Zimbabwe, a landlocked country in Southern Africa, is celebrated for its rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and abundant wildlife. Its cultural tapestry is woven from the traditions of various ethnic groups, including the Shona and Ndebele people, each contributing unique customs, languages, and artistic expressions. From the mesmerizing rhythms of Mbira music to the intricate stone carvings of the Great Zimbabwe ruins, the nation’s cultural scene reflects its vibrant history and identity.
The country’s political system is a multi-party republic, with a President as the head of state and a Prime Minister as the head of government. While Zimbabwe has made significant strides in its democratic journey, challenges remain in areas such as political stability and economic development.
Zimbabwe’s geography is characterized by diverse landscapes, ranging from the majestic Victoria Falls to the rolling hills and granite outcrops of the Great Dyke. The climate is tropical, with distinct wet and dry seasons. The population is predominantly African, with diverse ethnic groups and languages. English is the official language, while Shona and Ndebele are widely spoken.
Zimbabwe’s economy is largely based on agriculture and mining, with growing sectors in tourism and manufacturing. The country faces challenges such as poverty, unemployment, and economic instability. The largest cities include Harare (the capital), Bulawayo, and Chitungwiza, each offering a unique glimpse into Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage and natural beauty.
| Requirement | Tourist | Long-Term Immigrant (Non-African) | Long-Term Immigrant (African) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visa | Visa on arrival for most nationalities (30 days, extendable) | Temporary Employment Permit (TEP) or Residence Permit | Residence Permit (different categories exist) |
| Passport | Valid passport with at least 6 months validity remaining and at least 4 blank pages | Same as above | Same as above |
| Proof of Sufficient Funds | Evidence of enough money to cover your stay | Proof of financial means to support yourself | Proof of financial means to support yourself |
| Onward/Return Ticket | Usually required for tourists | Not typically required | Not typically required |
| Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate | Required if arriving from a yellow fever risk country | Same as above | Same as above |
| Other | May need to provide proof of accommodation, travel itinerary, etc. | May need additional documents depending on the type of permit (e.g., job offer letter, police clearance certificate) | May need additional documents depending on the type of permit |
| Requirement | Process | Responsible Authority |
|---|---|---|
| Registration with Immigration | All foreigners staying in Zimbabwe for more than 6 months must register with the immigration authorities within 7 days of arrival. | Department of Immigration |
| Residential Address Registration | You need to register your residential address with the local council or municipality. | Local Council or Municipality |
| Category | General Requirement for Foreign Nationals | Key Steps & Considerations for Foreign Nationals |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Work Permit | Required (e.g., Temporary Employment Permit – TEP). | 1. Job Offer Needed: You typically need a confirmed job offer from a Zimbabwean employer. 2. Employer Role: The prospective employer often initiates or heavily supports the application process. 3. Labour Market Test: Authorities may require the employer to prove that no qualified Zimbabwean is available for the position. 4. Application: Submitted to the Department of Immigration Control. Requirements usually include: Application form, job offer/contract, employer’s supporting documents, your qualifications, police clearance certificates (from country of residence), medical examination report, passport photos, applicable fees. 5. Timing: This process should generally be completed *before* travelling to Zimbabwe to take up employment. Note: Specific requirements exist for investors, volunteers, or other categories. |
| 2. Entry Visa (Initial Entry) | Depends on Nationality & Purpose. | 1. Visa Categories: Zimbabwe classifies countries into categories (A: Visa Exempt; B: Visa on Arrival; C: Visa Required Before Travel). Check your nationality’s category on official sources. 2. Purpose Matters: Standard tourist visas (or visa-exempt entry) do *not* permit employment or long-term residence setup. You might need a specific type of visa applied for in advance if coming to finalize permit processes, or entry must align with permit application rules. 3. SADC/COMESA Nationals: Citizens of Southern African Development Community (SADC) or Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) member states often benefit from easier entry (e.g., Category A or B for short visits/tourism) BUT **still require specific work and residence permits** for employment and long-term stays. 4. Application (if needed): Category C nationals must apply via the Zimbabwean Embassy/Consulate in their country or via the official e-visa portal ([https://www.evisa.gov.zw/](https://www.evisa.gov.zw/)) *before* travelling. Important: Ensure your entry method aligns with your intention to apply for work/residence permits. Entering as a tourist with the intent to work illegally can lead to serious consequences. |
| 3. Residence Permit (Long-Term Stay > 90 days) | Required. | 1. Link to Purpose: Residence permits are usually tied to the reason for your stay (e.g., linked to a Temporary Employment Permit (TEP), Investor’s Permit, Spouse’s Permit, Student’s Permit). 2. Application Timing: Often applied for in conjunction with, or after obtaining the principal permit (like the TEP). Sometimes initiated from abroad, or occasionally conversion from a specific *non-tourist* entry visa might be possible within Zimbabwe (verify rules for your specific case). 3. Types: Initially, Temporary Residence Permits (TRP) are issued, typically valid for 1-3 years and renewable. 4. Required Documents (Examples): Application form, passport, photos, proof of the basis for stay (e.g., TEP approval), medical report, police clearance, proof of accommodation, proof of financial means (if applicable), birth/marriage certificates (if applicable), applicable fees. 5. Permanent Residence: May be applied for after a significant period (e.g., 5-10 years) of continuous legal temporary residence, subject to meeting specific requirements and conditions. |
| 4. Key Authorities/Links | N/A | – Department of Immigration Control (Zimbabwe): The main authority for visas and permits. Website: [https://www.zimimmigration.gov.zw/](https://www.zimimmigration.gov.zw/) (Check for current validity/use) – Zimbabwean Embassies/Consulates: For visa applications abroad. – e-Visa Portal: [https://www.evisa.gov.zw/](https://www.evisa.gov.zw/) (For online visa applications where applicable). – Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage: Oversees the Department of Immigration.Disclaimer: Immigration laws and procedures can change. Always consult the official websites of the Zimbabwean Department of Immigration Control and the relevant Zimbabwean Embassy/Consulate for the most current and accurate information specific to your nationality and situation. |
| Requirement | Options | Example Providers | Costs (Estimates) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health Insurance | Mandatory for all immigrants. Tourists are strongly advised to have travel insurance that includes medical coverage. | Local: CIMAS, First Mutual Health, PSMAS, International: Allianz Care, BUPA Global | Single: USD 50-200 per month Couple: USD 100-400 per month Family: USD 150-600+ per month |
| Immigration Category | Requirements | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist |
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| Long-term Immigrant |
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| Purpose | Amount (USD) | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Entry | – No specific minimum amount required, – Sufficient funds to cover accommodation, living expenses, and onward/return travel. | – Immigration officials may request proof of funds. |
| Initial Stay (First few months) | – Estimated monthly expenses: $500 – $1000 (depending on lifestyle and location), – Additional costs for accommodation, transportation, and other necessities. | – Costs can vary significantly depending on individual needs and choices. |
| City | Average Monthly Rent (USD) | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Harare | 1-bedroom apartment: 300-600 $ 3-bedroom house: 800-1500$ |
|
| Bulawayo | 1-bedroom apartment: 200-400 $ 3-bedroom house: 500-1000$ |
– Bulawayo is the second-largest city and generally offers more affordable rental options. |
| Mutare | 1-bedroom apartment: 150-300 $ 3-bedroom house: 400-800$ |
– Mutare is a smaller city with relatively lower rental costs. |
| Gweru | 1-bedroom apartment: 100-250 $ 3-bedroom house: 300-600$ |
– Gweru is another mid-sized city with affordable rental options. |
| Masvingo | 1-bedroom apartment: 80-200 $ 3-bedroom house: 250-500$ |
– Masvingo is a smaller city with generally lower rental costs. |
| Item | Zimbabwe (USD) | Germany (€) | France (€) | UK (£) | Italy (€) | Spain (€) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant | 5$ | 12€ | 15€ | 10£ | 13€ | 11€ |
| Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant | 30$ | 50€ | 60€ | 40£ | 55€ | 45€ |
| Domestic Beer (0.5 liter) | 1.5$ | 3€ | 4€ | 3.5£ | 3€ | 2.5€ |
| Imported Beer (0.33 liter) | 3$ | 4€ | 5€ | 4£ | 4.5€ | 3.5€ |
| Cappuccino | 2$ | 3.5€ | 4€ | 3£ | 3.5€ | 2.5€ |
| Coke/Pepsi (0.33 liter) | 0.8$ | 1.5€ | 2€ | 1.2£ | 1.8€ | 1.3€ |
| Water (0.33 liter) | 0.5$ | 1€ | 1.2€ | 0.8£ | 1.2€ | 0.7€ |
| One-way Ticket (Local Transport) | 0.3$ | 2.5€ | 1.9€ | 2£ | 1.5€ | 1.1€ |
| Monthly Pass (Regular Price) | 15$ | 80€ | 75€ | 60£ | 35€ | 55€ |
| Gasoline (1 liter) | 1.6$ | 1.8€ | 1.9€ | 1.6£ | 1.9€ | 1.7€ |
| Level | Cost (USD per year) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Primary School (Grades 1-7) | 100$-500$ | Public schools are cheaper, private schools can be costly |
| Secondary School (Grades 8-13) | 200$-1000$ | Similar to primary school, private schools are more expensive |
| University (per semester) | 500$-2000$ | Varies depending on the program and university |
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Availability | No national unemployment benefit system exists |
| Eligibility | N/A |
| Duration | N/A |
| Amount | N/A |
| Cost Category | Description | Example Costs |
|---|---|---|
| Visa and Residence Permits | Fees associated with applying for and obtaining the necessary visas and permits to live and work in Zimbabwe. | Temporary Employment Permit (TEP) application fee: USD 500 |
| Relocation Costs | Expenses related to moving your belongings and yourself to Zimbabwe. | Airfare for a one-way ticket from Frankfurt to Harare: USD 800-1200, Shipping a 20-foot container from Germany to Zimbabwe: USD 3,000-5,000 |
| Accommodation | Costs for securing a place to live in Zimbabwe, which can vary significantly depending on location and type of housing. | Monthly rent for a 2-bedroom apartment in Harare: USD 500-1000, Security deposit: typically equivalent to 1-2 months‘ rent |
| Cost of Living | Ongoing expenses for daily life in Zimbabwe, including food, transportation, utilities, and entertainment. | Monthly groceries for a single person: USD 200-300, Monthly public transportation pass: USD 30-50 |
| Insurance | Costs for obtaining necessary health, liability, or other insurance coverage in Zimbabwe. | Monthly premium for private health insurance: USD 100-200 |
| Language Courses | Expenses for learning English, Shona, or Ndebele if you are not proficient in these languages. | Intensive language course: USD 500-1000 per month |
| Professional Recognition | Costs associated with getting your professional qualifications recognized in Zimbabwe, if applicable. | Varies depending on profession and qualifications |
| Government Body | Website |
|---|---|
| Department of Immigration, Zimbabwe | https://www.zimimmigration.gov.zw/ |
| Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) | https://www.zimra.co.zw/ |
| Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade | https://www.zim.gov.zw/ |
| Embassy of Zimbabwe in your country | (Search online for the specific embassy) |
| Type of Visa / Permit | Brief Description | Link to Further Information (Official Source) |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa (E-visa / Visa on Arrival) | For tourism purposes. Category B nationals (incl. Germany, USA) can obtain via e-visa portal or on arrival. Category C must apply in advance. | Official E-Visa Portal |
| Business Visa (E-visa / Visa on Arrival) | For business meetings, consultations, conferences, etc. (not employment). Category B nationals via e-visa/on arrival, Category C must apply in advance. | Official E-Visa Portal |
| Transit Visa | For passing through Zimbabwe to another destination (usually valid for a short period, e.g., up to 7 days). | Official E-Visa Portal |
| KAZA UniVisa | A common tourist visa valid for both Zimbabwe and Zambia, allowing easier travel between the two countries within its validity (typically 30 days). | Official E-Visa Portal |
| Employment Permit | For individuals taking up paid employment in Zimbabwe. Application typically initiated by the employer before travel is undertaken. | Embassy of Zimbabwe (USA) – Visas/Permits Info |
| Student Permit | For individuals admitted to study at a registered educational institution in Zimbabwe. Requires application and approval before travel. | Embassy of Zimbabwe (USA) – Visas/Permits Info |
| Residence Permit | For longer-term stays, often applicable to dependents of residents/permit holders, retirees, or individuals with substantial ties/reasons for residing. Requires application before travel. | Embassy of Zimbabwe (USA) – Visas/Permits Info |
| Investor Permit | For foreign nationals intending to make significant investments in Zimbabwe. Involves specific requirements and application processes, usually initiated before travel. | Embassy of Zimbabwe (USA) – Visas/Permits Info |
| Area / Process | Description | Responsible Authority / Link |
|---|---|---|
| Registration / Residence | Application for various Permits: Depending on the purpose of stay (work, study, investment, retirement, family), different permits are required (e.g., Residence Permit, Temporary Employment Permit, Student Permit). These are necessary for legal long-term residence and registration. | Department of Immigration Control (under the Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage) Dept. of Immigration Website |
| Health Insurance | Proof of adequate health insurance: Similar to other countries, providing proof of valid health insurance coverage (often private international or local) is frequently a prerequisite for obtaining residence or work permits. | Typically checked by the Department of Immigration Control during the permit application process. Information on the health system: Ministry of Health and Child Care. Ministry of Health Website |
| Work Permit | Application for a Work Permit (e.g., Temporary Employment Permit – TEP): Required to legally work in Zimbabwe. The application is often made in conjunction with the employer, who may need to demonstrate that the position cannot be filled by a citizen and that the applicant’s skills are needed. | Department of Immigration Control (issues the permit). The process may involve coordination with the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare regarding the labour market. Immigration: Dept. of Immigration Website Labour: Ministry of Labour Website |
| Recognition of Qualifications | Application for Evaluation/Recognition of Foreign Qualifications: Process for assessing and recognizing qualifications obtained abroad (higher education, school, vocational) to determine their equivalence to Zimbabwean standards. Important for employment or further education. | For higher education qualifications: Zimbabwe Council for Higher Education (ZIMCHE). For other qualifications, potentially the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development or Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education. ZIMCHE: ZIMCHE Website Higher Ed: Ministry of Higher Ed Website |
| Industry Sector | Qualification | Typical Monthly Hours | Usual Annual Leave (Working Days) | Typical Gross Annual Salary (USD) | Approx. Gross Annual Salary (ZiG) | Estimated Net Annual Salary (USD, approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Agriculture | Farm Worker (Basic) | ca. 195 | 15 – 22 | 1,200 – 2,400 | 16,200 – 32,400 | 1,000 – 2,100 |
| Mining | General Hand / Mine Labourer | ca. 195 | 15 – 22 | 2,400 – 4,800 | 32,400 – 64,800 | 2,000 – 4,200 |
| Mining | Skilled Artisan / Technician | ca. 195 | 15 – 22 | 6,000 – 18,000+ | 81,000 – 243,000+ | 5,000 – 15,000+ |
| Education (Public/Private Mix) | Teacher (Qualified) | ca. 180 | 20+ (school holidays) | 4,000 – 8,000 | 54,000 – 108,000 | 3,400 – 6,800 |
| Healthcare (Public/Private Mix) | Registered Nurse | ca. 195 | 15 – 22 | 4,500 – 9,000 | 60,750 – 121,500 | 3,800 – 7,500 |
| Tourism & Hospitality | Hotel Staff (Basic/Vocational) | ca. 195 (seasonal) | 15 – 22 | 2,500 – 5,000 | 33,750 – 67,500 | 2,100 – 4,300 |
| Business / Administration | Admin Assistant / Clerk | ca. 180 | 15 – 22 | 3,600 – 7,200 | 48,600 – 97,200 | 3,000 – 6,100 |
| Business / Finance | Accountant (Qualified Degree/Chartered) | ca. 180 | 15 – 22 | 9,600 – 24,000+ | 129,600 – 324,000+ | 7,700 – 19,000+ |
| IT | IT Support / Technician | ca. 180 | 15 – 22 | 6,000 – 14,400 | 81,000 – 194,400 | 5,000 – 11,800 |
| IT | Software Developer (Degree/Experience) | ca. 180 | 15 – 22 | 9,600 – 30,000+ | 129,600 – 405,000+ | 7,700 – 23,000+ |