How to apply for a passport online in Zambia

If you’re in Zambia and planning to apply for a passport, there are specific steps to follow and documents to prepare. This guide will walk you through the necessary requirements, the application process, and where to find the nearest passport office. Let’s get started.

Online Passport Application Process

Here’s a detailed guide on how to apply for a Zambian passport:

1. Required Documents

Before beginning your passport application, ensure you have the following:

National Registration Card (NRC): A valid Zambian NRC is mandatory.
Birth Certificate or Affidavit of Birth: Proof of citizenship through a birth certificate or a legally affirmed affidavit.
Two Passport-Sized Photos: Must meet the required specifications (size, background color, etc.).
Completed Application Form: Available online or at passport offices.
Proof of Payment: Evidence of payment for the passport processing fees.

2. Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Obtain the Application Form
You can collect the application form from:

The Zambian Department of National Registration, Passport, and Citizenship (NRPC) offices.
The Ministry of Home Affairs website.

Step 2: Fill Out the Application
Carefully complete the form with accurate details, including your personal information, residential address, and contact details.

Step 3: Attach the Required Documents
Ensure all the necessary documents, including your NRC, birth certificate, and photos, are attached to your application form.

Step 4: Submission
Submit your completed application form and documents to the nearest passport office or NRPC. In some areas, you may be able to submit the application online or pre-book an appointment.

You will need to submit your application in person, as biometric data such as fingerprints will be collected.

Step 5: Payment
Pay the passport processing fee, either at the NRPC office or through other designated payment channels such as banks or mobile payments. Keep your receipt as proof of payment.

Step 6: Wait for Processing
Passport processing typically takes about 2 to 4 weeks, depending on demand. You will be notified when your passport is ready for collection.

3. Types of Zambian Passports

Ordinary Passport: Available for general Zambian citizens.
Diplomatic Passport: Issued to government officials or individuals with diplomatic status.
Service Passport: Provided to certain government employees for work-related travel.

4. Passport Fees

The cost of a Zambian passport depends on the type and the number of pages:

32-page passport: Approximately ZMW 300.
48-page passport: Costs slightly more.

5. Renewals and Replacements

If your passport is lost, damaged, or needs renewal, follow a similar procedure. In case of a lost passport, you’ll need an affidavit, and additional fees will apply.

6. Where to Apply: Passport Offices in Zambia

Here’s a list of key passport offices across Zambia under the Department of National Registration, Passport, and Citizenship (NRPC):

Lusaka (Main Office)

Location: Independence Avenue, Lusaka
Services: New applications, renewals, lost passport replacements, and citizenship services.

Ndola Passport Office

Location: Along Kwacha Road, Ndola
Services: Passport applications, renewals, and related services for Copperbelt residents.

Livingstone Passport Office

Location: Mosi-oa-Tunya Road, Livingstone
Services: Passport issuance and renewals for Southern Province residents.

Kitwe Passport Office

Location: Independence Avenue, Kitwe
Services: Passport applications and renewals.

Chipata Passport Office

Location: Umodzi Highway, Chipata
Services: Passport and citizenship services for Eastern Province residents.

Kabwe Passport Office

Location: Kabwe, Central Province
Services: Passport processing and other related services.

Choma Passport Office

Location: Choma, Southern Province
Services: Handles passport applications for residents in the region.

Mansa Passport Office

Location: Mansa, Luapula Province
Services: Passport applications and renewals for residents of Luapula.

Solwezi Passport Office

Location: Solwezi, North-Western Province
Services: Passport applications and related services.

7. Contact and Support Information

You can contact your nearest passport office for details on current processing times, required documents, or to schedule an appointment. Most regional offices operate under similar guidelines and procedures.

Summary

Applying for a Zambian passport requires proper documentation and following the outlined steps. Whether you’re applying for the first time or renewing an existing passport, the process is straightforward, with services available across several offices in Zambia.