Family Matters: Guidance for Including Dependants on Zambian Employment Permits
By Marian, Immigration Specialist at Corpus Globe Corporate Solutions (CGCSo)
For expatriates working in Zambia, the ability to bring family along is more than a convenience, it is essential for personal stability, well-being, and peace of mind.
However, the process of including spouses and children under an Employment Permit (EP) can be complex. Under the Immigration and Deportation Act No. 18 of 2010 (“the Act”), there is no provision for separate dependant permit cards. Yet, the Zambian Immigration Department allows family members to be included on the principal EP, ensuring that families can legally stay together while the principal permit holder works in the country. Understanding how to navigate this process correctly is key and having an expert partner makes all the difference.
Understanding the Current Legal Framework
The Act primarily governs the issuance of Employment Permits for foreign nationals. While it does not explicitly provide for dependant permit cards, practical measures exist to allow family members, including spouses and children, to be included under the principal EP. This approach ensures that families can reside legally in Zambia without requiring separate permits, provided the Immigration Department approves their inclusion.
The Practical Process for Including Dependants
Including family members on an Employment Permit involves several key steps:
- Submission of Supporting Documents: Applicants must provide official documents such as marriage certificates, birth certificates for children, and any other documents required by the Immigration Department.
- Verification and Approval: The Immigration Department reviews the documents and confirms the inclusion of dependants on the principal permit.
- Maintaining Legal Status: Once approved, the family members’ legal stay in Zambia is tied to the principal EP holder’s permit, ensuring compliance with immigration laws.
Conclusion
While Zambian law does not explicitly provide for separate dependant permits, the inclusion of family members on the principal Employment Permit offers a practical solution for keeping families together. Partnering with Corpus Globe Corporate Solutions ensures that this process is smooth, compliant, and stress-free, allowing expatriates to focus on both professional responsibilities and family life.
Why Corpus Globe Corporate Solutions is the Best Immigration Partner
Navigating the inclusion of family members on an Employment Permit requires both legal knowledge and practical experience. At Corpus Globe Corporate Solutions, we specialize in guiding expatriates and organizations through this process efficiently and in full compliance with immigration regulations. Here’s why clients trust us:
- Expert Knowledge: Our team is fully versed in the Immigration and Deportation Act and practical directives from the Immigration Department regarding family inclusion.
- Comprehensive Support: From preparing and submitting documentation to liaising with immigration authorities, we handle every step meticulously.
- Compliance Assurance: We ensure that all family members are legally recognized under the principal permit, reducing the risk of complications or non-compliance.
- Peace of Mind: With Corpus Globe handling the process, principal permit holders can focus on their work and personal life, confident that their families’ status is secure.
Contact us today to discuss how we can assist with including your family on your Employment Permit and ensure a seamless, legally compliant stay in Zambia.
Contact Us:
Phone: +260 211 296011 / 12 / 13 | +260 960 628385 | +260 770 628385 | +260 953 083688
Email: cgcso@cgcso.co.zm