Foreign travel advice

Malawi

Entry requirements

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Malawi set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Malawi High Commission in the UK.

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Malawi.

Passport validity requirements

Your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the day you arrive in Malawi.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

If you are travelling to Malawi for a visit of 30 days or less on a British passport you do not need a visa.  

If you wish to live, work or study in Malawi, visit the Malawi Immigration website for further information.

Travelling with children from South Africa

If you’re travelling with children aged 17 and under and passing through South Africa, see what documents you need in South Africa travel advice.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Malawi guide.

Depending on your circumstances, these may include:

  • a yellow fever vaccination certificate
  • a polio vaccination certificate

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Malawi. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.