Guide to Residency in Zimbabwe

Obtaining a residency visa in Zimbabwe is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Zimbabwe gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

Please note that the following instructions are a general guide and the actual process may vary. It is important to consult with the Department of Immigration Zimbabwe or a legal expert for the most current and detailed information. Here is a general outline of the steps you might take to obtain residency status in Zimbabwe: ```html

• Research the types of residence permits available
  • Visit the official website of the Zimbabwe Department of Immigration to understand different types of residence permits: Zimbabwe Department of Immigration.
  • Choose between Temporary Employment Permit, Residence Permit, Student Permit, or Retired Persons’ Residence Permit, depending on your situation.
• Prepare the necessary documentation
  • Gather personal documents such as a valid passport, birth certificate, and marriage certificate (if applicable).
  • Obtain police clearance from your country of origin and from Zimbabwean police if you have been in Zimbabwe for more than six months.
  • Get a medical clearance certificate to prove you are in good health.
• Apply for a residence permit
  • Complete the residence permit application form, which can be obtained from the Zimbabwe Department of Immigration office or downloaded from their website.
  • Submit the application form along with all required documents and the prescribed fee to the nearest Department of Immigration office in Zimbabwe.
  • Wait for the application to be processed, which may take several months.
• Apply for a Tax Number
  • Visit the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) website for information on obtaining a tax number: Zimbabwe Revenue Authority.
  • Complete the tax registration form ITF 12B, which can be downloaded from the ZIMRA website or obtained from their offices.
  • Submit the completed form along with any required documentation to the nearest ZIMRA office.
• Open a local bank account
  • Choose a bank in Zimbabwe and inquire about the requirements for opening an account as a foreign resident.
  • Provide necessary documents such as your passport, residence permit, and proof of address in Zimbabwe.
  • Complete the bank's application process and deposit the required initial amount to activate your account.
• Comply with ongoing residency requirements
  • Ensure that you renew your residence permit before it expires, following the same process as the initial application.
  • Keep your tax number and bank account in good standing by fulfilling all tax obligations and maintaining the minimum required balance.
  • Stay informed about any changes in immigration laws that may affect your residency status.

``` Always make sure to verify the current requirements and procedures with the relevant authorities, as immigration policies can change. It is also advisable to seek assistance from a legal professional who specializes in immigration law in Zimbabwe.

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Zimbabwe?

"In order to visit Zimbabwe, travelers must obtain a visa prior to arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs, and a fee. Depending on the type of visa, additional documents may be required. In order to obtain residency in Zimbabwe, applicants must submit an application form, a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs, a police clearance certificate, a medical certificate, and a fee. The application must also include proof of employment, proof of financial means, and a letter of recommendation from a local sponsor. Once the application is approved, the applicant will be issued a residence permit," commented one member living in Zimbabwe.