Malawi offers various visa types for foreign visitors, including single-entry and multiple-entry tourist visas, business visas, work permits, and student visas. Requirements include a valid passport, completed application form, passport-sized photos, proof of accommodation, and payment of the visa fee. Application can be made online or at the Malawi High Commission or Embassy in your country. Processing times may vary.
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Important informations
| Who Needs a Visa? | Visa Exemptions |
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| Holders of: |
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Who Needs a Visa for Malawi?
Citizens of the following countries do not require a visa to enter Malawi for tourism or business purposes for a specified duration: Angola, Argentina, Belize, Brazil, China, Cuba, Egypt, Ethiopia, Fiji, India, Jamaica, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Peru, Rwanda, Sao Tome and Principe, Senegal, Seychelles, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Tanzania, Thailand, Tonga, Uganda, Venezuela, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. For other nationalities, a Malawi visa is required and can be obtained prior to travel or upon arrival at the port of entry. The type and duration of the visa depend on the purpose and intended length of stay in Malawi. It is recommended to check the latest visa requirements with the Malawian embassy or consulate in your country before traveling.
How to Apply for a Malawi Visa?
To apply for a Malawi visa, follow these steps: First, determine the type of visa you require based on the purpose and duration of your stay. Malawi offers various visa categories, including single-entry, multiple-entry, transit, business, and work visas.
Next, gather the necessary documents, which typically include a valid passport with at least six months’ validity, a completed visa application form, one recent passport-size photograph, proof of sufficient funds, and travel itinerary. For certain visa categories, additional documents may be required.
You can submit your application in person at the Malawi High Commission or Embassy in your country, or through an authorized visa agency. Alternatively, you can apply online through the Malawi Department of Immigration’s website. The application fee must be paid at the time of submission.
Processing times vary depending on the type of visa and the volume of applications. Applicants are advised to apply well in advance of their intended travel date. Once approved, the visa will be stamped in your passport or sent electronically if you applied online.
It is essential to ensure that all information provided is accurate and complete to avoid delays or denial of your application. If you have any questions or concerns, contact the Malawi High Commission or Embassy in your country for assistance.
Malawi Visa Requirements
Malawi visa requirements include obtaining a valid Malawi visa prior to travel for most nationalities. The Malawi visa can be obtained through the Malawi High Commission or Embassy in your country, or online through the Malawi Immigration Department’s website. The types of visas available include single entry, multiple entry, and transit visas, each with varying validity periods. Applicants must provide supporting documents such as a valid passport with at least six months validity, a completed visa application form, and proof of sufficient funds for their stay in Malawi. The visa application fee varies depending on the type and length of stay. It is recommended to apply for a Malawi visa well in advance of travel to allow sufficient processing time.
Duration of a Malawi Visa
A Malawi visa comes in various durations depending on the purpose and intended length of stay. For tourists, a single-entry visa is valid for up to 30 days, while multiple-entry visas can last up to one year. Business visas can range from one month to one year, and work permits can be issued for up to three years. All visas can be extended upon request and payment of the appropriate fees. It is essential to apply for the correct visa duration to avoid overstaying or having to apply for a new visa unnecessarily.
Malawi Visa Fees
Malawi visa fees vary depending on the type of visa and the length of stay. As of now, a single-entry tourist visa costs $75 for US citizens, £60 for UK citizens, and €75 for European citizens, valid for 30 days. A multiple-entry tourist visa costs $150 for US citizens, £120 for UK citizens, and €150 for European citizens, valid for one year. Business visas and work permits have higher fees. It’s important to note that these fees are subject to change and it’s best to check the Malawi High Commission or Embassy website for the most up-to-date information. Visa applications can be submitted online or at the Malawi High Commission or Embassy. Payment methods include credit card, debit card, or bank transfer. Processing times may take up to two weeks for tourist visas and longer for other types of visas.
Malawi Visa Types
Malawi offers several types of visas for foreign nationals intending to enter the country. The primary categories include:
1. Tourist Visa: This visa is issued to individuals planning to visit Malawi for leisure purposes, such as sightseeing, attending conferences, or visiting friends and family. Tourist visas are typically valid for up to 30 days, but extensions are available.
2. Business Visa: Intended for individuals traveling to Malawi for business-related activities, this visa allows for attending business meetings, negotiating contracts, or setting up a business. Business visas can be valid for up to 90 days and can be extended.
3. Work Visa: For foreigners seeking employment in Malawi, a work visa is required. This visa is issued based on a job offer from a Malawian employer and is typically valid for the duration of the employment contract.
4. Student Visa: Students planning to study in Malawi for more than three months must apply for a student visa. This visa is issued upon acceptance into a recognized educational institution and is valid for the duration of the academic program.
5. Transit Visa: This visa is issued to individuals passing through Malawi en route to another country. It is typically valid for up to 72 hours.
6. Diplomatic Visa: Diplomats, consular officers, and their families are issued diplomatic visas, which allow for the performance of their official duties in Malawi.
7. Spouse/Dependent Visa: Foreign spouses and dependents of Malawian citizens or permanent residents may apply for a spouse/dependent visa, which allows them to reside in Malawi with their family member.
8. Retirement Visa: Malawi offers a retirement visa for individuals aged 50 and above who wish to retire in the country. This visa is valid for up to five years and can be renewed.
9. Investor Visa: This visa is issued to foreign investors who intend to invest in Malawi’s economy. It is typically valid for the duration of the investment project.
Interesting Places to Visit in Malawi
Malawi, the „Warm Heart of Africa,” is known for its unique and captivating attractions. The most famous is Lake Malawi, the third largest lake in Africa, offering visitors opportunities for swimming, fishing, and water sports. For nature lovers, the Nyika National Park and the Vwaza Marsh Wildlife Reserve provide breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife, including elephants, zebras, and various bird species. History buffs can explore the ancient ruins of the Maravi Empire at the Maswa Site Museum. Lastly, the Mulanje Mountain, with its stunning views and challenging hiking trails, is a must-visit for adventure seekers. These diverse offerings make Malawi an intriguing and memorable destination for travelers.
Eligible countries
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Israel
- Saint Lucia
- Bahamas
- Jamaica
- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
- Barbados
- Kenya
- Samoa
- Belize
- Kiribati
- Seychelles
- Botswana
- Lesotho
- South Africa
- Dominica
- Malaysia
- Tanzania
- Eswatini
- Mauritius
- Trinidad and Tobago
- Fiji
- Mozambique
- Tuvalu
- Gambia
- Namibia
- Uganda
- Grenada
- Nauru
- Zambia
- Hong Kong*
- Saint Kitts and Nevis
- Zimbabwe
*Citizens of Hong Kong can stay in Malawi for 30 days without a visa.
Summary
The Republic of Malawi, located in Southern Africa, requires visas for most foreign nationals. Exemptions include citizens of Antigua and Barbuda, Israel, Saint Lucia, Bahamas, Jamaica, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Barbados, Kenya, Samoa, Belize, Kiribati, Seychelles, Botswana, Lesotho, South Africa, Dominica, Malaysia, Tanzania, Eswatini, Mauritius, Trinidad and Tobago, Fiji, Mozambique, Tuvalu, Gambia, Namibia, Uganda, Grenada, Nauru, Zambia, Hong Kong, Saint Kitts and Nevis, and Zimbabwe.
To apply for a Malawi visa, foreigners can choose from three options: applying online, at the port of entry, or at the embassy or consulate of Malawi. Online applications require filling out the form, attaching supporting documents, and paying the fee online. Port of entry applications are only available to certain nationalities. Embassy or consulate applications involve booking an appointment, filling out the form, submitting documents, and waiting for a response.
Malawi visa requirements include a valid passport, completed and signed application form, travel itinerary, flight reservation/confirmation, bank statement, criminal record, and fee payment receipt. The duration of a Malawi visa is between one to three months, and the fees range from $50 for a transit visa to $250 for a multiple entry visa valid for twelve months.
Malawi offers various visa types, including tourist, official, transit, diplomatic, courtesy, work, and study visas. Tourists can visit beautiful places like Malawi Lake, Nyika Plateau National Park, Lilongwe, Mzuzu, and Kande Beach. Malawi Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in the Southern Hemisphere, home to over 1,000 fish species, and has a temperature of 24°C – 29°C (75°F – 84°F) all year round. The Nyika Plateau National Park is one of the largest parks in Malawi and offers an unforgettable experience for visitors. Lilongwe is the capital city, known for its beautiful markets, cafes, and essential services. Mzuzu is famous for its large clothes markets, where visitors can find clothes from various brands at affordable prices. Kande Beach is a popular destination for relaxation and various activities like swimming, horseback riding, snorkeling, and diving.