Moving to Zimbabwe

Moving Guide

Visa & Residence

Navigating the visa and residence permit process for Zimbabwe requires careful attention, as requirements vary significantly based on your nationality. For example, citizens from some countries (e.g., certain EU nations) may have different entry stipulations compared to those from non-EU countries or other regions.

Typical routes for obtaining long-term stay include:

• Work Permit: For individuals employed by a Zimbabwean company or establishing a business. This often requires sponsorship from the employer.
• Family Permit: For spouses or dependents of Zimbabwean citizens or residents.
• Study Permit: For those enrolled in recognized educational institutions in Zimbabwe.
• Residence Permit: For individuals demonstrating sufficient financial means to reside in Zimbabwe without seeking employment, or for specific investment purposes.

It is crucial to verify the most current requirements, application procedures, and necessary documentation directly with the official Zimbabwean immigration authorities or your nearest Zimbabwean embassy/consulate. Regulations can change, and official sources will provide the most accurate and up-to-date information relevant to your specific situation.

Housing & Rental

Finding suitable housing in Zimbabwe can be done through various channels. Common methods include engaging with local real estate agents, browsing online property portals, checking local newspaper classifieds, and utilizing word-of-mouth networks. Agents often have the most comprehensive listings and can facilitate viewings and negotiations.

The typical rental process involves identifying a property, viewing it, and then submitting an offer. Once an offer is accepted, a lease agreement will be drafted. This agreement outlines the terms of the tenancy, including rent amount, duration, and responsibilities of both tenant and landlord.

Deposits are standard practice. Landlords typically require a security deposit equivalent to one or two months' rent, which is refundable at the end of the tenancy, provided the property is returned in good condition, allowing for fair wear and tear. Some landlords may also request an advance payment of the first month's rent.

Consider your needs for temporary versus long-term housing. For initial arrival, a serviced apartment or short-term rental might be practical while you search for a long-term lease. Long-term leases are generally for a minimum of one year, offering more stability and often better rates.

What Affects the Cost of Your Move

The total cost of your relocation to Zimbabwe is influenced by several key factors, making it highly individualized. Understanding these elements will help you prepare your budget.

• Volume and Weight of Your Belongings: The more items you move, the higher the cost. This is a primary determinant for shipping expenses.
• Distance of the Move: Relocating from further afield naturally incurs greater transportation costs.
• Seasonality: Peak moving seasons (e.g., summer months in many Western countries) can sometimes lead to higher demand and potentially increased prices for moving services.
• Accessibility at Origin and Destination: Difficult access for moving vehicles (e.g., narrow roads, multiple flights of stairs, remote locations) can add to labor costs.
• Type of Transportation: Air freight is significantly faster but more expensive than sea freight.
• Additional Services: Opting for services like professional packing and unpacking, specialized handling for fragile or valuable items, storage solutions, or customs clearance assistance will add to the overall cost.

For an accurate estimate tailored to your specific relocation, it is essential to request a free, no-obligation quote from a reputable relocation provider.

Timeline & Packing Tips

A well-organized relocation typically spans 4-8 weeks. Here’s a checklist-style guide to help you manage your move:

8 Weeks Before Moving:

• Declutter: Start sorting through your belongings. Decide what to keep, donate, sell, or discard. This reduces moving costs and simplifies unpacking.
• Research & Request Quotes: Begin researching reputable relocation companies and obtain multiple quotes for comparison.
• Verify Visa & Residence: Reconfirm all visa and residence permit requirements and begin compiling necessary documents.

6 Weeks Before Moving:

• Book Your Mover: Confirm your chosen relocation provider and finalize dates.
• Gather Important Documents: Collect passports, birth certificates, marriage certificates, medical records, school records, financial statements, and insurance policies. Keep these in a secure, easily accessible bag that you will carry personally.
• Notify Schools/Employers: Inform relevant institutions of your departure.

4 Weeks Before Moving:

• Start Packing Non-Essentials: Begin packing items you won't need in the weeks leading up to your move (e.g., seasonal clothing, books, decorative items).
• Utilities & Subscriptions: Notify utility companies (electricity, water, internet) of your move-out date. Cancel or transfer subscriptions.
• Medical & Dental Check-ups: Schedule final appointments for the family. Obtain copies of prescriptions and medical records.

2 Weeks Before Moving:

• Change of Address: Arrange for mail forwarding.
• Confirm Travel Arrangements: Finalize flights and temporary accommodation in Zimbabwe.
• Assemble a "First Night" Box: Pack essentials like toiletries, a change of clothes, basic tools, snacks, and important documents for immediate access upon arrival.

1 Week Before Moving:

• Confirm with Movers: Reconfirm all details and timings with your relocation company.
• Clean Out Fridge/Pantry: Start consuming perishable foods.
• Charge Electronics: Ensure all devices are charged for travel.

Moving Day:

• Supervise Packing/Loading: Be present to answer questions and ensure everything is loaded.
• Final Walk-Through: Check all rooms, cupboards, and outdoor areas.
• Secure Important Documents: Ensure your personal bag with vital documents is with you.

For a smooth and stress-free relocation to Zimbabwe, request a free quote today on relocation123.com.

Visas, immigration & documents

Moving to this country often involves visas, residence permits, document translation/legalization and customs paperwork. Our verified partners handle the move itself; for visa or immigration help, send the request below and we'll point you the right way.

• Residence permit / visa (work, study, family)
• Document translation & apostille
• Customs clearance for personal effects
• Travel & goods insurance

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Customs & Import Rules

Moving to Zimbabwe: Your Essential Customs & Import Guide

Relocating to Zimbabwe involves navigating specific customs and import regulations. This guide provides a clear overview to help ensure a smooth transition for your personal belongings and household goods.

If you're relocating as a new resident or a returning resident after two years

If you are moving to Zimbabwe as a new resident with a work or residence permit, or returning after an absence of at least two years, you may import your household goods and personal effects without paying customs duties. This exemption applies to items that are not firearms, motor vehicles, or motor caravans.

What you'll need

• Your immigrant's declaration
• Undertaking Form 170 for personal and household effects (issued in Zimbabwe)
• Your valid passport
• Residence or Work Permit
• Bill of Lading or Air Waybill
• Detailed inventory, including serial numbers for electrical appliances
• Valued inventory
• Proof of termination of employment or completion of studies (for returning residents)
• Bank statement for the last 6 months
• Payslips for the past 2 years
• Proof of residence in Zimbabwe (e.g., utility bill or lease agreement - first and last page)
• Exit stamp from when you last left Zimbabwe
• Accepted returning resident stamp (if applicable)

Good to know

• You must be physically present at Customs for clearance.
• Your goods must arrive within three months of your arrival date in Zimbabwe.
• You will need to apply for an import license from the Ministry of Environment for items like refrigerators, air conditioners, freezers, washing machines, and dishwashers before your shipment leaves its origin country.
• Clearance typically takes about two days.
• Goods imported under this concession cannot be sold, leased, or otherwise disposed of for 24 months from their entry date unless customs duties are paid.

If you're a returning resident after less than two years

If you are returning to Zimbabwe after an absence of less than two years, your imported goods will generally be subject to duties and taxes.

What you'll need

• Immigrant's declaration
• Undertaking Form
• Valid passport
• Proof of original export if the goods are being re-imported
• Invoices/receipts for all imported goods (duties and taxes will be calculated in USD)
• Valued inventory
• Bill of Lading / Air Waybill / Road Manifest
• Proof of residence in Zimbabwe (e.g., utility bill or lease agreement - first and last page)
• Freight Invoice

Good to know

• Import licenses from the Ministry of Environment are required for refrigerators, air conditioners, freezers, washing machines, dishwashers, and furniture.
• Duties will be applicable if you have lived outside Zimbabwe for less than two years.

If you're moving with a Work Permit

If you are moving to Zimbabwe on a work permit, your household goods and personal effects may be imported without customs duties, provided you meet the criteria.

What you'll need

• Immigrant's declaration
• Undertaking Form
• Valid passport
• Your Work Permit
• Inventory of goods
• Valued Inventory
• Bills of Lading / Air Waybill / Road Manifest
• Proof of residence in Zimbabwe (e.g., utility bill or lease agreement - first and last page)
• Letter of contract from your new employer in Zimbabwe
• 3-6 months bank statement

Good to know

• Import licenses from the Ministry of Environment are required for refrigerators, air conditioners, freezers, washing machines, and dishwashers.
• Clearance typically takes about two days.

Diplomatic moves

Diplomats relocating to Zimbabwe have specific procedures for importing their belongings.

What you'll need

• Inventory of goods
• Valued Inventory
• Bill of Lading / Air Waybill / Road Manifest
• Passport
• Diplomatic card / Accreditation
• C152 form from the Embassy in Zimbabwe (applied for by the Embassy to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs)

Good to know

• All documents must be duly completed and signed by the diplomat and submitted to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Customs for clearance.
• Diplomatic shipments must be imported within three months of the diplomat’s arrival.
• Clearance involves first going through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (which can take 4-14 days) and then Customs (less than a day).

Moving after marriage (Wedding Trousseaux)

If you are importing wedding presents or souvenirs, there are specific rules regarding duties.

What you'll need

• Original invoice and freight statement

Good to know

• For accompanied luggage, customs will assess the value of presents/souvenirs. If the value exceeds USD 300 per individual, duty is payable on the excess amount.
• For unaccompanied luggage, customs will require proof that the traveler owns the consignment. Otherwise, import duty will be charged on the full value.

Inherited belongings

Goods forwarded to beneficiaries in Zimbabwe as part of a deceased estate are generally exempt from duty.

What you'll need

• Certified copy of the Will
• Copy of the death certificate
• Inventory of items in the beneficiary's name
• Letter from the High Court stating that you are the beneficiary and have inherited the goods
• Bill of Lading / Air Waybill / Road Manifest
• Statement of value of goods by the executor of the estate
• Letters of executorship
• Valued inventory
• Freight Invoice
• Written undertaking not to sell or dispose of the goods within one year of importation

Good to know

• No duty is payable on inherited goods.
• Import licenses from the Ministry of Environment are required for refrigerators, air conditioners, freezers, washing machines, dishwashers, and furniture.

Bringing special items

Vehicles

Each family member over 18 years old can import one motor vehicle duty-free, provided it was purchased before their entry into Zimbabwe. The vehicle's carrying capacity should be less than 15 people, including the driver.

What you'll need

• Form 171 (MV) for motor vehicles
• Immigrant's declaration
• Passport
• Residence permit/Work permit
• For new vehicles (if not covered by the above exemptions), invoice, registration document, and freight costs
• CBCA Certificate (Consignment Based Conformity Assessment), processed in the country of export
• For motor vehicles older than 10 years from the date of manufacture, an import permit from the Ministry of Industry and Commerce
• The Original Bill of Lading must show the Chassis Number, Engine number, Capacity, year of manufacture, brand, and model.
• For recently acquired vehicles, all relevant documentation, including invoices, bank cheques, and statements, must be produced to Customs.

Good to know

• There are no restrictions on importing vehicles.
• Used and new cars are subject to VAT.
• If you are a returning resident absent for less than two years, your vehicle will be subject to duty in foreign currency based on its full value.
• Taxes on cars vary between 100% and 110% of the CIF value, depending on age and engine capacity.
• Failure to provide a CBCA Certificate will result in penalties of 15% of the CIF value and a local inspection fee.

Pets

Pets are subject to import control and require specific documentation.

What you'll need

• Vaccination certificate

Good to know

• Applications for an import license should be made to the Director of Veterinary Services.

Restricted & Prohibited Items

Certain items are either restricted or completely prohibited from import.

• Dangerous Goods: Subject to import control. Applications for firearms and ammunition should be made to the Secretary of Home Affairs.
• Citrus fruits, deciduous plants, seeds: May not be imported without an import license obtained in advance from the competent agricultural authorities. A Phytosanitary certificate and a Port Health Certificate are required.
• Foodstuff: Importation is restricted and subject to import controls.
• Drugs, pornographic books, forged documents, counterfeit money: Importation is prohibited.

Alcohol & Tobacco

Persons visiting Zimbabwe and residents returning to the country, aged at least 18 years, may import a maximum of 2 liters of alcoholic drink. Of this, no more than 2 liters may be spirits.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to be present for customs clearance?
Yes, all immigrants are required to be physically present at Customs for clearance of their personal and household effects.

How long do I have to import my goods after I arrive?
Your personal effects and household goods must be imported within three months of your arrival date in Zimbabwe.

Can I sell my imported goods after they arrive?
Generally, no. Imported goods cannot be sold, leased, or otherwise disposed of for 24 months from their date of entry, unless customs duties are paid.

Are new furniture and household goods treated differently?
Yes, new furniture and household goods are subject to duty and VAT, and are not applicable for new immigrants under the duty-free concession. They also require ODS licenses and import permits.

What about agricultural equipment?
Agricultural equipment is generally duty-free but is subject to import controls. You will need a commercial invoice, packing list, and Bill of Lading / Air Waybill.

What is an ODS Licence?
An ODS (Ozone Depleting Substances) Licence is an import license required from the Ministry of Environment for certain electrical appliances like refrigerators, air conditioners, freezers, washing machines, and dishwashers, as well as furniture.

For further assistance with your relocation to Zimbabwe, please contact relocation123.com.

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