A temporary work permit is issued to any business visitor who intends to stay in Zambia for a period exceeding thirty (30) days. The permit shall not be valid for more than six (6) months within a twelve (12) month period.

The Zambian government offers several different visa categories to foreign nationals. In addition to these visas, the government also issues work permits to foreign nationals working for companies located in Zambia. There are two types of Zambian work permits available to foreigners:

• Short-term work permit: A short-term work permit allows a foreign worker to work in Zambia for an initial period of up to three months. This permit can be renewed once, meaning its holder can live and work in Zambia for a maximum of six months.
• Long-term work permit: This permit is also called a work permit. A work permit gives the right to live and work in Zambia for up to two years. As with a short-term permit, the owner can extend this permit.
• It is not possible to switch from one type of permit to another after arriving in Zambia, so it is important to ensure that your employees have the correct permit from the outset.

Requirements for obtaining a work visa to Zambia

To apply for a work permit in Zambia, foreign nationals must provide the following documents:

1. Duly completed application form
2. A passport with at least six months of validity remaining and three or more blank pages
3. Two recent passport photos
4. Police certificate from the applicant's country of residence
5. Certified copies of all relevant documents proving the applicant's qualifications for the job, such as academic and professional certificates.
6. Job offer from a company located in Zambia
7. A cover letter from a potential employer

Application process

The process for applying for a work permit in Zambia may vary depending on the type of permit your employees require.

Foreign nationals who plan to work in Zambia on a short-term work permit can come to Zambia on a business visa and apply for a work permit upon arrival in the country. Applicants can apply for a business visa at the Zambian embassy or consulate in the country of residence. Requirements for obtaining a buфsiness visa include:

1. Valid passport
2. A copy of the first page of the applicant's passport
3. Payment of the visa fee
4. Completed visa application form
5. Two passport photos
6. Invitation letter
7. Official cover letter
8. A copy of the applicant's flight itinerary with confirmed booking.

After receiving the visa and moving to Zambia, the employee must apply for a work permit. The term for issuing a short-term work permit is usually one to two weeks. An employee cannot start work before obtaining a work permit.

Workers who need a long-term work permit must apply for one before traveling to Zambia. The processing time for such a permit is four to six weeks, so employees should plan accordingly. Foreign nationals must visit the nearest Zambian embassy to apply for a permit, just like for a visa. The Chief Immigration Officer of Zambia is responsible for issuing the permit and determining its validity period. After receiving the permit, the employee can come to Zambia and start working.

Other important considerations

Zambia is somewhat unique in that a work permit entitles its holder, as well as his/her spouse and dependents, to stay in Zambia. Foreign workers should check with the Zambian embassy or consulate about any additional requirements for family members, such as marriage or birth certificates.