Malawi Announces Visa Waiver for Over 70 Countries: Is Nigeria Included?

In a bid to boost tourism, Malawi has waived off visa fees for over 70 nations in the world under the leadership of President Lazarus Chakwera. By eliminating entry visa fees for travellers from more than 75 countries, including major players like the United States, Malawi aims to strengthen its position in global tourism.

This move, deeply rooted in extensive amendments to Malawi’s immigration laws, allows tourists and business visitors from these countries to enter visa-free for up to 90 days. It represents a pivotal moment for the tourism sector, promising to open up Malawi to a wider global audience seeking new destinations for exploration and investment.

President Chakwera’s vision extends beyond mere facilitation of travel; it’s a strategic initiative aimed at unlocking Malawi’s untapped potential. During the announcement, he emphasized Malawi’s natural beauty and cultural richness, signalling a shift towards a more open-door policy to foster international goodwill and economic diversification.

Echoing this sentiment, Malawi’s Minister of Tourism, Vera Kamtukule, emphasized the invitation extended to the world to experience Malawian hospitality and the country’s stunning landscapes.

Here is an updated list of nations as of March 27, 2024:

1. Antigua & Barbuda
2. Australia
3. Barbados
4. Belgium
5. Belize
6. Brunei
7. Canada
8. China
9. Cyprus
10. Dominica
11. Fiji
12. Finland
13. France
14. Gambia
15. Germany
16. Ghana
17. Grenada
18. Guyana
19. Ireland
20. Israel
21. Italy
22. Jamaica
23. Kiribati
24. Malaysia
25. Maldives
26. Malta
27. Nauru
28. Netherlands
29. New Guinea
30. New Zealand
31. Norway
32. Papua New Guinea
33. Poland
34. Portugal
35. Russia
36. Saint Kitts and Nevis
37. Saint Lucia
38. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
39. Sierra Leone
40. Singapore
41. Solomon Islands
42. Sri Lanka
43. Sweden
44. Trinidad & Tobago
45. Tuvalu
46. United Kingdom
47. United States

The decision to grant visa waivers to nationals from these 47 key nations, including strategic partners and members of regional blocs like SADC and Comesa, underscores Malawi’s commitment to strengthening diplomatic and economic ties globally. Citizens from countries such as the United Kingdom, China, Russia, and Canada can now engage with Malawi more freely.