Zimbabwe Rolls Out Digital Immigration System to Ease Entry Processes and Boost Tourism

The Zimbabwean government has launched an online platform for visa applications and traveller clearance, aiming to modernise border control and enhance national security. The Online Border Management System (OBMS) allows for the digitisation of key immigration processes, including the issuance of electronic visas (e-visas) and electronic permits (e-permits). The new system replaces the traditional paper-based system with a fast, secure, and user-friendly digital platform.

Key Takeaways:

• The OBMS allows visa applications, residence and work permits, and traveller clearance processes to be handled electronically, easing congestion at ports of entry and enhancing national security.
• E-visas can be applied for online, alleviating the burden of sending manual applications through postal services or consular offices.
• The e-permit platform is being rolled out for visitors intending to stay longer in Zimbabwe, allowing them to apply for residence permits online.
• The e-gates installed at some ports of entry use facial recognition and passport data to allow registered travellers to pass through immigration without human assistance.
• The system is modelled along the lines of Dubai's Smart Gates Platform, which offers a fast and contactless way for eligible travellers to go through passport control.
• The development of the e-permits platform is still in progress, with modules for temporary employment permits and investor residence permits already operational.
• The OBMS will provide a world-class immigration service, offering improved security, user-friendliness, and convenience.

Statistics:

• 7 e-gates have been deployed to Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport.
• 1 e-gate has been deployed to Victoria Falls Airport.
• 2 e-gates have been deployed to Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Airport.
• 4 e-gates have been deployed to Beitbridge Border Post.
• The OBMS is the first of its kind in the region.