One Visa, Five Countries: Southern Africa Unveils New Univisa for Tourists

Travelling across stunning landscapes and diverse cultures in Southern Africa is about to become a whole lot easier. Five countries in the region – Angola, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe – have agreed to expand their existing “Univisa” program.

This visa, currently used by Zambia and Zimbabwe, has limited access to Botswana and allows tourists to travel seamlessly between these destinations with a single visa application.

What is a Univisa?

A Univisa is a special tourist visa that grants access to multiple countries within a specific region. In this case, the Univisa will allow travellers to visit Angola, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe with a single application, eliminating the need to apply for separate visas for each country.

Also Read: South Africa Plans to Introduce E-Visa and 90-Day Visa Waiver for Indians

Multi-Country Visa for Seamless Travel

During a recent KAZA heads of state summit in Livingstone, Zambia, regional leaders announced their commitment to extend the univisa to additional member states and the broader Southern African economic bloc. The univisa simplifies travel by allowing tourists to visit multiple countries with a single visa, thereby boosting regional tourism.

“We must simply say that this will happen,” declared Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema in his summit address. “I am grateful that my colleagues have reached a consensus on the univisa.”

Botswana’s Vice President, Slumber Tsogwane, also confirmed his nation’s full adoption of the univisa, indicating strong regional support for the initiative.

Also Read: South Africa Revises Work Visa System to Streamline Process, and Attract Foreign Workers

Benefits for Tourists

This expansion is a game-changer for tourists planning multi-country itineraries in Southern Africa. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Simplified Travel: No more juggling multiple visa applications! The univisa streamlines the process, saving you time and hassle.

2. Greater Flexibility: Explore the region at your own pace, easily hopping between countries to experience their unique offerings.

3. Boosted Tourism: This initiative aims to attract more visitors by making Southern Africa a more accessible and interconnected travel destination.

Current Status and Future Developments

While the official launch date is yet to be announced, regional leaders are committed to implementing the expanded univisa program.

This will not only include the five KAZA (Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area) member countries but could potentially encompass the entire Southern African economic bloc in the future.

Planning Your Southern African Adventure

While details regarding the official rollout and application process are still under development, this news is exciting for travellers looking to explore the wonders of Southern Africa.

Stay tuned for further updates, and start dreaming about your multi-country adventure – from the majestic Victoria Falls to the vast Kalahari Desert, Southern Africa awaits!