If you’re looking to reside in Zambia for an extended period, you must apply for a residence permit in Zambia. Whether you apply in-person or online, it’s essential to follow the procedures carefully to ensure your application is processed smoothly. Below is a comprehensive guide to help you navigate through the application process, required documents, and important information.
Apply In-Person for a Residence Permit in Zambia
To begin your application for a residence permit in Zambia, visit the nearest Immigration Office in your area. A full list of the main offices can be found on the official website. Upon arrival, you’ll be provided with an application form, which you will need to fill out in the office.
Before submitting the form, ensure you have all the required documents listed on the official guidelines. After filling out the form, you must pay the application fee at the office. The fee must be submitted to the designated authorities. Once the payment is processed, and all prerequisites are met, your application will be submitted to the relevant authorities.
It’s important to maintain regular contact with the immigration office for updates on your application’s status and to ensure a smooth process.
Apply for a Residence Permit Online
For those who prefer an online application, follow these steps:
- Visit the Online Registration Portal
Go to the official online registration portal and log in if you already have an account. If not, you can create a new account by providing details such as your name, email, and passport number. Select the Type of Representative from the drop-down menu and click the “Register” button. - Complete Your Profile
Once registered, log in with your credentials and access your profile. The system will prompt you to fill out your details, which are organized into three sections: Identity, Address, and Contact. Fill out all the required information and save it once completed. - Fill Out the Application Form
After saving your contact details, navigate to the “My Workplace” section. There, you’ll find links to “Find a Permit” and “Apply for a Variation.” Select the residence permit from the list and proceed to complete the application form. - Review and Upload Documents
Review the application requirements, scan and upload the necessary documents. After uploading, click “Next.” Preview the completed form as a PDF, which you can print or save for your records. - Make the Payment
If the details are correct, proceed to the payment page. You will be redirected to a secure bank site to process your payment. Enter your billing details and complete the payment. - Confirmation
After payment, you will be returned to the Payment Receipt page where you can download or print your payment receipt. To finalize, click on the “Finish” button. Your application case number will be generated, and you can track its status via the portal.
Required Documents for Zambia Residence Permit
The required documents vary depending on the applicant’s age.
Applicants Aged 7–15 Years:
- Covering letter addressed to the Director-General of Immigration
- Certified copy of a valid passport (bio-data & last endorsement stamp)
- Certified copy of birth certificate
- Recent passport-size photograph
- Adoption certificate (if applicable)
- Proof of enrolment at an educational institution (for students)
Applicants Above 16 Years:
- Covering letter addressed to the Director-General of Immigration
- Certified copy of birth certificate
- Certified copy of marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Recent passport-size photograph
- Two testimonials from people who have known the applicant for at least three years
- Certified copy of a valid passport
- Proof of enrolment at an educational institution (for students)
Both categories of applicants must submit the prescribed fee along with the application.
Eligibility for a Residence Permit in Zambia
To qualify for a residence permit, the applicant must meet one of the following conditions:
- A foreigner who has held an Employment Permit for over 10 years
- A dependant (under 21 years) of a valid permit holder
- A foreigner with an Investor’s Permit for over 3 years
- A foreigner married to a Zambian citizen for over 5 years
- A person born to a Zambian citizen
- A retiree with sufficient funds for their stay
Zambia Residence Permit Fees and Validity
The application fee varies based on the type of permit and specific requirements. The residence permit is valid indefinitely unless revoked by the immigration authorities.
Immigration Office Contact Information
For any queries or further assistance, you can visit the Zambia Immigration Office:
- Location: Kent Building, Haile Selassie Road, Lusaka, Zambia
- Contact: Official Website Contact Page
Important Considerations
- A residence permit is invalid if the holder fails to enter Zambia within six months from the issuance date or stays out of the country for over six months without notifying immigration.
- It is also invalid if the holder has been absent for more than 12 months.
Conclusion
Applying for a residence permit in Zambia requires careful preparation and attention to the outlined steps. Whether you choose to apply in person or online, ensuring that all documents are in order and payments are completed is crucial. Stay in contact with immigration authorities to track your application’s progress.
For further details or any updates, make sure to visit the official Zambia Immigration website.
By following these steps and ensuring you meet all eligibility criteria, you can successfully apply for a residence permit in Zambia and enjoy a smooth process towards permanent residency in Zambia.
