Navigating Employment Permit Applications for Foreign Nationals while in Zambia
By Emely, Legal Assistant at Corpus Globe Corporate Solutions (CGCSo)
In an increasingly interconnected world, Zambia continues to position itself as an attractive destination for foreign investment and talent.
As companies scale and diversify their operations, access to international expertise becomes critical, and this is where understanding Zambia’s immigration framework becomes indispensable.
One of the most commonly required immigration statuses for foreign nationals taking up employment in Zambia is the Employment Permit (EP). Regulated under Section 28 of the Immigration and Deportation Act No. 18 of 2010, the Employment Permit is issued to individuals intending to work in Zambia for a period exceeding six months. Typically granted for an initial two-year period, the permit is renewable for up to a maximum of ten years.
The Common Rule and a Strategic Exception
By default, Zambia’s immigration laws require all applicants for Employment Permits to remain outside the country while the application is under review. This provision is designed to ensure compliance and manage inflows effectively. However, the law allows for strategic exceptions that can be critical for employers seeking to onboard key personnel urgently or retain foreign talent already in-country.
In such cases, the host company can formally request special authority from the Director General of Immigration to permit the applicant to remain in Zambia during the processing period. Whether this request is granted hinges on the strength of the justification provided and how clearly the applicant’s value to the organisation is demonstrated.
Leadership in Advocacy: Building a Strong Case
What sets successful applications apart is not merely the paperwork, but the strategic articulation of the applicant’s role, contribution, and expertise. At this intersection of compliance and operational necessity, leadership matters. Companies must be prepared to present a clear, factual, and compelling case outlining the impact of the foreign national on business continuity, knowledge transfer, or technical advancement.
At Corpus Globe Corporate Solutions, we understand that navigating such processes requires more than just understanding the law, it requires a partner who can think strategically, advocate effectively, and act promptly. Our approach is driven by professionalism, attention to detail, and a deep commitment to helping our clients comply while remaining agile and competitive.
Whether you are bringing in a senior executive, a technical expert, or an operations manager, we are here to ensure that your business remains compliant and supported throughout the immigration process. Our team is ready to guide you through the complexities of Employment Permit applications, including those rare but essential cases where in-country application is both necessary and justified.
Contact Us:
Phone: +260 211 296011 / 12 / 13 | +260 960 628385 | +260 770 628385 | +260 953 083688
Email: cgcso@cgcso.co.zm