Official Global Travel Advisories
- Avoid non-essential travel outside Canada until further notice
- Avoid all cruise ship travel outside Canada until further notice
Mandatory COVID-19 testing
To be allowed to board a flight to Canada, all air passengers 5 years of age or older, including Canadians, are required to show a negative COVID-19 molecular test result taken within 72 hours of their scheduled time of departure to Canada. If the traveller has a connecting flight to Canada, the pre-departure test must be conducted within 72 hours of the last direct flight to Canada. This means they may need to schedule a COVID-19 test at their transit city within 72 hours of their direct flight to Canada.
All travellers 5 years of age or older, including Canadians, arriving to Canada by land are required to show a negative COVID-19 molecular test result taken in the United States within 72 hours prior to crossing the border into Canada.
Alternatively, travellers can present a positive COVID-19 molecular test taken between 14 and 90 days prior to departure.
More information on measures in place to enter Canada – Government of Canada
Zimbabwe Register Travel insurance Destinations
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Latest updates: The Health tab was updated - travel health notices (Public Health Agency of Canada).
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Risk level(s)
Risk level(s)
COVID-19 – Global travel advisory
Effective date: March 13, 2020
Avoid non-essential travel outside Canada until further notice.
This advisory overrides other risk levels on this page, with the exception of any risk levels for countries or regions where we advise to avoid all travel.
Zimbabwe - Exercise a high degree of caution
Exercise a high degree of caution in Zimbabwe due to crime.
Safety and security
Safety and security
COVID-19 - Preventative measures and restrictions
Preventative measures and restrictions are in place, including a nationwide curfew from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m.
During daytime, you must stay inside your home or accommodations unless you need to perform essential activities. Travel between cities or regions is restricted.
You must wear a face covering in public.
If you violate these restrictions, you could be fined or detained for endangering public health.
- Follow the instructions of local authorities, including those related to physical distancing
- Avoid crowded areas
Demonstrations and civil unrest
Demonstrations and civil unrest may occur. They usually take place in the Central Business District and high density suburbs of major cities such as Harare and Bulawayo. They have led to violence in the past.
Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.
- Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
- Don’t attempt to cross roadblocks, even if they appear unattended
- Follow the instructions of local authorities
- Always carry photo identification such as your passport with you
- Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations
More about mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Border with Mozambique
Do not stray from the main roads near the Zimbabwe–Mozambique border, as the risk of crime and theft is high.
Marange mining area
Access to the Marange diamond mining fields in Chiadzwa is restricted by armed forces. Don’t attempt to enter the area.
Crime
Crime is common and includes:
- muggings
- house robberies
- passport theft
- carjacking
- pickpocketing and bag snatching
Criminals target both foreigners and residents.
Highway robberies are common, particularly at night.
Be particularly cautious when leaving banks and ATMs, on the road to and from the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport and when travelling through the Beitbridge area.
Be vigilant at all times, avoid travelling alone at all times and avoid walking after dark:
- in the larger cities such as Harare and Bulawayo
- at tourist sites such as Victoria Falls and Honde Valley waterfalls (including Mterazi Falls and Pungwe Falls) popular safari camps in the Hwange and Mana Pools national parks
Ensure that your personal belongings are secure at all times, particularly in crowded places. Keep your passport in a secure location and carry a photocopy.
Road safety
Most roads do not have street lights so driving after dark is not advised.
Traffic lights frequently do not work, and drivers do not treat non-functioning lights as four-way stops. Pay close attention before proceeding through an intersection.
Potholes are common and cause many road accidents. Poorly serviced vehicles and dangerous driving habits also contribute to accidents.
Drivers sometimes do not have functioning lights on their cars, which makes driving at night even more dangerous.
Pedestrians often walk on the roads, even at night. Domestic and wild animals roam major roads, also posing a risk.
If you suspect that your vehicle is being followed by an unknown driver, drive to the nearest police station. Do not leave personal belongings or travel documents unattended in vehicles.
Drive with your doors locked and windows up at all times, and park in a guarded parking lot overnight.
If you intend to drive through Mozambique to reach the ocean, read our Mozambique Travel Advice.
Roadblocks
Security forces can erect roadblocks anywhere without notice.
Drive carefully and always cooperate if you are stopped.
You could be subject to arbitrary detention or arrest if you don’t have copies of your travel documents (passport identification page and visa) and vehicle police clearance certificate with you at all times.
Security forces can search you and your vehicle any time, as well as any person travelling with you. Security forces can seize any items they deem suspicious during a search. Police officers may ask you to accompany them to the police station or to pay a fine on the spot.
On-the-spot fines are illegal in Zimbabwe and you should ask for a ticket to be issued. You can then pay the ticket at the nearest police station.
Public transportation
Avoid using intercity bus and rail services, as they are dangerous.
Buses are overcrowded and inadequately maintained, and the drivers are often reckless.
The rail system is underdeveloped and poorly maintained, resulting in numerous accidents.
Major hotels usually have their own taxis, which are safe for intra-city travel. Taxis recommended by hotels are normally reliable and in good condition. Taxi service is only available in major cities and taxis will normally not take you more than 20 km outside the city limits.
Air travel
We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.
General information about foreign domestic airlines
Safaris and organized tours
Wildlife viewing poses risks, particularly on foot or at close range.
- Always maintain a safe distance when observing wildlife
- Only exit a vehicle when a professional guide or warden says it is safe to do so
- Only use reputable and professional guides or tour operators
- Closely follow park regulations and wardens’ advice
Fraud
There have been fraud attempts through emails originating from Zimbabwe. Carefully scrutinize any unsolicited business proposal.
General safety situation
Many regions experience long and frequent interruptions to the electrical and water supplies.
Local police are often unable to travel to the site of a reported crime. When reporting a crime, the police are likely to ask you to travel to a local police station to file a report, or that you make arrangements to transport police officers to your location.
Shortages
Power outages are common in Zimbabwe. They may be scheduled by local authorities or occur without notice.
Harare is currently experiencing municipal water supply shortages.
Food and fuel shortages also occur. Keep supplies of food, water and fuel on hand in case of lengthy disruptions.
Telecommunications networks disruptions occur.
Entry/exit requirements
Entry/exit requirements
COVID-19 - Entry, exit and transit restrictions and requirements
In an attempt to limit the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), most governments have implemented special entry and exit restrictions and requirements for their territory.
Before travelling, verify if the local authorities of both your current location and destinations have implemented any specific restrictions or requirements related to this situation. Consider even your transit points, as many destinations have implemented strict transit rules which could disrupt your travel.
These could include:
- entry bans, particularly for non-residents
- exit bans
- quarantines of 14 days or more upon arrival, some in designated facilities, at your own cost
- proof of a negative COVID-19 test result
- health screenings and certificates as well as proof of adequate travel health insurance
- travel authorization documents to be obtained before you travel
- border closures
- airport closures
- flight suspensions to/from certain destinations, and in some cases, all destinations
- suspensions or reductions of other international transportation options
Additional restrictions can be imposed suddenly. Airlines can also suspend or reduce flights without notice. Your travel plans may be severely disrupted, making it difficult for you to return home. You should not depend on the Government of Canada for assistance related to changes to your travel plans.
- Monitor the media for the latest information
- Contact your airline or tour operator to determine if the situation will disrupt your travel plans
- Contact the nearest foreign diplomatic office for information on destination-specific restrictions
Foreign Representatives in Canada – Global Affairs Canada
Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.
We have obtained the information on this page from the Zimbabwean authorities. It can, however, change at any time.
Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.
Passport
Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.
Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.
Regular Canadian passport
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Zimbabwe.
Passport for official travel
Different entry rules may apply.
Other travel documents
Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest diplomatic mission for your destination.
Useful links
Visas
Canadians must be in possession of a visa.
Tourist visa: Required
Business visa: Required
Student visa: Required
Work permit: Required
Residential visa: Required
You can obtain a single-entry visa, valid for 30 days, at a port of entry into Zimbabwe or at a Zimbabwean embassy. You can apply for 2 consecutive 30-day extensions (90 days) at any Zimbabwean Department of Immigration office.
Zimbabwe Department of Immigration
Business visas
Travellers on a Zimbabwe business visa or work permit cannot extend the visa from within Zimbabwe. You will need to exit the country and re-enter as a visitor, or apply for a new business visa or work permit and wait for its delivery before attempting to re-enter.
Working or living in Zimbabwe
If you plan on working or living in Zimbabwe, you must contact the Embassy of Zimbabwe in Ottawa before arriving, as it is very difficult to arrange a work permit or residential visa after arriving in Zimbabwe. Volunteering and missionary activities are considered work and Canadian citizens require a business visa is required to engage in these activities.
Foreign diplomatic missions and consulates in Canada
Journalists
Foreign media organizations must obtain prior accreditation for their journalists visiting or working in Zimbabwe. Journalists attempting to enter the country without proper advance accreditation may be denied admission or deported. Journalists working in Zimbabwe without accreditation risk arrest and prosecution.
If you are seeking registration to enter Zimbabwe as a journalist, contact the nearest Zimbabwean diplomatic office well ahead of your planned departure.
Foreign diplomatic missions and consulates in Canada
Health screening
Due to the ongoing outbreak of Ebola virus disease in neighbouring countries you may be subject to a quick thermal scanner screening or a health questionnaire at the airports upon boarding or disembarking a plane.
Children and travel
Learn about travel with children.
Yellow fever
Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).
Health
Health
- Pandemic COVID-19 all countries: avoid non-essential travel outside Canada - April 22, 2021
- Global Measles Notice - July 23, 2019
Vaccines
Routine Vaccines
Be sure that your routine vaccines, as per your province or territory, are up-to-date regardless of your travel destination.
Some of these vaccines include: measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.
Vaccines to Consider
You may be at risk for these vaccine-preventable diseases while travelling in this country. Talk to your travel health professional about which ones are right for you.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is a disease of the liver spread through contaminated food and water or contact with an infected person. All those travelling to regions with a risk of hepatitis A infection should get vaccinated.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a disease of the liver spread through blood or other bodily fluids. Travellers who may be exposed (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) should get vaccinated.
Influenza
Seasonal influenza occurs worldwide. The flu season usually runs from November to April in the northern hemisphere, between April and October in the southern hemisphere and year round in the tropics. Influenza (flu) is caused by a virus spread from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Get the flu shot.
Measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.
Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.
Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.
Rabies
Rabies is a deadly illness spread to humans through a bite, scratch or lick from an infected animal. Vaccination should be considered for travellers going to areas where rabies exists and who have a high risk of exposure (e.g., are children, have an occupational risk, or in close contact with animals, including free roaming dogs in communities).
Yellow Fever - Country Entry Requirements
Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.
Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.
Risk
- There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.
Country Entry Requirement*
- Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from or have transited through an airport of a country where yellow fever occurs.
Recommendation
- Vaccination is not recommended.
- Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
- There is currently a shortage of the yellow fever vaccine in Canada. It is important for travellers to contact a designated Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre well in advance of their trip to ensure that the vaccine is available.
About Yellow Fever
Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada
* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.
Food/Water
Food and Water-borne Diseases
Travellers to any destination in the world can develop travellers' diarrhea from consuming contaminated water or food.
In some areas in Southern Africa, food and water can also carry diseases like cholera, hepatitis A, schistosomiasis and typhoid. Practise safe food and water precautions while travelling in Southern Africa. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
Cholera
Risk
Cholera is a risk in parts of this country. Most travellers are at very low risk.
To protect against cholera, all travellers should practise safe food and water precautions.
Travellers at higher risk of getting cholera include those:
- visiting, working or living in areas with limited access to safe food, water and proper sanitation
- visiting areas where outbreaks are occurring
Vaccination may be recommended for high-risk travellers, and should be discussed with a health care professional.
Schistosomiasis
Schistosomiasis can be spread to humans through freshwater sources contaminated by blood flukes (tiny worms). The eggs of the worms can cause stomach illnesses like diarrhea and cramps or urinary problems. Risk is generally low for most travellers. Avoid swimming in freshwater sources (lakes, rivers, ponds). There is no vaccine available for schistosomiasis.
Travellers' diarrhea
- Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.
- Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.
- The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.
Typhoid
Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.
Travellers visiting regions with a risk typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.
Insects
Insects and Illness
In some areas in Southern Africa, certain insects carry and spread diseases like African trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness), Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever, chikungunya, lymphatic filariasis, malaria, Rift Valley fever, West Nile virus, and Zika virus.
Travellers are advised to take precautions against bites.
Chikungunya
There is currently a risk of chikungunya in this country. Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.
Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.
Dengue
- In this country, dengue fever may occur sporadically. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
- Dengue fever can cause severe flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to dengue haemorrhagic fever, which can be fatal.
- The level of risk of dengue fever changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. After a decline in reported dengue cases worldwide in 2017 and 2018, numbers have been steeply rising again.
- Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
- Protect yourself from mosquito bites. There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue fever.
Malaria
Malaria
- There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this country.
- Malaria is a serious and occasionally fatal disease that is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. There is no vaccine against malaria.
- Protect yourself from mosquito bites. This includes covering up, using insect repellent and staying in enclosed air-conditioned accommodations. You may also consider pre-treating clothing and travel gear with insecticides and sleeping under an insecticide-treated bednet.
- Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. See a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic, preferably six weeks before you travel to discuss your options.
Animals
Animals and Illness
Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats. Some infections found in Southern Africa, like rabies, can be shared between humans and animals.
Person-to-Person
Person-to-Person Infections
Crowded conditions can increase your risk of certain illnesses. Remember to wash your hands often and practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette to avoid colds, the flu and other illnesses.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV are spread through blood and bodily fluids; practise safer sex.
HIV
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks and impairs the immune system, resulting in a chronic, progressive illness known as AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome).
High risk activities include anything which puts you in contact with blood or body fluids, such as unprotected sex and exposure to unsterilized needles for medications or other substances (for example, steroids and drugs), tattooing, body-piercing or acupuncture.
Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.
For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.
Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.
High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.
Medical services and facilities
COVID-19 - Testing
Contact local health authorities, or the nearest Government of Canada office abroad to find out where you can get a COVID-19 test.
Medical facilities and medical supplies in Zimbabwe are limited.
There is a significant shortage of prescription medication. Make sure you bring enough prescription medication for the duration of your stay.
Almost all medical services, such as doctor visits, hospitals and air ambulance medical evacuation, must be paid for immediately in cash, as overseas medical insurance payments are rarely accepted.
Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.
Keep in Mind...
The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.
Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.
Laws and culture
Laws & culture
You must abide by local laws.
Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.
Illegal and restricted activities
Demonstrations and assemblies, even for private meetings, are illegal in Zimbabwe if not pre-approved by the government. Authorities have taken bystanders into custody at such events.
The penalties for possession and trafficking of illegal drugs include arrest, detention and prosecution.
Photography of the following is prohibited unless permission is granted from the Zimbabwe Ministry of Information:
- the State House
- government offices
- airports
- military establishments
- official residences and embassies
- police officers
- armed forces members
- demonstrators
Special permits may be needed for other photography. Observe all restrictions, as authorities strictly enforce them. If in doubt, do not take a picture.
It is a criminal offence in Zimbabwe to make derogatory or insulting comments about the president or the Zimbabwean government. Any person making such comments is liable to arrest and prosecution. Possession or importation of pornographic material is forbidden.
LGBTQ2 travellers
Zimbabwean law prohibits sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. LGBTQ2 travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Zimbabwe.
General safety information and advice for LGBTQ2 travellers abroad
Dual citizenship
Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Zimbabwe.
If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Zimbabwe, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.
General information for travellers with dual citizenship
Driving
Traffic drives on the left.
Using a cellular telephone without a hands-free device while driving is illegal and may result in a fine.
You should carry an International Driving Permit.
Money
As of June 24, 2019, the only legal tender in Zimbabwe is the “Zimbabwe Dollar (ZWL)”. This refers to government-issued bond notes, bond coins and mobile money known as real-time gross settlement (RTGS) systems. These have no monetary value outside of Zimbabwe.
In shops, restaurants and businesses, prices may no longer be shown in ZWL and US dollars. You should always check before making a transaction whether the price quoted is in ZWL or US dollars as the symbol for both is $.
Zimbabwe is currently experiencing a severe currency shortage. It is impossible to withdraw money from ATMs or banks using an international bank card. Check with your tour operator or hotel what payment methods will be accepted. It is prudent to bring sufficient US dollars to cover your stay.
You can bring in any amount of cash into Zimbabwe, but you can only leave the country with a maximum of US$2,000 in cash, or the equivalent in other foreign currencies, unless you completed a blue Baggage Declaration form upon entry. These forms, which are available in the baggage claim area at the airport, allow you to leave the country with as much money as you declared upon entry.
More about importation and exportation of currency by travellers
Counterfeit notes can be found in circulation. For safety reasons, don’t attempt to change currency at unregistered currency exchange offices or outlets.
Natural disasters and climate
Natural disasters & climate
The rainy season extends from November to March. Flash floods can occur and make some roads impassable. Keep informed of regional weather forecasts and plan accordingly.
Assistance
Assistance
Local services
Emergency services
Emergency services exist but may be subject to certain limitations. In case of emergency, dial 999.
Consular assistance
Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, the Embassy of Canada to Zimbabwe, in Harare, offers emergency consular services on an appointment basis only until further notice. Contact the Embassy by email to schedule an appointment.
Harare - Embassy of Canada
For emergency assistance after hours, call the Embassy of Canada in Harare and follow the instructions. You may also call the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa at 613-996-8885.
The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.
The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.
If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.
Learn more about consular services.