Living in Zambia: the ultimate expat guide

Zambia significantly simplified its entry requirements in January 2025, making relocation and business development considerably easier for international professionals.

Expanded visa exemption

From January 1, 2025, nationals from 167 countries and territories can enter Zambia without a visa, up from 114 previously. This covers all EU countries, the UK, US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and many others. Visitors can stay up to 90 days per year for tourism or 30 days per year for business. Tourist stays can be extended twice for an additional 30 days each, reaching the 90-day annual maximum. This exemption provides substantial advantages for market exploration and gradual relocation planning.

Electronic visa (e-Visa)

For stays requiring formal visa authorization, Zambia's electronic system offers several options. The Single Entry Visa costs USD 25 for one entry over 90 days. The Double Entry Visa at USD 40 permits two entries during the same period. Professionals making frequent trips benefit from the Multiple Entry Visa at USD 75, allowing unlimited entries for 90 days.

The KAZA Univisa, priced at USD 50 for 30 days, covers both Zambia and Zimbabwe with a day trip to Botswana via Kazungula border post included. This suits tourism professionals and expats exploring the region.

Applications are submitted entirely online through the official platform. Processing takes 3 to 5 business days depending on visa type. Required documents include a valid passport, ID photo, flight tickets, and accommodation bookings.

Work permits

Professional opportunities in Zambia require obtaining an appropriate work permit. The Temporary Employment Permit suits short-term assignments of 3 months, renewable once to reach a maximum of 6 months within 12 months. This permit can be requested after arriving in Zambia on a business visa, with processing taking 1 to 2 weeks. Costs range from ZMW 3,000 to ZMW 10,000 (approximately USD 110 to USD 360).

For longer contracts, the Employment Permit is required. Valid for up to 2 years and renewable up to 10 years, it mandates that employers demonstrate no qualified Zambian national is available for the position. A mandatory succession plan must provide for training a local employee. Companies must maintain at least 2 resident directors in Zambia. The permit remains specific to the employer and position: any change requires a new application. Processing takes 4 to 6 weeks.

Required documentation includes an employer letter justifying the need, employment contract, certified academic and professional qualifications, succession/training plan, and a passport valid for minimum 6 months. Work permits are not issued for HR positions, which are reserved for Zambian nationals.

Residence permits

The Residence Permit applies to spouses of Zambian citizens, established long-term residents, or current residence permit holders. The document becomes invalid after absence exceeding 6 months without prior notification, or 12 months total. Procedure details are available on the Immigration Department website.

Zambia's labor market shows an employment rate of 62.86% projected for 2025, with a workforce of 7.51 million people. Official unemployment sits around 6%, though some national estimates place it higher. Average net salary hovers around USD 280 monthly, reflecting moderate living costs but insufficient for expat lifestyle expectations.

Key employment sectors

The mining and metals industry dominates Zambia's economy. The country holds the world's 8th largest copper reserves and also extracts cobalt, zinc, lead, and coal. This sector regularly recruits qualified foreign engineers, technicians, and managers.

Agriculture engages 85% of the population and contributes 19% to GDP. Coffee, maize, sunflower, cotton, sugarcane production, and livestock farming create opportunities in agribusiness and exports. The sector benefits from attractive tax incentives.

Tourism is experiencing remarkable growth, with 1.2 million international visitors recorded by mid-2025, targeting 2.4 million by year-end. Victoria Falls and national parks attract affluent international clientele, creating demand for qualified personnel in hospitality, guiding, and tourism management.

Telecommunications, construction and infrastructure, and energy sectors, particularly hydroelectric projects and renewables, also show sustained development.

Key labor market indicators:

Sources: Trading Economics, Statista, Numbeo

Starting a business

Zambian legislation strongly encourages foreign investment. Since the Companies Act 2017, 100% foreign ownership is permitted without local shareholder requirements. This openness significantly facilitates business creation for expats.

Available legal structures include Private Limited Company (most common for SMEs), Public Limited Company for large enterprises seeking public financing, Sole Proprietorship, Partnership, and Branch Office (foreign company subsidiary).

Registration procedure

Business registration is handled by the Patents and Companies Registration Agency (PACRA). First, reserve your company name after checking availability, costing ZMW 83. Prepare the complete file including Certificate of Incorporation, Articles of Association, director and shareholder details, Statutory Declaration of Compliance, proof of physical address, and identification documents.

Submission can be done online via the e-registration system or in person. After paying registration fees, the Certificate of Incorporation is issued within 3-5 business days. Costs vary by structure: ZMW 250 for Sole Proprietorship/Partnership, ZMW 1,000 for Limited Liability Company, ZMW 1,090 for Private Company (minimum capital ZMW 15,000), and ZMW 38,215 for Public Company (minimum capital ZMW 1.5 million).

Post-incorporation requirements

Several mandatory registrations follow company creation. Tax registration with the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) secures your Taxpayer Identification Number (TPIN), essential for all operations. If hiring employees, register with NAPSA (social security).

Open a business bank account with institutions like Absa, Ecobank, FNB, or UBA. The Trade License from the Zambia Development Agency (ZDA) costs ZMW 14,916 (ZMW 2,133 processing + ZMW 12,783 certificate). VAT registration becomes mandatory if turnover exceeds ZMW 800,000 annually or ZMW 200,000 over 3 months.

Annual obligations include submitting Annual Returns to PACRA (ZMW 200 for sole proprietorship/partnership or ZMW 450 for LLC) and tax filings. Late penalties are calculated per day of delay.

Tax incentives

The Zambian government offers attractive tax benefits for certain sectors. Agriculture and agro-processing receive a 10% reduction on corporate tax. Priority sectors like tourism and manufacturing can obtain up to 5 years of tax exemption. Mining and agricultural companies benefit from dividend exemption for 5 years, and can carry forward losses up to 10 years for mining and energy. Companies operating in Multi Facility Economic Zones enjoy 0% tax for the first 5 years, then reduced rates for the following 5 years.

Zambia's tax system operates on a source-based taxation principle, with progressive rates for individuals and varying regimes by business sector. The fiscal year aligns with the calendar year, January 1 to December 31.

Personal income tax

Personal income taxation, collected through the PAYE (Pay As You Earn) mechanism, applies progressive rates by bracket. For 2025, annual income up to ZMW 61,200 (approximately USD 2,267) is tax-free. The bracket from ZMW 61,201 to ZMW 85,200 (USD 2,268 to USD 3,156) is taxed at 20%. Income from ZMW 85,201 to ZMW 110,400 (USD 3,157 to USD 4,089) carries a 30% rate, while income exceeding ZMW 110,400 (over USD 4,089) is taxed at 37%.

An employee earning ZMW 100,000 annually pays ZMW 20,910 in tax, an effective rate of 20.9%, for net income of ZMW 79,090 (ZMW 6,591 monthly). Residents are taxed on Zambian income plus foreign interest and dividends, while non-residents are taxed only on Zambian-source income.

Value Added Tax (VAT)

Zambian VAT applies at a standard rate of 16%. Certain basic products carry a zero rate, and health services, education, and certain food products are exempt. VAT registration becomes mandatory when annual turnover exceeds ZMW 800,000 over 12 months or ZMW 200,000 over 3 months.

Corporate tax

The standard corporate tax rate stands at 30%. However, several sectors apply specific rates: telecommunications are taxed at 35% uniformly since January 2023, while banking bears 35% on normal income and 40% on profits exceeding ZMW 250 million. Agriculture and agro-processing benefit from a preferential 10% rate, and public-private partnership projects are taxed at 15% during their first 5 years. Small businesses with turnover below ZMW 800 million annually have enjoyed a reduced 5% rate since January 2025.

NHIMA social contributions

The NHIMA (National Health Insurance) national health system imposes a mandatory 2% payroll contribution, split equally between employee (1%) and employer (1%). This applies to all permanent employees and must be paid within 30 days of hiring. Access to health services begins 4 months after registration.

Withholding tax

The withholding tax system applies a 20% rate on dividends, interest, royalties, commissions, and management or consultancy fees. Residential rent exceeding ZMW 800,000 annually carries a 10% withholding (final tax) or 16% depending on circumstances since January 2025. Payments to contractors also incur 20% withholding. For non-residents, the standard rate is 20%, unless covered by a tax treaty.

Zambia has signed double taxation agreements with several countries, impacting applicable rates. These include South Africa, UK, China, India, France, Germany, Netherlands, Norway, and Sweden.

Turnover Tax and Property Transfer Tax

Turnover Tax applies to businesses with turnover up to ZMW 5 million annually (raised from ZMW 800,000), at a 5% rate (increased from 4% since January 2025). Property Transfer Tax levies 5% on market value when transferring ownership of land, buildings, and shares in Zambian companies.

2025 tax measures

Several important measures took effect in January 2025. Advance Income Tax of 15% now applies to remittances exceeding USD 2,000 without a Tax Clearance Certificate (TCC), as well as exports without valid TCC. Loss carryforward limitation, previously restricted to mining, now extends to all sectors: losses are deductible up to 50% of annual income. The Skills Development Levy becomes deductible before actual payment.

TCC is required for property transfers, vehicle registration, commercial license issuance, remittances exceeding USD 2,000, and exports. This certificate must be renewed regularly to maintain validity.

Zambia's healthcare system combines public and private sectors, managed by the Ministry of Health. Understanding its functioning and securing appropriate coverage is essential for any expat.

Public sector and National Health Insurance

The public system comprises 2,810 government facilities distributed nationwide. Since 2021, primary care has been free for all residents. However, the system suffers chronic shortages of healthcare professionals, equipment, and medications. Health expenditure reaches USD 76 per capita (2022), with 41.4% government-funded.

National Health Insurance (NHIMA), launched January 2019, requires a 2% salary contribution (1% employee + 1% employer) for all residents over 18 with income. Service access begins 4 months after registration. The system covers secondary and tertiary hospital services, but not primary care which remains free. The 2022-2026 Strategic Plan estimates 1,277,960 principal members, though experts note the small formal sector limits available contributions.

Private sector and quality of care

The private network includes 381 private facilities and 105 faith-based structures, primarily concentrated in major cities like Lusaka and Ndola. These establishments offer more modern equipment and significantly shorter wait times than the public sector, justifying higher costs.

In Lusaka, expats primarily visit University Teaching Hospital (public), Levy Mwanawasa Hospital, Fairview Hospital (private), or Medlands Hospital (private). In Ndola, Ndola Teaching Hospital and various private clinics serve patients. Most expats prefer private facilities for superior service quality.

Health insurance for expats

Two options exist for expats: local insurance and international insurance. Local insurance covers the specific country, proves more economical but applies stricter limits. International insurance offers worldwide coverage, access to premium facilities, and greater flexibility.

SES Zambia leads the local market for over 25 years, offering family and individual packages including hospitalization, outpatient care, maternity, dental, and optical services, with emergency evacuation. Their network covers Zambia, South Africa, and India. International insurers present include Cigna (Silver, Gold, Platinum plans), AXA, Bupa Global, NOW Health International, and APRIL International.

Costs vary considerably based on coverage, age, and health status. Basic local insurance runs USD 100-300 monthly, while comprehensive international insurance ranges from USD 200 to USD 1,000+ monthly. Including medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended, as transfer costs to neighboring countries for specialized care are very high.

Health challenges

The country faces significant health challenges. 1.1 million people live with HIV/AIDS, and infectious diseases like malaria and typhoid present high risk. Only 65% of the population accesses safe drinking water and 43.9% benefit from improved sanitation. These realities justify heightened vigilance in prevention and solid health coverage.

Selecting the right school represents a crucial decision for expat families. Zambia offers a local education system and several quality international schools, mainly concentrated in Lusaka and the Copperbelt.

Zambian education system

The local system provides free education through grade 7, with schooling beginning at age 7. Primary education covers grades 1-7, concluding with an Examination Council of Zambia exam. Junior secondary (grades 8-9) ends with the Junior Secondary Education Exam, followed by upper secondary (grades 10-12). English serves as the language of instruction in public schools, and the academic year runs January to December, divided into 3 terms.

Teaching quality varies and generally falls below international standards, particularly in rural areas. Most expat families opt for international schools to ensure educational continuity and internationally recognized qualifications.

International schools in Lusaka

American International School of Lusaka (AISL), located at 487 A/F/3 Leopards Hill Road, serves students aged 3-18 from preschool through grade 12. Founded in 1986 on a 25-acre campus, it offers an American curriculum complemented by the IB Diploma Programme. The school holds accreditation from the Council of International Schools and Middle States Association. The academic year runs mid-August to mid-June, with 2025 annual fees ranging from USD 6,000 to USD 21,430 by level.

International School of Lusaka (ISL), established in Ridgeway since 1963, is the country's oldest international school. It serves 700 students from 60 nationalities, aged 2-18. Programs cover Early Years Programme, Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme, IGCSE, and IB Diploma. The school holds accreditation from International Baccalaureate, Council of International Schools, New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Association of International Schools in Africa, and Independent Schools Association in Zambia. Annual fees for 2024-25 are available on request via the admissions portal.

Lusaka International Community School (LICS) offers an international curriculum with facilities including art studios, sports fields, and traditional classrooms. Lusaka Oaktree School follows the Cambridge International School program.

Banani International Secondary School, located at Plot #2161/B Maimwene Road, is an all-girls school for grades 6-12 with boarding available. The establishment follows the Zambian Ministry of Education syllabus enriched with Bahá'í faith principles. This not-for-profit school requires mandatory Sunday devotion.

International school in the Copperbelt

Simba International School in Ndola, located on Airport Road, enjoys an excellent reputation as one of Zambia's best independent schools. The private establishment offers boarding (Tau House) and serves students from Ndola, Luanshya, Kitwe, plus secondary students from Lusaka. The 2025/26 academic year begins August 29, 2025.

Tuition costs

International school fees represent a major budget item for families. Primary costs range from USD 4,000 to USD 15,000 annually, while secondary runs USD 6,000 to USD 25,000 annually. Preschool averages USD 177 monthly. These amounts, plus additional costs (uniforms, activities, school transport), require careful financial planning.

Finding suitable accommodation is essential to settling in successfully. Zambia's property market offers diverse options, from city center apartments to secure compounds favored by expats.

Available housing types

The market offers four main housing categories. Apartments include studios and 1-3 bedroom units, located downtown or in suburbs. Houses are individual properties with gardens in residential areas. Compounds are secured residences with security guards, particularly popular with expats. Gated communities are closed complexes offering full services like pools, gyms, and 24/7 security.

Popular neighborhoods in Lusaka

Kabulonga stands as the upscale neighborhood par excellence, close to embassies and international schools. Rhodes Park offers a quiet, secure residential environment near the center. Woodlands appeals with its popular character, mix of locals and expats, and well-developed services. Makeni is experiencing strong development with numerous new constructions.

Leopards Hill positions itself as an exclusive area offering large properties, hosting the American International School. Roma provides a peaceful residential setting, while Ridgeway hosts the International School of Lusaka in an established neighborhood.

Rental rates and property prices

Lusaka rentals vary considerably by location and property quality. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center rents for an average of USD 211 monthly (range USD 134-300), versus USD 121 in suburbs (USD 77-180). For a 3-bedroom apartment, rates reach USD 959 monthly downtown (USD 460-2,000) and USD 745 in suburbs (USD 268-1,500).

Purchase prices per square meter stand at USD 322 downtown (USD 186-1,000) and USD 588 in suburbs (USD 186-1,505). This difference reflects modern secure compounds included in suburban statistics, which command higher prices.

Monthly utilities

Standard utilities for an 85 sqm apartment include electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage for about USD 70 monthly (USD 38-139 depending on property). High-speed internet (60 Mbps or more, unlimited) costs USD 46 monthly (USD 28-63). A mobile plan with calls and 10GB data runs USD 12 monthly (USD 5-23).

Rental process

Finding housing is done through real estate agencies, specialized websites, or expat networks. Viewings require thorough inspection of electricity, plumbing, and security systems. Prices are negotiable, especially for long-term contracts. Contracts typically run 12 months minimum, with a security deposit equivalent to 1-2 months' rent. Payment can be monthly, quarterly, or annual, with the latter often offering a discount.

Practical tips

Prioritize secure neighborhoods with 24/7 security guards, particularly if you have children. Verify proximity to international schools if applicable. Confirm access to running water and stable electricity, as these services can experience interruptions. Negotiate inclusion of maintenance and repairs in the lease. Request landlord references and verify stable internet connection availability in the area before committing.

Relocating to Zambia requires careful preparation and anticipation of numerous administrative and logistical formalities. This detailed checklist guides you through essential steps.

Pre-departure preparation

Ensure your passport remains valid for at least 6 months after your planned arrival date. Obtain appropriate visas for your situation: work visa or residence permit. Vaccinations are an absolute priority: yellow fever is mandatory, ideally complemented by vaccines for hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and tetanus.

Secure international health insurance including mandatory medical evacuation coverage, as local infrastructure is limited for certain specialized care. Gather all medical certificates, diplomas, and birth or marriage certificates. These official documents must be apostilled for recognition in Zambia.

Shipping arrangements

Choose an international mover experienced with African destinations, particularly Zambia. Several options are available: full container (20 or 40 feet) for large volume, groupage for fewer belongings, or air freight for urgent situations. Allow 4-8 weeks by sea from Europe.

Prepare a detailed inventory in English for Zambian customs. Your personal effects and furniture generally benefit from duty exemption if you can justify residence planned for over 12 months. This exemption represents substantial savings, so carefully preserve all residence documentation.

Essential documents to bring

Compile a file including passports and several copies, birth, marriage, or divorce certificates, diplomas and professional certifications, international driving license, complete medical records with prescriptions, employment contracts, proof of address in Zambia, and several recent ID photos.

Initial arrival procedures

Within 30 days of arrival, register with Immigration services. Open a bank account by presenting your passport, work or residence permit, and proof of address. If necessary, begin procedures for obtaining a Zambian driving license, with exchange possible depending on your country of origin.

Register with the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) to obtain your tax identification number. If employed, register with NHIMA within regulatory deadlines. Arrange connections for electricity, water, and internet at your residence, and obtain a local phone line to facilitate communications.

Vehicle considerations

Importing a personal vehicle remains possible but proves costly due to high import duties. Favor local purchase or long-term rental, often more advantageous. Driving is on the left. Your international license will be accepted temporarily, but conversion to a Zambian license becomes necessary for extended residence.

Zambia offers exceptional natural wealth and varied activities that quickly appeal to new residents. Between world heritage natural wonders and dynamic urban life, the country has no shortage of attractions.

Victoria Falls: spectacular natural wonder

Victoria Falls, known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya (the smoke that thunders), ranks among the 7 Natural Wonders of the World and holds UNESCO heritage status. Located on the Zambia-Zimbabwe border near Livingstone, they span 1,708 meters wide and reach 108 meters high. During peak season, over 500 million cubic meters of water plunge every minute, creating a striking spectacle.

The Zambian side, accessed via Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, allows viewing approximately 25% of the falls. Entry costs USD 30 per adult. Viewpoints include Knife-Edge Bridge and Boiling Pot (visible in low season). March to April offers maximum flow with intense spray. June and July provide balance between flow and visibility. September to November sees reduced flow but clear views reveal impressive basalt cliffs.

Activities abound: swim in Devil's Pool at the edge of the falls during low season, visit historic Livingstone Island, fly over the falls by helicopter or microlight during the famous "Flight of Angels" (12-25 minutes), bungee jump from Victoria Falls Bridge (111 meters), raft grade 5 rapids through Batoka Gorge (August-December), enjoy a sunset cruise on the Zambezi, or indulge in sport fishing.

National parks and safaris

South Luangwa National Park ranks among Africa's finest wildlife sanctuaries. It hosts the Big Five (lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalo) and became famous as the birthplace of walking safaris, offering more intimate wildlife experiences. Access is by flights from Lusaka.

Lower Zambezi National Park preserves remarkable wilderness. River safaris on the Zambezi, canoeing, tiger fishing, and observing elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and antelopes constitute main activities. Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, adjacent to Victoria Falls on the Zambian side, harbors giraffes, antelopes, white rhinos, zebras, and warthogs. Kafue National Park, one of Africa's largest, impresses with exceptional faunal diversity.

Sports and urban activities

Fitness clubs are present in Lusaka and major cities, with monthly membership around USD 47 (USD 18-63 depending on facilities). Tennis court rental for one hour on weekends costs USD 14. Outdoor activities include hiking, mountain biking, rafting, and kayaking. Several golf courses welcome enthusiasts in Lusaka.

Culture and crafts

Numerous traditional ceremonies from different ethnic groups punctuate the year. The Livingstone Museum and National Museum in Lusaka trace the country's history. Local markets, notably Kabwata Cultural Village in Lusaka, offer varied and authentic crafts.

Dining and nightlife

A meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs USD 7 (USD 4-11), while a meal for two at a mid-range restaurant runs USD 24 (USD 21-32). A fast-food combo costs USD 4. A pint of local beer costs under USD 1 (USD 0.57-1.82), and a cappuccino about USD 2. Cinema tickets cost USD 4 (USD 2.27-5.45), allowing enjoyment of latest releases at moderate prices.

Zambia's cost of living runs 54.4% lower than the United States, with significant variations depending on lifestyle and chosen neighborhoods. The average Zambian salary of USD 280 monthly remains insufficient for expat lifestyle, but international incomes offer excellent local purchasing power.

Single person budget

For a single person, housing constitutes the primary expense with average rent of USD 211 monthly for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center, or USD 121 in suburbs. Food and groceries represent approximately USD 250-350 monthly, including basic products and occasional restaurant meals.

Standard utilities include electricity, water, and garbage for an 85 sqm apartment (USD 70), high-speed internet at 60 Mbps (USD 46), and mobile plan with calls and 10GB data (USD 12). Local transport costs USD 0.74 per single ticket, or USD 39 for a monthly pass. Gasoline stands at USD 1.22 per liter, while a taxi kilometer runs about USD 1.68.

For leisure, count on a monthly gym membership at USD 47 and cinema ticket at USD 4. Occasional restaurants add USD 50-100 to the monthly budget. Private local health insurance costs USD 100-300, or USD 200-500 for international coverage with medical evacuation.

Key monthly budget items:

Source: Numbeo, September 2025

Family of 4 budget

For a family, rent for a 3-bedroom apartment runs USD 959 monthly in the city center or USD 745 in suburbs. Food and groceries increase proportionally to reach USD 600-900 monthly. Utilities (electricity, water, garbage) for a larger space cost USD 120-180, plus internet (USD 46) and mobile plans for two adults (USD 23).

Family transport represents USD 200-300 in fuel monthly, or USD 77 in public transport for two adults. Family leisure runs USD 150-300 monthly. International family health insurance, strongly recommended, costs USD 400-1,000.

International schooling by far constitutes the largest expense for expat families. For two children, budget USD 1,000-3,000 monthly, or USD 12,000-36,000 annually. Primary costs approximately USD 10,000-15,000 annually per child, while secondary reaches USD 15,000-21,000. If you have a young child in daycare, add USD 177 monthly per child.

Detailed family budget breakdown:

Source: Numbeo, September 2025

Schooling clearly represents the most significant budget item for expat families. With an appropriate international income, Zambia offers an excellent standard of living at moderate cost, particularly for singles and couples without school-age children.