Zimbabwe has officially launched a new digital immigration process requiring all non-resident visitors to complete an online arrival form before travelling to the country. The initiative, implemented immediately by the Airports Company of Zimbabwe (ACZ), marks a significant shift from paper-based arrivals documentation to a streamlined, technology-driven system designed to improve efficiency and enhance border security.
The move is part of a broader national effort to modernise Zimbabwe’s airport and immigration procedures, aligning them with international best practices and global trends in travel facilitation.Under the new process, non-resident visitors must fill out an online arrival form prior to embarking on their journey to Zimbabwe. This measure is aimed at reducing congestion at immigration desks, speeding up entry procedures, and improving data accuracy for immigration authorities.
The form can be accessed via the official Zimbabwe immigration website or a designated mobile application. Visitors will be required to provide personal and travel details, including passport information, purpose of visit, duration of stay, and accommodation details. Once submitted, a confirmation slip or QR code will be generated for verification upon arrival.
For travellers who may not have access to the internet before travel, iPads will be made available at immigration desks in all international airports to complete the digital arrival process. However, immigration officials strongly encourage visitors to complete the process ahead of time to minimise delays and ensure smoother entry into the country.
Zimbabwe Introduces New Digital Immigration System for Non-Resident Visitors
The new digital immigration system applies exclusively to non-resident visitors. Zimbabwean residents will continue to follow the existing entry procedures.
Citizens holding e-passports are also encouraged to take advantage of the automated eGate system already in place at major airports. The eGate system allows for quicker processing times through biometric verification, further reducing queues and waiting times for frequent travellers.
By integrating these digital processes, Zimbabwe aims to position itself as a modern travel hub in Southern Africa, making entry more efficient while strengthening its border management capabilities.Officials at the Airports Company of Zimbabwe have stated that the introduction of the digital arrival form is designed to achieve multiple goals:
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Enhancing Border Security – Digital pre-arrival forms allow immigration authorities to screen travellers more effectively before they reach the border, thereby reducing potential risks and improving national security.
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Improving Efficiency – Automating the arrival process helps to minimise queues and processing times, allowing travellers to enter Zimbabwe faster and with greater convenience.
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Modernising Immigration Services – The shift from paper to digital aligns Zimbabwe with international standards and positions the country as a progressive destination for business, tourism, and investment.
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Accurate Data Collection – Digital forms ensure better accuracy in visitor information, enabling authorities to maintain reliable records for policy planning and statistical purposes.
According to ACZ spokesperson, the move is “a necessary step towards aligning Zimbabwe’s airports and immigration processes with global best practices, ensuring a seamless travel experience while enhancing our border control systems.”
Zimbabwe joins a growing list of countries worldwide that have adopted digital immigration processes to improve the travel experience and strengthen security. Many nations, including those in the European Union, North America, and Asia, have introduced similar pre-arrival forms or Electronic Travel Authorisations (ETAs) to expedite border processing while reducing manual paperwork.
For regional travellers, especially within Southern Africa, Zimbabwe’s move is expected to set a benchmark for cross-border travel efficiency. The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has long advocated for streamlined entry procedures to boost tourism and regional trade, and Zimbabwe’s adoption of digital immigration tools reflects progress toward that goal.
Immigration authorities urge all non-resident visitors to take note of the following to avoid delays:
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Complete the Arrival Form Online in Advance – Visitors should access the form via the official immigration portal at least 24 hours before travel.
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Have Confirmation Ready – Keep a printed copy or a digital version of the confirmation slip or QR code for presentation upon arrival.
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Ensure Accuracy of Details – Errors in the form may result in delays or entry complications.
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Use Airport Kiosks if Necessary – For those unable to complete the form prior to travel, iPads will be available at immigration desks, but processing times may be longer.
The rollout of the digital immigration system is part of a larger government strategy to digitise public services, improve operational efficiency, and enhance security. Zimbabwe is also exploring further innovations in airport operations, including biometric verification, automated passport control gates, and integration of immigration systems with travel and health databases.
This transformation positions Zimbabwe as a competitive travel destination in the region, catering to growing demands for convenience and security in international travel.
For both business and leisure travellers, the new digital immigration process offers a modern, streamlined approach to entering Zimbabwe — a change that could well redefine the country’s image as a forward-looking and technologically adaptive nation.
Source- Atta
