Zimbabwe Visa RequirementsFor United Kingdom passport holders
UK citizens can obtain a visa on arrival in Zimbabwe for $55 USD (single entry, 30 days). A KAZA Univisa option is also available for $50.
United Kingdom passport holders can obtain a Visa on Arrival at Zimbabwe ports of entry.
Obtain a visa on arrival for $55 USD (single entry, 30 days). Pay in US dollars cash at the immigration counter. Alternatively, the KAZA Univisa costs $50 USD and covers both Zimbabwe and Zambia — ideal if you plan to visit Victoria Falls from both sides or visit Zambia's Livingstone. The KAZA Univisa is available at Harare, Livingstone (Zambia), Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe), and Kazungula border posts. You can also apply for an e-Visa in advance at evisa.gov.zw to avoid queues on arrival.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Required Documents
Valid UK Passport
Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond planned stay
Visa Fee Payment
$55 USD cash for single entry 30-day visa on arrival (or $50 for KAZA Univisa covering Zimbabwe and Zambia)
Proof of Onward Travel
Return or onward flight ticket
Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate Recommended
Required if arriving from a yellow fever endemic country
Current Travel Situation
United Kingdom to Zimbabwe: What You Need to Know
Zimbabwe is home to Victoria Falls (one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World), Hwange National Park, Great Zimbabwe ruins, and Mana Pools National Park. UK passport holders can obtain a visa on arrival at Harare International Airport and at major land border crossings. Zimbabwe and the UK have a complicated post-colonial history, but bilateral relations have improved significantly since the political transition in 2017. Zimbabwe uses the US dollar as its primary trading currency alongside the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) currency introduced in 2024. The country has experienced economic volatility; US dollar cash is the most reliable currency for tourists.
How to Get There
Zambia is the natural companion destination — Victoria Falls straddles the Zimbabwe-Zambia border. Botswana (Chobe National Park) is accessible from the Kazungula border crossing near Victoria Falls. Mozambique is accessible by road from eastern Zimbabwe. The classic Victoria Falls experience includes both the Zimbabwe and Zambia viewpoints — the KAZA Univisa makes crossing between the two easy.
Money & Banking
Zimbabwe officially uses multiple currencies, but US dollars are the most reliable for tourists. Bring a good supply of US dollar bills (small denominations are useful). Card acceptance is improving but unreliable in many areas. Avoid the ZiG currency for tourist transactions — it has experienced significant devaluation. ATMs in Harare and Victoria Falls dispense US dollars. Zimbabwe is moderately affordable when costs are paid in USD.
Practical Tips
Victoria Falls is best viewed from June to September (peak season, falls at full flow after rains, clear skies). April-May has the most spectacular water volume but heavy spray can obscure views. The falls are on the Zimbabwe-Zambia border and are accessible from both sides. Activities include bungee jumping, white-water rafting (seasonal), helicopter flights, and game drives. Malaria is a risk throughout Zimbabwe; prophylaxis is recommended. The UK FCO (Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office) maintains current safety advisories.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do UK citizens get a visa for Zimbabwe?
UK citizens can get a visa on arrival for $55 USD (single entry, 30 days). Pay in cash at the immigration counter on arrival. Alternatively, apply online in advance at evisa.gov.zw or get a KAZA Univisa for $50 covering both Zimbabwe and Zambia.
What is the KAZA Univisa and is it worth it?
The KAZA Univisa costs $50 USD and allows unlimited crossings between Zimbabwe and Zambia within the Kavango-Zambezi Conservation Area. It is worth getting if you plan to see Victoria Falls from both countries or visit Zambia's Chobe border area. Available at main border posts.
Do I need malaria tablets for Zimbabwe?
Yes. Malaria is present throughout Zimbabwe, particularly in lower-lying areas like Victoria Falls and Mana Pools. Consult your doctor about appropriate antimalarial prophylaxis before travel and use mosquito repellent and nets.