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

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From the majestic thunder of Mosi-oa-Tunya (Victoria Falls) and the balancing rocks of Epworth to the sun-drenched, historic landscapes of the Balkans, the journey for a citizen of Zimbabwe is a bridge between the vibrant heritage of Southern Africa and the emerging allure of Southeastern Europe. As Zimbabwe continues to strengthen its global connections in 2026, the Republic of Albania has established a digital gateway through its Digital Pre-Clearance system, ensuring that travelers from Harare, Bulawayo, and Mutare can secure their passage with administrative clarity.

In 2026, entry into Albania is strictly governed by the mandatory e-Visa system for Zimbabwean passport holders. There is no "Visa on Arrival" facility at the border. Whether you are departing from Robert Gabriel Mugabe International (HRE)—typically connecting via Addis Ababa, Johannesburg, 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 Zimbabwean applicants, addressing the 2026 financial realities and the specific transit protocols for travelers departing from the heart of Southern Africa.

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

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Is a Visa Mandatory for Zimbabwean Nationals?

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

To verify specific eligibility details and check permitted stay durations for your nationality, please visit the Zimbabwe 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)

Zimbabwean applicants must select the specific category that matches their travel intent. 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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Zimbabwe-Specific Documentation Checklist

Zimbabwean 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 Zimbabwean passport.

✅ Financial Proof (ZiG & Hard Currency)

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

• Accepted Banks: Statements from CBZ Bank, CABS, Stanbic Bank Zimbabwe, Nedbank Zimbabwe, or FBC Bank are standard.

• Format: The statement must be officially stamped. While your balance may reflect Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) or USD, ensure your closing balance is sufficient to cover approximately €50 per day of stay.

✅ Language Advantage (No Translation Needed)Since English is the official language of Zimbabwe, you have a major advantage:

• Official Documents: Your Birth Certificate, Marriage Certificate, and Police Clearance (issued by the CID) are already in English.

• Direct Upload: You can scan and upload these documents directly to our portal without the need for notarized translations.

✅ Employment & Ties (Return Intent)

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

• Business Owners: A copy of your ZIMRA tax clearance and business registration documents.

✅ 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 Zimbabwean 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 fee (60€ or 100€) must be paid during the digital submission.

• Cards: International Visa or Mastercards from Stanbic, Nedbank, or CBZ work reliably.

• Ecocash Virtual Cards: Many applicants use virtual cards linked to USD wallets for international web payments.

• 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 )

• Zimbabwe Specifics: Processing times typically range from 15 to 25 business days due to rigorous vetting.

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

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Transit & Border Protocols

Choosing the right connection at R.G. Mugabe 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 Zimbabwe.

3. Accommodation: Valid hotel booking.

Critical Transit Warning:

• Via Johannesburg (Airlink/SAA): Zimbabwean citizens generally do not need a transit visa for airside transit in South Africa, provided the flight is on a single booking.

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

• 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 a local ZiG bank card?

Generally, no. You must use a card enabled for international transactions (usually a USD-linked Visa or Mastercard).

Do I need to visit an embassy in Harare?

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. Common reasons for Zimbabwean applicants include "Insufficient financial history" or "Unconfirmed hotel bookings."

• See more: Albania e-Visa Refusal Reasons.