eVisa on Arrival

Learn about Malawi's eVisa on Arrival option - an alternative to eVisa for eligible travellers arriving at designated entry points.

Start Malawi eVisa Application
Important Notice

While obtaining an eVisa on arrival is available, obtaining an eVisa in advance is recommended to avoid delays and ensure a smooth entry into Malawi.

What is a Malawi on-arrival eVisa?

  • Malawi's on-arrival eVisa is a visa that travellers obtain upon arrival at Malawi's airports or border crossings. 
  • There is no need to apply online or visit an embassy before traveling in advance.
  • Travellers must present the required documents, pay the visa fee, and complete formalities at immigration.
  • The visa is then issued on the spot by the authorities.

Eligible Entry Points

On-arrival eVisa services are available at the following designated entry points:

Land Borders

  • • Mwanza Border (Mozambique)
  • • Dedza Border (Mozambique)
  • • Chiponde Border (Mozambique)
  • • Mchinji Border (Zambia)
  • • Karonga Border (Tanzania)

Airports

  • • Lilongwe International Airport (Kamuzu)
  • • Blantyre Airport (Chileka)

Note: Entry points are subject to change. Travellers are advised to verify the latest information with relevant authorities before travel.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for an eVisa on arrival, travellers must meet the following criteria:

Passport and Photograph Requirements

  • A valid passport with at least 6 months’ validity from the date of arrival
  • At least 2 blank pages for entry and exit stamps
  • Recent Passport-size photograph 
  • A passport issued by a country eligible for the Malawi eVisa.

Traveller Requirements

  • Proof of sufficient funds to cover the stay (if requested)
  • A return or onwards travel ticket
  • No history of immigration violations or inadmissibility

eVisa Types Available on Arrival

The following eVisa types are available on arrival:

Tourist eVisa

For leisure travel, sightseeing, and visiting friends/family

30 days

Business eVisa

For business meetings, conferences, and commercial activities

30 days

Transit eVisa

For travellers passing through Malawi to another destination

7 days

Processing Time and Fees

Visa on Arrival processing typically takes 30-60 minutes, depending on the number of arrivals and complexity of applications. During peak travel periods, processing may take longer.

Processing Times

  • Normal periods: 30-45 minutes
  • Peak periods: 60-90 minutes
  • Complex cases: Up to 2 hours

eVisa fees must be paid in US Dollars cash. Credit cards and other currencies are generally not accepted at border posts.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages

  • • No advance planning required
  • • Suitable for last-minute travel
  • • Available at major entry points
  • • Same-day processing

Disadvantages

  • • Longer processing at border
  • • Risk of refusal without recourse
  • • Limited entry points
  • • Cash payment required

Why Choose eVisa Instead?

While Visa on Arrival is available, the eVisa system offers significant advantages:

  • Faster entry: Pre-approved evisa means quicker immigration processing
  • Guaranteed approval: Know your evisa status before travel
  • Multiple payment options: Credit cards, bank transfers accepted
  • 24/7 application: Apply anytime from anywhere
  • Document upload: Submit documents electronically
  • Status tracking: Monitor application progress online

Disclaimer: Although this information was last updated in July 2026, we recommend verifying with the appropriate agencies, embassies, and airlines to ensure complete accuracy regarding your travel plans.

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