Zambian govt scrambles arrangements to ensure country overcomes US threat to impose travel restrictions on citizens

Zambia has received formal communication from the United States government indicating that it is considering the imposition of travel restrictions on Zambian citizens should certain outstanding concerns remain unaddressed within a timeframe of 60 days.

Foriegn Affairs and International Cooperation Minister, Mulambo Haimbe, said the proposed travel restrictions were premised on three core concerns namely passport security, immigration enforcement and information sharing deficiencies.

Haimbe told Parliament in a ministerial statement on friday that this decision had immediate consequences such as reduced access to the U.S. for Zambian nationals and negative economic and investment signals.

He said this would also create consequences such as diaspora and family separation challenges challenges and disruption to bilateral programs.

“The long-term impact of this development include reputational risk in the global arena, reduced diplomatic leverage, diaspora confidence and engagement, investor risk perception and opportunity for institutional reforms,” Haimbe stated.

In response to the communication and the seriousness of the matter, Haimbe said the government had adopted a coordinated, multi-sectoral approach to address the issues raised and pursue Zambia’s removal from the potential ban list.

He stated that the Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security was actively enhancing passport issuance systems and aligning them with international best practices.

“Collaborative measures are underway to improve the repatriation of Zambians with final removal orders, in full respect of human rights and due process,” Haimbe said.

He stated that the Ministry had formally responded to the U.S. Embassy and had instructed Zambia’s Mission in Washington, D.C. to seek continuous engagement with the U.S. Department of State and Homeland Security.

Haimbe emphasized that the goal was to have Zambia removed from consideration within the 60-day review period aforementioned.

“I wish to update your office that a meeting was held with the US ambassador to Zambia and officials at high level at which I was present on 24th June, 2025 where the following measures were agreed.

Formal diplomatic engagement: The meeting addressed the rationale behind Zambia’s potential inclusion on the U.S. travel ban list and reaffirmed both countries’ commitment to resolving outstanding consular and security matters.

Establishment of regular consultative mechanism: It was agreed that periodic meetings between the Ministry and the U.S. Embassy will be institutionalized to ensure consistent communication, early warning, and joint tracking of all critical consular issues—including travel document integrity and immigration matters.

Data sharing on overstayers: The U.S. Government committed to sharing specific data on Zambian nationals who have overstayed their tourist and student visas. This data will aid Zambia in taking informed action to remedy immigration enforcement concerns.

Fast-tracking responses to extradition requests: Zambia is currently reviewing all pending extradition requests from the United States with urgency and in accordance with international law.

Document security enhancement: The U.S. Embassy expressed willingness to support Zambia with technical assistance to digitize and enhance the security features of passports and National Registration Cards, thereby reducing risks of identity fraud linked to visa applications.” He said.

Haimbe assured that the Zambian government remained fully committed to resolving this matter swiftly and transparently.

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, in collaboration with all relevant ministries and stakeholders, is actively engaging the United States with the aim of securing Zambia’s removal from consideration within the diplomatic window provided,” he said.

Meanwhile, Haimbe told Parliament that as of June 20, 2025, a total of 177 Zambians were registered and prioritised for evacuation through the Taba border crossing into Egypt and route reconnaissance confirmed Egypt as the most viable exit route as result of the middle east conflict.

He said vulnerable individuals, including students, minors, and persons with health conditions, were given priority and evacuees received consular assistance and guidance on safe passage.

“It is important to note that the evacuation has not yet commenced. However, no fatalities have been recorded, and all necessary preparations have been made to ensure the safe and timely relocation of affected individuals,” Haimbe stated.

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