Visa to Malawi—Malawi Visa Application Made Easy
Last Updated : Sep 4, 2023
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If you're a US citizen planning a trip to Malawi, it's important to understand the visa requirements and application process. Here's what you need to know to obtain a Malawi e-visa:
Do US citizens need a visa for Malawi? Yes, you do.
Type of visa required: eVisa or Electronic visa.
Visa cost: Single entry visa costs USD 50, a multiple entry visa for 6 months costs USD 150, and a multiple Entry for 12 Months cost USD 250.
Visa processing time: 3-5 business days.
Malawi visa validity: 90 days.
Fastest way to apply: Atlys.
Get Your Visa To Malawi Without Hassle!
With the Atlys app you can apply for your visa to Malawi without any trouble. The app streamlines the visa application process and guides you through every step.
You can use a credit card (Visa, Mastercard, and American Express), debit card, mobile wallet, and dozens of other payment cards worldwide to pay your visa fee on Atlys. The app also saves your information so the next time you apply will be even faster!
Don't think that a visa application process can be this easy? Read all about it in the "How to apply through Atlys" section
Do US Citizens Need A Visa For Malawi?
Yes, US citizens need a visa to enter Malawi. Fortunately, Malawi offers an e-visa system that makes the application process fast and convenient.
Do US Green Card Holders Need A Visa For Malawi?
It depends on your nationality. If your country of nationality is on Malawi's visa-exempt list, you don't have to apply for a visa. However, if it's not, you have to apply for one.
You can use the Malawi eligibility checker to see if you need a visa.
What Are The Required Documents For A Malawi E Visa?
To apply for a visa to Malwai, you must have the following required documents ready in digital format:
A recent passport-size photograph.
A scanned copy of your passport biodata page.
Covering letter from the host in Malawi, and the host must sign it.
Covering letter from Agent or Accommodation booking (must be signed by agent).
Documents Required For A Minor Traveling To Malawi
If a minor is traveling to Malawi with or without a guardian, they need the following documents:
Birth Certificate.
Passport Copy (Bio Data Page) of Guardian/ Parent.
Document Proof of Legal Guardianship (if not natural parent).
What Are The Passport Requirements For A Malawi E Visa?
Your passport must meet the following requirements:
Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Malawi.
And must have at least two blank pages for visa stamps.
What Are The Valid Passport Photo Requirements For A Malawi E Visa?
Your passport photo must meet certain requirements (visa requirements). Your photo must meet the following requirements:
The photo should be in JPEG format.
The file size of the photo should be less than 1 MB.
The photo should be taken within the last six months.
The photo should be in color.
The photo should be taken against a plain white or off-white background.
You should have a neutral expression with your mouth closed.
You should face the camera directly with your head and shoulders centered in the frame.
Your eyes should be open and visible.
Your face should be fully visible and not obscured by glasses or hair.
It is important to note that the Malawi e-visa application system is designed to detect and reject any photos that do not meet the above requirements. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that your passport photo meets these standards before uploading it to your application.
You can always use the free passport photo maker on Atlys to ensure your photo meets every requirement to the tee.
How To Apply For A Visa To Malawi Through Atlys?
The easiest and fastest way to apply is at your fingertips. Let me show you just how esy the visa application process can be:
To apply through Atlys you must first download the app or simply apply online. Then, you need to choose your citizenship, country you want to travel to, and your travel dates.
Next, you need to complete the online visa application form and upload the required documents. Atlys has a neat feature where you can scan your documents and it will automatically upload the information. You just need to double-check that the information is correct.
Lastly, you must pay the visa fee of USD 77 and submit your application.
Atlys will keep you up to date on the progress of your visa via the email you used to apply.
How To Apply For A Visa To Malawi Online?
The Malawi visa application visa is fairly straightforward. If you follow my step-by-step guide, you'll have your visa in no time.
Step 1: Visit the Malawi e-Visa website
Go to the Malawi e-Visa website. Then, scroll down to the bottom of the page and click the "Apply for Visa" button to begin the application process.
Step 2: Create an account
If you are a first-time user, you will need to create an account by providing your email address and creating a password. If you already have an account, log in using your email address and password.
Step 3: Fill out the visa application form
Then, you must click on "New e-Visa Application."
Next, complete the online visa application form, providing personal information such as your full name, date of birth, and passport details.
Step 4: Upload the required documents
You will need to upload scanned copies of your passport, a recent passport-style photo, and a copy of your flight itinerary or travel plans.
Step 5: Pay the application fee
The cost of a Malawi e-visa for US citizens is USD 50. You can pay the fee using a debit or credit card.
Step 6: Submit your application
Once you have completed the application form and paid the fee, review your application to ensure all information is accurate. Then, click on the "Submit" button.
Step 7: Receive your e-visa
Once your application is approved, you will receive your e-visa via email. Print a copy of the e-visa and carry it with you when traveling to Malawi.
It is important to note that the processing time for a Malawi e-visa is typically three business days. However, it is recommended that you apply at least a week before your trip to allow for any unforeseen delays.
Overview Of The Visa To Malawi
Remember those little snippets of information in the intro? Well, this is where I'll discuss that information more in depth and then some extra information.
How Much Is A Visa For Malawi?
The cost of a Malawi visa depends on the type of visa you apply for:
Single entry visa: USD 50.
Multiple entry visa for 6 months: USD 150.
Multiple Entry for 12 Months: USD 250.
Please note that these fees are non refundable.
How Long Does It Take To Process A Visa To Malawi?
The processing time for a Malawi e-visa is typically 3-5 business days. However, applying at least a week before your trip is recommended to allow for any unforeseen delays.
Keep in mind that certain factors can extend the processing time. These factors include:
Applying during the weekend or public holiday.
Peak season when there are loads of applications.
Missing documents.
Incorrect information on the application form.
What Is The Validity Of A Malawi Visa?
Your visa is valid for either 90 days, 6 months, or 12 months (depending on the visa you apply for). However, the maximum days you can spend in Malawi is usually 90 days.
How Can I Check My Malawi Visa Status?
To check your visa status, go to the Malawi e Visa System website. Then, scroll down to the bottom of the page and click "Check Status of visa."
Next, you need to enter your application number and date of birth. Then, click "Search." Your visa status will pop up after a few seconds.
What To Expect At Immigration
When you arrive in Malawi, you will need to present your passport and e-visa at immigration. In addition, you may be asked for proof of onward travel and sufficient funds for your stay.
Can I Extend My Malawi Visa?
Yes, it is possible to extend your Malawi visa by applying at the Malawi Immigration Department in Lilongwe.
How Can I Extend My Malawi Visa?
You can check your visa status by following this small guide.
Step 1: Determine your eligibility
Before applying for a visa extension, make sure you are eligible. The Malawi Department of Immigration may grant visa extensions in some cases, such as for medical treatment or due to unforeseen circumstances that prevented you from leaving the country before your visa expired. You will need to provide evidence to support your extension request.
Step 2: Apply for an extension
To apply for a visa extension, you will need to visit the Malawi Department of Immigration in person. Bring your passport, a copy of your passport, your original visa, and any other supporting documents, such as medical certificates or flight tickets. Then, fill out an application form and pay the visa extension fee, which varies depending on the length of your extension.
Step 3: Wait for the processing
The processing time for a visa extension varies and can take up to several weeks. Applying for an extension at least one week before your visa expires is recommended to allow enough time for processing. During this time, you will need to remain in Malawi.
Step 4: Collect your new visa
If your extension is approved, you will receive a new visa stamp in your passport. If your extension is denied, you will need to leave the country before your current visa expires.
Step 5: Pay any additional fees
If you overstayed your visa before applying for an extension, you might be required to pay a fine before leaving the country. The amount of the fine depends on the length of your overstay.
It is important to note that visa extensions are not guaranteed, and the decision to approve or deny an extension is at the discretion of the Malawi Department of Immigration. Therefore, providing all necessary documentation and evidence to support your extension request is important.
That's It!
In conclusion, obtaining a visa to Malawi as a US citizen is straightforward and can be done online through the e-visa system. However, ensure that you have all the necessary documents and apply in advance to avoid any delays. For further information, check out our FAQ section.
Sources:
This post was fact checked and written with AI assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, US citizens cannot apply for a Malawi visa on arrival. Instead, they must obtain a visa before traveling to Malawi, either by applying online for an e-visa or in person at the Malawi embassy or consulate.