The Homeland Security Minister, Ken Zikhałe, issued a gazette notice on Wednesday amending immigration regulations, effectively removing visa barriers for citizens from 79 countries.
These include the UK, China, Russia, Germany, Australia, Canada, Belgium, Ghana, The Gambia, Sierra Leone, France, among others.
Citizens from the Southern African Development Community (Sadc) and the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (Comesa) are also exempt from visa requirements, with the exception of countries imposing visa requirements on Malawian citizens.
The amendments also provide exemptions for certain groups like diplomats and government officials, as well as countries with mutual exchange agreements for multiple-entry visas with Malawi.
Under the new regulations, multiple entry visas in Malawi can now be valid for up to 12 months.
Tourism Minister Vera Kamtukule expressed, “This monumental decision isn’t just about visas; it’s about unleashing the untapped potential of our beloved Malawi and inviting the world to experience its wonders first-hand,” to local media.
The British embassy in Malawi encouraged its nationals to capitalize on the relaxed visa restrictions to explore a variety of popular tourist destinations in the southern African nation.
Malawi’s move aligns with Kenya and Rwanda, which have also opened their doors to African travelers, aiming to promote regional tourism and trade.
Source-BBC
