit cards, but reliability can vary — always carry cash as a backup.
Botswana Pula, Zambian Kwacha, or Zimbabwean Dollars are not accepted for visa payments.

Countries That Require Advance Visa Application for Victoria Falls

While most travelers can get a visa on arrival or use the KAZA Univisa for easy access to Victoria Falls, not all nationalities qualify for these simplified options. Some visitors must meet specific visa and entry requirements for Victoria Falls that involve applying for a visa online or through an embassy before travel.

Failing to secure a visa in advance when required can result in entry denial at the border or airport — so it’s critical to check your eligibility and prepare accordingly.

Who Needs to Apply in Advance?

Travelers from Category C countries, as defined by both Zimbabwe and Zambia, must apply for a visa before arrival. These travelers are not eligible for visa on arrival or the KAZA Univisa at the port of entry.

Examples of Category C nationalities typically include:

Pakistan
Nigeria
Ethiopia
Bangladesh
Afghanistan
Somalia
Iraq
Syria
Iran
North Korea

(Always verify the most current list with official immigration websites as it may change.)

How to Apply for a Zimbabwe Visa in Advance

If your nationality requires advance approval under Zimbabwe’s visa and entry requirements for Victoria Falls, follow this process:

Visit: https://www.evisa.gov.zw
Create an account and select “Holiday Visa”
Fill out the application form
Upload passport copy, travel itinerary, and hotel booking
Pay the visa fee online
Receive a visa approval letter via email (typically within 3–5 days)
Present the letter upon arrival to receive your official visa

Note: Processing can take longer during high travel seasons, so apply at least 2 weeks before your trip.

How to Apply for a Zambia Visa in Advance

Zambia has one of the most efficient e-visa systems in Africa. It supports both standard visas and the KAZA Univisa (when available).

Steps to apply:

Visit: https://evisa.zambiaimmigration.gov.zm
Register and choose visa type (e.g., KAZA Univisa, single or double entry)
Upload passport copy, photo, itinerary, proof of funds
Pay fees online (Visa, Mastercard accepted)
Receive approval letter in 3–5 business days
Present it at the border or airport for stamping

Zambia’s e-visa platform is user-friendly and often allows KAZA Univisa selection even for nationalities who can’t get it on arrival.

Important Reminders for Advance Visa Applicants

Print your visa approval letter and carry multiple copies
Do not rely on phone screenshots at the border
If you’re flying, keep the printed visa in your carry-on
Do not book non-refundable flights until your visa is approved
Your visa must match your port of entry (e.g. you can’t use a Lusaka visa to enter via Victoria Falls if it wasn’t specified)

Transit Rules and Re-Entry at the Victoria Falls Border

Travelers visiting Victoria Falls often combine it with safaris in Chobe (Botswana), overland trips into Namibia, or even gorilla trekking in Uganda or Rwanda. That means you might exit Zimbabwe or Zambia — and later return. Understanding the visa and entry requirements for Victoria Falls in this context is key to avoiding unexpected fees, entry denials, or overstays.

This section addresses what happens if you leave the country and come back — whether on the same visa, a different one, or as part of a multi-country tour.

1. Can I Leave and Re-Enter Victoria Falls Using the Same Visa?

That depends on the type of visa you hold:

KAZA Univisa

✅ Yes — this visa allows multiple entries between Zimbabwe and Zambia for 30 days.
You can cross the Victoria Falls Bridge as many times as you like.
Also valid for day trips to Botswana, as long as you return the same day to either Zambia or Zimbabwe.

Single Entry Visa

❌ No — once you leave the country, the visa is void.
You’ll need to purchase a new visa upon re-entry.
For example, if you have a Zimbabwe single-entry visa and take a day trip to Chobe (Botswana), you’ll need to pay again to return to Zimbabwe.

Double Entry Visa

✅ Yes — you’re allowed to leave and come back once.
Great for visiting Chobe or Zambia for a day, then returning to Zimbabwe.

Multiple Entry Visa

✅ Valid for more than two entries, but only available via embassy or advance application.

2. Transit at Victoria Falls Without Staying Overnight

Many travelers pass through Victoria Falls en route to other destinations, especially when driving or flying between countries.

If You’re in Transit Through Zimbabwe or Zambia:

You may still need a transit visa, even if not spending the night.
Zambia Transit Visa: Often costs $20–25 USD and valid for 7 days.
Zimbabwe Transit Visa: Also available for short stays under 48 hours.

Even if you’re “just passing through,” the visa and entry requirements for Victoria Falls still apply, and immigration will stamp your passport accordingly.

3. Crossing into Botswana from Victoria Falls

Many Victoria Falls travelers take a day trip to Chobe National Park via Kazungula border. Here’s how that affects your visa status:

With a KAZA Univisa, you can leave Zimbabwe or Zambia in the morning, do your Chobe safari, and return without paying another fee.
With a single entry visa, you’ll pay twice: once to exit, once to re-enter.
Tip: Ask your tour operator to organize KAZA or arrange for visas if you’ll re-enter.

4. Flying Out from a Different Country After Visiting Victoria Falls

If you enter Zimbabwe, cross the Victoria Falls Bridge into Zambia, and then fly out of Livingstone or Lusaka, your visa must match your country of departure. Immigration will check this.

Options:

KAZA Univisa: Valid for both countries, so you can arrive in Zimbabwe and fly out of Zambia (or vice versa).
Separate Single Visas: You must purchase two — one for entry, one for departure.

5. Overstaying Your Visa

If you exceed the number of days permitted by your visa, you may face:

Fines at the border (usually $50–$100 USD)
Delays in immigration processing
Possible denial of re-entry in the future

To avoid violating the visa and entry requirements for Victoria Falls, always:

Keep track of your visa’s validity
Count every day including entry and exit dates
Contact immigration early if an extension is needed

Entry Requirements for Families, Children, and Groups Visiting Victoria Falls

Family vacations, school trips, and guided group tours are increasingly popular around

, thanks to the destination’s natural appeal, wildlife experiences, and cross-border cultural opportunities. However, families and groups must be aware that the visa and entry requirements for Victoria Falls involve a few additional rules and documents — especially when minors or large groups are involved.

This section breaks down what you need to know if you’re entering Victoria Falls with children or as part of an organized group.

1. Visa and Entry Requirements for Children (Minors Under 18)

Whether arriving in Zimbabwe or Zambia, children are subject to the same visa and entry requirements for Victoria Falls as adults — but with extra documentation for safety and legal reasons.

Passport Requirement:

All children, regardless of age, must have their own passport to enter Zambia or Zimbabwe.
No child may travel on a parent’s passport.

Visa Requirement:

Children from eligible countries may receive a visa on arrival just like adults.
In many cases, visa fees for children under 12 are waived or discounted — but this varies by entry point.
The KAZA Univisa can also be issued to minors traveling with their parents or guardians.

Additional Documents for Children Traveling with One Parent or Guardian:

If a child is traveling with only one parent, or with a non-parental guardian (teacher, aunt, etc.), most immigration officials at the Victoria Falls border crossing will request:

A notarized letter of consent from the absent parent(s) or legal guardian(s)
A certified copy of the child’s birth certificate
A copy of the absent parent’s passport or ID

Example: If a mother is crossing the Victoria Falls Bridge with her son, immigration officers may ask for written permission from the father if they are still legally connected.

These requirements are strictly enforced to prevent child trafficking and comply with international travel standards.

2. Group Entry Requirements (School Trips, Safari Tours, Church Groups, etc.)

The visa and entry requirements for Victoria Falls differ slightly for larger, organized groups — especially those entering as part of a school field trip, church mission, or group safari.

Group Visa Handling:

Tour operators can often pre-arrange group visas in advance to avoid delays at the airport or land border.
Some immigration offices at Victoria Falls Airport (Zimbabwe) or Livingstone Airport (Zambia) have special processing for large groups.

Documents Recommended for All Group Members:

Valid passports (with at least 6 months validity)
Group travel letter or trip confirmation from the organizing institution (school, organization, etc.)
Detailed list of all group members, including passport numbers and dates of birth
Copies of accommodation bookings and return flight info

KAZA Univisa for Groups:

Available for eligible nationalities and can be issued to entire groups, especially if coordinated in advance
Best suited for school groups doing multi-country programs (e.g. Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana day trip)

Pro Tip: Tour leaders should carry physical and digital copies of all group documentation to ensure smooth processing at the Victoria Falls border crossing.

3. Vaccination Requirements for Families and Groups

For families and groups traveling from or transiting through countries classified as yellow fever risk zones, proof of vaccination may be required when entering Zambia or Zimbabwe.

Not required for travelers coming directly from Europe, the USA, or most of Asia
Required if transiting through affected countries (e.g. Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda, etc.)

Children over 1 year old should also carry a yellow fever certificate if arriving from or passing through a risk country.

4. Family Travel Tips at the Victoria Falls Border

Use the KAZA Univisa for stress-free multi-country travel
Avoid arriving late in the afternoon to avoid queues and fatigue with young kids
Ask for priority processing if traveling with infants
Have all documents easily accessible when reaching the immigration desk

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Entering Victoria Falls

No matter how prepared you feel, the visa and entry requirements for Victoria Falls can still trip up travelers if key details are overlooked. From missing documents to visa misunderstandings at the Victoria Falls border crossing, here’s what you absolutely must avoid to ensure your trip goes smoothly.

1. Forgetting to Request the KAZA Univisa (Even When Eligible)

One of the most common mistakes is failing to ask for the KAZA Univisa at the immigration desk — even when you’re eligible. Many travelers end up paying twice for visas (once for Zimbabwe, once for Zambia) when a $50 KAZA Univisa would have covered both countries and even allowed a Chobe day trip to Botswana.

Fix:
Always ask clearly for the KAZA Univisa when you arrive at Victoria Falls Airport or Livingstone Airport. Immigration officers don’t always offer it automatically.

2. Assuming Visa Exemptions Apply Without Checking

Just because a friend from your country entered visa-free doesn’t mean the rules haven’t changed. Visa exemption policies vary by passport, route, and even recent political updates.

Fix:
Always double-check the latest visa and entry requirements for Victoria Falls on official Zimbabwe or Zambia immigration websites before traveling — especially if your passport is from a Category C country.

3. Not Carrying Cash for Visa Fees

Card machines at border posts and airports in the region are known to be unreliable. Many travelers arrive with credit cards only, then get stuck at immigration due to non-functional terminals or network issues.

Fix:
Bring $50–$100 USD in cash per traveler, in small denominations. This covers visa fees, entry taxes, and emergency expenses near the Victoria Falls border crossing.

4. Overstaying Your Visa

Overstays are taken seriously in both Zambia and Zimbabwe, and can lead to fines, entry bans, or detention.

Fix:
Know how many days your visa allows. If using a KAZA Univisa, you must still leave within 30 days, even if crossing multiple times. Don’t assume that re-entry resets the clock.

5. Not Printing Your E-Visa or Approval Letter

If you applied online for a Zimbabwe or Zambia e-visa, digital copies aren’t enough. Immigration will usually ask for a printed version of your approval letter.

Fix:
Print at least two copies of your e-visa approval and carry them in your hand luggage. Save a digital backup to your phone, but don’t rely on it alone.

6. Using an Ineligible Entry Point for a Special Visa

Some travelers apply for the KAZA Univisa or e-visa but try to enter through land borders that don’t support these visas — such as smaller crossings in rural Zambia or Zimbabwe.

Fix:
Make sure your visa type matches your point of entry. KAZA Univisa is only available at major ports like:

Victoria Falls Airport (Zimbabwe)
Livingstone Airport (Zambia)
Kazungula border (Zambia–Botswana)

7. Missing Child Travel Consent Requirements

Families often forget that children traveling with one parent or a guardian need written consent letters, or risk being denied entry.

Fix:
Carry certified documents proving parental or guardian authority — this is a legal requirement under the visa and entry requirements for Victoria Falls, especially when crossing the border with minors.

8. Skipping Passport Validity Check

Travelers have been turned away for arriving with passports that expire within six months, even if they’re still technically valid.

Fix:
Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your entry date. Also, leave at least two blank pages for visa stamps.

Latest Updates and COVID-19 Related Entry Changes for Victoria Falls

Even as international travel stabilizes post-pandemic, travelers to Victoria Falls must still be aware of temporary or evolving entry regulations, especially involving health protocols, vaccination proof, and emergency response policies. These factors often overlap with the visa and entry requirements for Victoria Falls, and ignoring them could lead to delays or denied entry.

Here’s everything you need to know as of 2025–2026.

1. COVID-19 Testing and Entry Rules (2025 Status)

As of now, both Zimbabwe and Zambia have lifted mandatory PCR testing and quarantine rules for most travelers — but entry requirements may still differ based on nationality, flight route, or recent travel history.

Current Entry Summary:

No PCR test required for fully vaccinated travelers
Proof of full COVID-19 vaccination may be requested at immigration
Unvaccinated travelers may need a negative PCR test (within 48 hours) — this is at the discretion of border authorities
Random temperature checks and health screening remain in place at major ports like Victoria Falls Airport and Livingstone Airport

These rules are not strictly visa-related but are enforced alongside the standard visa and entry requirements for Victoria Falls. Always carry printed copies of your vaccination certificate or negative test, especially if transiting through regional hubs like Nairobi, Addis Ababa, or Johannesburg.

2. Yellow Fever Certificate Requirements

One of the most overlooked health-related entry requirements for Victoria Falls is the yellow fever vaccination card. This has nothing to do with COVID-19 but is still mandatory if you’ve transited through or come from a yellow fever risk country.

You Need a Yellow Fever Certificate If:

You’re arriving from or have transited through countries like:
- Ethiopia
- Kenya
- Uganda
- Angola
- DR Congo
- Brazil
- Parts of West Africa or Central America
You’re entering Zambia or Zimbabwe directly after visiting any high-risk destination

You Do Not Need It If:

You’re flying in from Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia, or South Africa without transits in yellow fever zones

Children over 1 year old must also carry their own yellow fever certificate if required. This applies regardless of visa type — it’s a core part of the entry requirements for Victoria Falls enforced by both countries.

3. Travel Insurance Still Recommended (Even if Not Mandatory)

While not a strict legal requirement, both Zambian and Zimbabwean authorities — as well as most tour operators — strongly encourage travelers to show proof of comprehensive travel insurance, especially if applying for a KAZA Univisa or planning multiple entries.

Your insurance should:

Cover COVID-related cancellations
Include evacuation services (especially if doing safaris or adventure activities)
Be valid for Southern Africa

4. E-Visa Processing Delays or Interruptions

Since 2022, Zimbabwe’s e-visa portal has had periods of downtime. While it works in most cases, the safest approach for 2025 remains:

Apply early (minimum 2–3 weeks before travel)
If possible, opt for visa on arrival or the KAZA Univisa, which are typically more stable
Save both printed and digital copies of your e-visa approvals

5. Border Crossing Hours Post-COVID

Operating hours at the Victoria Falls border crossing are back to normal (6:00 AM – 6:00 PM) as of 2025, but:

Some land border officials may close processing early (around 5:00 PM)
Be cautious about crossing the bridge late in the afternoon, especially if your visa expires that day

Final Tips and Summary of Visa and Entry Requirements for Victoria Falls

Whether you’re visiting Victoria Falls for a day trip, a week-long cross-border adventure, or combining your safari with gorilla trekking in East Africa, understanding the Visa and Entry Requirements for Victoria Falls is essential to planning a seamless and stress-free experience.

This iconic natural wonder sits at the crossroads of Zimbabwe and Zambia, making it one of Africa’s most unique destinations — and one of the few places in the world where travelers routinely cross an international border on foot, right at the edge of a roaring waterfall.

Here are the most important things to remember:

Top 10 Final Tips for Visa and Entry Requirements for Victoria Falls

Visa on Arrival is available for most nationalities at both Victoria Falls Airport (Zimbabwe) and Livingstone Airport (Zambia).
The KAZA Univisa is the best option if you’re planning to visit both countries, cross the Victoria Falls Bridge, or take a Chobe day trip to Botswana.
Always bring cash (USD) for visa payments — card machines at border posts are not always reliable.
Double-check your passport validity (6+ months) and have at least two blank pages available.
Print your e-visa or KAZA approval letter and carry physical copies.
Children traveling with one parent or guardian require certified letters of consent and birth certificates.
Don’t overstay — recheck the number of days granted by your visa, even with a KAZA Univisa.
Ask for the correct visa type upon arrival — immigration won’t always offer KAZA unless you request it.
Yellow fever vaccination proof is required if traveling from or transiting through high-risk countries.
Always check the latest updates on entry rules — especially if traveling from Asia, the Middle East, or non-visa-exempt regions.

Bonus Tip:

If in doubt, always contact your tour operator, airline, or local immigration office before travel. Many travelers arrive with assumptions — and delays at the Victoria Falls border crossing can cost you time, money, and even missed tours.

This guide on the Visa and Entry Requirements for Victoria Falls has been created to help you avoid surprises, plan confidently, and fully enjoy every step of your journey across this natural world wonder.

Ready to plan your Victoria Falls trip? Explore our updated blogs on: