Do Zimbabwean citizens need a visa to visit South Africa, Botswana, or Zambia?

No, Zimbabwean passport holders do not need a visa for South Africa (up to 90 days), Botswana (up to 90 days), or Zambia (visa-free access as SADC member states). These are among the most frequently visited destinations by Zimbabweans for business, tourism, and family visits. Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay.

Can Zimbabweans travel to the UK, USA, or Canada without a visa?

No, Zimbabwean passport holders require visas for the United Kingdom, United States, and Canada. All three countries are classified as visa-required destinations. You must apply in advance through the respective embassy or consulate. Processing times vary: UK visitor visas typically take 3 weeks, US B1/B2 visas can take several months including interview scheduling, and Canadian visitor visas take approximately 4-6 weeks.

Which popular tourist destinations offer visa-on-arrival for Zimbabwe passport holders?

Zimbabwe passport holders can obtain visa-on-arrival in 21 countries including: Maldives (30 days), Cambodia (30 days), Madagascar (90 days), Jordan (visa-on-arrival available), Ethiopia, Cape Verde Islands, Comoro Islands, and Samoa. Requirements typically include a valid passport (6+ months validity), return ticket, proof of accommodation, and sufficient funds. Fees vary by country and are payable in USD or local currency.

How do I apply for a Zimbabwean passport and what documents are required?

To apply for a Zimbabwean passport, visit the Civil Registry Department or Registrar General's Office. Required documents include: completed application form (Form RG3), birth certificate, national ID, two passport photos, and application fee (varies for ordinary, emergency, or e-passport). Processing time is typically 6-8 weeks for standard applications. Emergency passports can be issued within 48-72 hours with additional fees. Diaspora Zimbabweans can apply through embassies abroad.

Can Zimbabwean passport holders get e-visas for popular destinations like Turkey, UAE, and India?

Yes, Zimbabwe passport holders can apply for e-visas to 37 countries including Turkey (e-visa available online, typically approved within 24-48 hours), UAE (online visa through sponsors or airlines), India (e-Tourist Visa for up to 60 days), Qatar, Bahrain, Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand, Russia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia. E-visa applications are processed online, eliminating the need for embassy visits. Approval times range from 24 hours to 7 days depending on the destination.

Is military service mandatory for Zimbabwean citizens, and does it affect passport issuance?

Zimbabwe does not have mandatory military service for civilians. The Zimbabwe Defence Forces operate on a voluntary recruitment basis. There are no military service requirements that affect passport issuance or international travel for ordinary citizens. Young Zimbabweans can apply for and receive passports without military clearance certificates. However, active military personnel require authorization from their commanding officers for international travel.

What is the passport validity requirement for international travel with a Zimbabwean passport?

Most countries require Zimbabwean passports to be valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended date of departure. Some destinations like Schengen countries, USA, UK, and Australia strictly enforce this rule. Additionally, ensure you have sufficient blank pages (typically 2-3) for entry/exit stamps. Airlines may deny boarding if your passport doesn't meet destination country requirements. Renew your passport if it expires within 6 months of your planned travel.

Can Zimbabwean citizens work abroad with their passport, or do they need special permits?

A Zimbabwean passport alone does not grant the right to work abroad. You must obtain a work visa or permit from your destination country. Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access is typically for tourism only (15-90 days) and prohibits employment. To work legally in countries like South Africa, Botswana, UK, USA, Canada, or Australia, you need employer sponsorship and a separate work permit. SADC countries may have relaxed rules for intra-regional work permits.

How has the Zimbabwe passport ranking changed over the years?

Zimbabwe's passport ranking has fluctuated significantly: it ranked 56th globally in 2006 (41 visa-free destinations), dropped to 82nd in 2015 (58 destinations), improved to 75th in 2020 (65 destinations), reached 76th in 2024 (66 destinations), but declined to 80th in 2025 (63 destinations). The recent drop reflects tightened visa policies by some countries. Despite fluctuations, regional African travel remains strong, and e-visa options have expanded to 37 countries.

Zimbabwe Passport Ranking – Visa Free Access to 63 Countries

The Zimbabwe passport currently ranks 80th globally in 2025, offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 63 destinations worldwide. This travel document provides relatively limited international mobility compared to top-ranking passports, with access primarily to African nations and select countries in Asia and the Americas. Zimbabwe passport holders typically require visas for major destinations in Europe, North America, and Australia. The passport's ranking has fluctuated over the past two decades, ranging from 56th position in 2006 to its current standing, reflecting the country's diplomatic relations and international agreements.

Global Rank

#80

out of 199 countries

Visa Free Access

countries worldwide

Mobility Score

out of 100 points

Quick Statistics for Zimbabwe passport

Visa-Free

On Arrival

ETA Required

E-Visa

126

Visa Required

Source: Skyscanner & Official Government Websites.

Top Visa-Free Destinations for Zimbabwean Citizens

Popular destinations where Zimbabwe passport holders can travel without a visa:

Country	Maximum Stay	Code
Mauritius	Up to 90 days	MU
Kenya	Up to 90 days	KE
Botswana	Up to 90 days	BW
Zambia	Up to 90 days	ZM
Mozambique	Up to 90 days	MZ

Visa Requirements by Country

Complete breakdown of visa requirements for Zimbabwe passport holders

✅ Visa-Free

39 countries

🛬 Visa on Arrival

21 countries

🔐 ETA Required

3 countries

Sri Lanka
Seychelles
St. Kitts and Nevis

💻 E-Visa

37 countries

❌ Visa Required

126 countries

Historical Ranking Trend

Zimbabwe's passport ranking progression from 2006 to 2025

Trend: Declined by 24 positions from 2006 to 2025

Official Zimbabwe Passport & Travel Resources

Access official government resources for passport services, travel advisories, and visa information:

🔗

Zimbabwe Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade

🔗

Zimbabwe Immigration Department

🔗

Zimbabwe Civil Registry Department

Compare Zimbabwe Passport with Other Passports

See how Zimbabwe's passport compares with other AFRICA in the same ranking tier:

Country	Rank	Visa-Free Destinations	Mobility Score	Global Score
Zimbabwe (You are here)	#80	63	42/100	21/100
eSwatini	#70	73	42/100	65/100
Morocco	#70	73	42/100	65/100
Malawi	#71	72	28/100	64/100
Kenya	#73	70	45/100	63/100
The Gambia	#73	70	45/100	63/100

*Mobility score calculated based on visa-free access and global travel freedom.

*Global score reflects overall passport strength considering various factors.

Frequently Asked Questions:

As of 2025, Zimbabwean passport holders can access 63 destinations visa-free. The passport ranks 80th globally on the Henley Passport Index. Visa-free destinations include several African countries (Botswana, Kenya, South Africa, Zambia, Tanzania), Asian nations (Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Philippines), and Caribbean islands (Barbados, Bahamas, Trinidad and Tobago). Additionally, 21 countries offer visa-on-arrival and 37 provide e-visa options.

Explore More Passport Rankings

Discover Zimbabwe's passport power and compare with other countries to find the world's most powerful travel documents.

View All Passport Rankings

Last Updated: November 9, 2025

Source: IATA Travel Centre, Skyscanner & Official Government Websites.

Zimbabwe Passport Ranking – Visa Free Access to 63 Countries

Country

Maximum Stay

Code

Up to 90 days

Up to 90 days

Up to 90 days

Up to 90 days

Up to 90 days

Historical Ranking Trend

Zimbabwe's passport ranking progression from 2006 to 2025

Trend: Declined by 24 positions from 2006 to 2025

Compare Zimbabwe Passport with Other Passports

See how Zimbabwe's passport compares with other AFRICA in the same ranking tier:

Country	Rank	Visa-Free Destinations	Mobility Score	Global Score
Zimbabwe (You are here)	#80	63	42/100	21/100
eSwatini	#70	73	42/100	65/100
Morocco	#70	73	42/100	65/100
Malawi	#71	72	28/100	64/100
Kenya	#73	70	45/100	63/100
The Gambia	#73	70	45/100	63/100

*Mobility score calculated based on visa-free access and global travel freedom.

*Global score reflects overall passport strength considering various factors.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Quick Statistics for Zimbabwe passport

Top Visa-Free Destinations for Zimbabwean Citizens

Visa Requirements by Country

✅ Visa-Free

🛬 Visa on Arrival

🔐 ETA Required

💻 E-Visa

❌ Visa Required

Historical Ranking Trend

Zimbabwe's passport ranking progression from 2006 to 2025

Official Zimbabwe Passport & Travel Resources

Compare Zimbabwe Passport with Other Passports

Frequently Asked Questions:

How many countries can Zimbabwean passport holders visit without a visa in 2025?

Do Zimbabwean citizens need a visa to visit South Africa, Botswana, or Zambia?

Can Zimbabweans travel to the UK, USA, or Canada without a visa?

Which popular tourist destinations offer visa-on-arrival for Zimbabwe passport holders?

How do I apply for a Zimbabwean passport and what documents are required?

Can Zimbabwean passport holders get e-visas for popular destinations like Turkey, UAE, and India?

Is military service mandatory for Zimbabwean citizens, and does it affect passport issuance?

What is the passport validity requirement for international travel with a Zimbabwean passport?

Can Zimbabwean citizens work abroad with their passport, or do they need special permits?

How has the Zimbabwe passport ranking changed over the years?

Explore More Passport Rankings

Quick Statistics for Zimbabwe passport

Top Visa-Free Destinations for Zimbabwean Citizens

Visa Requirements by Country

✅ Visa-Free

🛬 Visa on Arrival

🔐 ETA Required

💻 E-Visa

❌ Visa Required

Historical Ranking Trend

Zimbabwe's passport ranking progression from 2006 to 2025

Official Zimbabwe Passport & Travel Resources

Compare Zimbabwe Passport with Other Passports

Frequently Asked Questions:

How many countries can Zimbabwean passport holders visit without a visa in 2025?

Do Zimbabwean citizens need a visa to visit South Africa, Botswana, or Zambia?

Can Zimbabweans travel to the UK, USA, or Canada without a visa?

Which popular tourist destinations offer visa-on-arrival for Zimbabwe passport holders?

How do I apply for a Zimbabwean passport and what documents are required?

Can Zimbabwean passport holders get e-visas for popular destinations like Turkey, UAE, and India?

Is military service mandatory for Zimbabwean citizens, and does it affect passport issuance?

What is the passport validity requirement for international travel with a Zimbabwean passport?

Can Zimbabwean citizens work abroad with their passport, or do they need special permits?

How has the Zimbabwe passport ranking changed over the years?

Explore More Passport Rankings