Companies operating in Zambia often need specialist skills from outside the country. A foreign national who will be employed in Zambia must hold an employment permit issued by the Department of Immigration under the Immigration and Deportation Act No. 18 of 2010. Employing someone without the correct permit exposes both the employer and the employee to penalties.
How to apply
Applications are made through the Department of Immigration’s online services. The applicant first obtains the appropriate entry visa electronically, then applies for the employment permit through the separate employment permit e-service. The employer supports the application with a covering letter to the Director-General of Immigration.
Documents to prepare
The Department of Immigration’s published requirements include:
- a certified copy of the applicant’s valid passport, with copies of previous passports;
- certified copies of academic and professional qualifications;
- the employer’s covering letter describing the work the applicant will do;
- the applicant’s CV and the letter of offer or contract of employment;
- a certified copy of the employer’s certificate of incorporation;
- the employer’s succession plan, or a written explanation where one does not apply;
- a police clearance from the applicant’s country of residence; and
- a passport-size photograph.
Depending on the case, the Department may also ask for the company’s share capital certificate and list of directors, the applicant’s marriage and birth certificates, and professional practising certificates.
The succession plan
Zambia’s policy is that foreign skills should be transferred to Zambian staff over time. The succession plan identifies the Zambian employee or employees who will be trained to take over the role, and over what period. A credible plan, specific to the role, strengthens the application. A generic or missing plan is a frequent reason for queries.
Common reasons for delay
- Documents that are not certified, or certified copies that are out of date.
- Qualifications that do not match the role described in the employer’s letter.
- A contract or offer letter that is unsigned or inconsistent with the application.
- A missing or vague succession plan.
- Applying too late, so the employee cannot start on the planned date.
Plan ahead
Start preparing documents as soon as the appointment is agreed, and keep track of permit expiry dates for existing staff so renewals are filed in good time. The employee should not start work until the permit has been issued.
Claire & Partners procures business, employment and residence permits for employers, their staff and individuals. See our immigration services.
This article is general information about Zambian law as at November 2026. It is not legal advice. For advice on your circumstances, book a consultation.
