Albania C-Type e-Visa Application Guide for Zambia Citizens (2026)

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From the thunderous majesty of Mosi-oa-Tunya (Victoria Falls) to the sun-drenched stone cities of the Balkans, the journey for a citizen of Zambia is a bridge between the heart of Southern Africa and the emerging allure of Southeastern Europe. As Zambia continues its path of growth in 2026, the Republic of Albania has established a digital gateway through its Digital Pre-Clearance system, ensuring that travelers from Lusaka, Ndola, and Livingstone can secure their passage with administrative clarity.

In 2026, entry into Albania is strictly governed by the mandatory e-Visa system for Zambian passport holders. There is no "Visa on Arrival" facility at the border. Whether you are departing from Kenneth Kaunda International (LUN)—typically connecting via Addis Ababa, Nairobi, or Dubai—airlines will strictly verify your travel authorization. Without a printed, approved e-Visa or a qualifying Western exemption, you will be denied boarding at the check-in counter.

This guide is specifically tailored for Zambian applicants, addressing the 2026 economic realities and the specific transit protocols required for long-haul travel.

For a broader understanding of the general application rules, please consult our main Visa Application Guide.

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Is a Visa Mandatory for Zambian Nationals?

Yes.As of 2026, all holders of a standard Zambian passport must obtain an e-Visa prior to travel. Albania does not currently grant automatic visa-free entry to citizens of Zambia.

To verify specific eligibility details and check permitted stay durations for your nationality, please visit the Zambia Citizens e-Tourist Visa page.

The "Used Visa" Exemption (US/UK/Schengen)

You may be EXEMPT from the Albanian e-Visa application if you hold a valid, multiple-entry visa from certain jurisdictions. You do not need to apply for this e-Visa if:

• You possess a valid, multiple-entry Schengen Visa.

• You possess a valid, multiple-entry US Visa (B1/B2).

• You possess a valid, multiple-entry UK Visa.

The "Previous Use" Rule: To qualify for this exemption, the Western visa must have been previously used at least once to enter the issuing country. If you have a brand new, unused US visa, you must apply for the Albanian e-Visa. See more: Albania e-Visa Exemptions Guide.

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Application Fees (2026)

Zambian applicants must choose the correct visa category based on their specific purpose of travel. The standard fees for 2026 are:

• e-Tourist Visa (60€): For vacations, sightseeing, or visiting friends and family.

• e-Business Visa (100€): For meetings, conferences, or trade discussions.

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Zambia-Specific Documentation Checklist

Zambian applicants benefit from English being the official language, which streamlines the vetting process and eliminates the need for notarized translations for most documents.

✅ Passport ValidityYour passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date. Ensure it is the biometric Zambian passport.

✅ Financial Proof (ZMW & Bank Statements)

• The Requirement: Submit an official Bank Statement for the last 6 months.

• Accepted Banks: Statements from ZANACO, Stanbic Bank Zambia, Absa Zambia, or Standard Chartered are standard.

• Format: The statement must be officially stamped. While your balance is in Kwacha (ZMW), ensure your closing balance is sufficient to cover approximately €50 per day of stay.

✅ Employment & Ties (Return Intent)

• Employees: A letter from your employer on company letterhead confirming your position, salary, and authorized leave. Including your NAPSA statement is excellent proof of stable ties.

• Business Owners: A copy of your PACRA certificate and your TPIN (Taxpayer Identification Number).

✅ Travel InsuranceA mandatory policy covering medical repatriation (min. €30,000). Ensure the policy explicitly covers "Europe" or "Worldwide."

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Step-by-Step Application Workflow

The process is 100% online through our application platform.

Step 1: Digital Application

Visit our secure portal to start your journey: Apply for Albania e-Visa.

Step 2: Form Accuracy

Select the specific category (e-Tourist or e-Business). Enter your name exactly as it appears in the bio-page of your Zambian passport.

Step 3: Document Uploads

Upload high-quality PDF scans. Your passport photo must be 47 mm x 36 mm with a plain white background.

Step 4: Payment

The government fees for 2026 are:

• Tourist Visa: €60

• Business Visa: €100

• Cards: International Visa or Mastercards from ZANACO, Stanbic, or Absa work reliably.

• Currency: The charge is in Euros; your bank handles the conversion.

• Troubleshooting: Albania e-Visa Payment Issues.

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Processing Expectations

• Standard Timeline: 9-15 Business Days.

• Express Timeline: 24 Business Hours. ( 3 Business Day )

• Zambia Specifics: Processing typically takes 15 to 25 business days due to the distance and vetting procedures.

• Recommendation: Apply at least 8 weeks before your intended flight.

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Transit & Border Protocols

Choosing the right connection at Kenneth Kaunda International is key to avoid transit issues.

Required Border Documents:

1. Printed Approval: Carry your approved digital visa at all times.

2. Return Ticket: Confirmed flight out of Albania back to Zambia.

3. Accommodation: Valid hotel booking.

Critical Transit Warning:

• Via Addis Ababa (Ethiopian Airlines): THE BEST ROUTE. Transit via Addis is usually visa-free for Zambians.

• Via Istanbul (Turkish Airlines): Highly recommended. Airside transit is seamless and efficient.

• Via Europe: AVOID transiting through Schengen airports (like Frankfurt or Zurich) unless you hold a valid Schengen Transit Visa.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I pay the fee using an MTN MoMo virtual card?

Yes, as long as the virtual card has a 16-digit number, expiry date, and CVV, and is topped up with enough Kwacha for the Euro conversion.

Do I need to visit an embassy in Lusaka?

No. The entire process is conducted through our online platform, and your approved e-Visa is sent to your email.

What if my visa is refused?

The fee is non-refundable. Refusals for Zambian applicants are often due to "Incomplete financial history" or "Unclear travel purpose."

• See more: Albania e-Visa Refusal Reasons.