Living in Zambia
Information for British nationals living in Zambia.
Disclaimer
Note that this information is provided as a guide only and may be subject to change at any time with little or no notice. Definitive information should be obtained from the Zambian authorities. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office will not be liable for any inaccuracies in this information.
Introduction
This guide sets out essential information for British nationals residing in Zambia including advice on health, education, benefits, residence requirements and more. We are unable to provide any guidance on general lifestyle enquiries apart from the information and links listed below. This information supplements the travel advice for Zambia.
Health
Visitors to Zambia are advised to apply for travel/medical insurance ahead of their arrival. See list of medical facilities in Zambia. Public hospitals are understaffed and of a relatively poor standard providing basic healthcare.
Education
Generally all foreign students attend private schools and colleges. The Government of Zambia provides free primary school education; parents pay for the school uniforms and books. Basic fees are charged for secondary school education.
Employment
Check the Zambia immigration website for the requirements for a work permit.
Entry and residence requirements
All British nationals require a visa to enter Zambia on a valid British passport.
Visas are available at all ports of entry. Visit the Zambia Immigration website for information on entry and residence requirements.
Benefits
See benefits if you are abroad and State Pension if you retire abroad.
Driving licences and vehicles
See Road Transport & Safety Agency website for laws in Zambia. Our travel advice also has information of local and road travel.
See .
Finance
Zambia has a number of international, regional and private banks.
There are ATMs available at shopping centres and various other points. International/ local credit and debit cards are acceptable at many restaurants and shops especially in the capital Lusaka and the main tourist centres, and are slowly and steadily now being used as the main form of payment.
Guidance on bringing medication into Zambia
Some over the counter drugs available in the UK are not legal in Zambia. Check ingredients carefully and contact the Zambia Medicines Regulatory Authority for further advice if you are in any doubt. Customs officers may ask to see prescriptions for any medication you bring into the country.
Drug taking and smuggling are offences
Punishments can be severe and prison conditions are extremely poor. Check the Zambia Drug Enforcement Commission website for details of banned substances. The possession or use of narcotics, including soft drugs like marijuana, is prohibited.
Prisoner information
Find more information on Zambian legal and prison systems for British prisoners, their family and friends.
Social ethics and traditions
See Zambia travel advice for information on local laws and customs.
Sponsoring family members
Approach the Zambia Immigration Authorities direct for sponsoring family members to visit and/or live in Zambia.
Returning to the UK
To move your pension to the UK, contact the International Pension Centre.
See also:
Updates to this page
Last updated 8 April 2022 + show all updates
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Updated information on how to get letter confirming UK driving licence in Zambia.
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Coronavirus section added with a link to guidance on vaccines.
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Updating all the links and wording of paragraphs.
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First published.