On Vacation In Malawi: Do You Need A Visa To Visit?

Known as “The Warm Heart of Africa,” Malawi is more than happy to meet you and make you welcome. However, travelers from the US and Europe will likely need a visa to enter the country. Despite this, the application process is easy and affordable. Read on to find out what you need to know to visit this beautiful, land-locked African nation.

Visiting Malawi

Malawi may be a landlocked nation, but you wouldn’t know it when you visit Lake Malawi. The lake is almost like an inland sea, surrounded by gorgeous beaches. However, the country has that and more to offer international travelers, including safari locations, beautiful scenery and more.

It should be noted that most international travelers will need a visa to travel to Malawi. Basically, the rules state that if your home country requires visas for visiting Malawians, you will need one in return.

Among the countries on the list are most EU nations, as well as the US and the UK. However, applying for a visa is relatively painless and affordable. Read on to find out how to get a visa to visit this warm African nation.

How to get a visa for Malawi

If you are planning a visit to Malawi, you should apply for an e-visa in advance of the trip. It is essential to have a valid visa before traveling as it isn’t always possible to get one on Malawi’s land borders.

A multiple-entry visa for Malawi is valid for six months. However, you should check the permit element of the visa, which states how long you can stay for a single visit. Meanwhile, the visa costs US$50 for a 7-day transit period (for anyone traveling through the country within a week) and a single entry. Multiple entry visas for a period of six months cost US$150, while a multiple entry visa for 12 months costs US$250.

The permit is for 30 days, while there is the possibility of extending for two more stays of 30 days. The cost of the extension is around MK10,000 (US$12.25) for each extension and can be obtained at local immigration offices. However, should you decide to extend your stay, make sure you apply before the initial permit expires.

The visa allows you to visit Malawi on vacation, visit family, do volunteer work, or even make a short work visit. However, for those planning to work for an NGO in Malawi, your organization will have to apply on your behalf for a two-year employment permit.

Other requirements to enter Malawi

Your passport must be valid for six months from your arrival date and you might need to show a yellow fever vaccination certificate on arrival. You can get the certificate from your doctor and pack it for the journey, just in case.

What does Malawi offer to visitors?

Besides its legendary friendliness, Malawi has a remarkable geographical diversity. Lake Malawi cuts through the landscape in a trough formed by the Great Rift Valley and is the third-largest lake in Africa. With its crystal clear water, filled with colorful tropical fish, this lake is an amazing place for swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking or just relaxing on the beach. In fact, Lake Malawi is a must-visit destination on a trip to the country.

Heading to the south of the country, the landscape is filled with dramatic peaks, including Mt. Mulanje and Zomba Plateau. Both are wonderful for hiking through the forests, viewing the exotic wildlife along the way.

Heading north, the Nyika Plateau features rolling grasslands with wildlife galore.

While Malawi isn’t famous as a safari destination, the Majete Wildlife Reserve in the country has run a lion reintroduction program. The result makes the country a great place for viewing wildlife on safari.

Read more about this wonderful African location here.