01/13/2026
Russia Begins Talks on Visa Free Travel With Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Eswatini
Russia has confirmed that it is in talks to extend visa free travel to Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Eswatini, a move aimed at boosting tourism and strengthening diplomatic and economic ties in southern Africa.
The announcement was made by Sangadzhi Tarbaev, head of the Russian State Duma’s tourism committee, who said negotiations are underway to add the four countries to Russia’s growing list of African visa free partners. Russian officials say interest in Africa among Russian travelers has been gradually rising, partly due to shifting travel patterns away from Europe and stronger ties with non Western partners.
At present, the proposed visa free arrangements are not yet fully signed or operational. They remain at the negotiation stage, meaning travelers from both sides will still need visas until formal agreements are concluded and officially announced by the respective governments.
Russia already has reciprocal visa free travel agreements with several African countries including South Africa, Namibia, Morocco, Tunisia, Seychelles and Mauritius. Expanding this list is part of Moscow’s broader effort to deepen engagement with Africa through tourism, business, and people to people exchanges.
If finalized, the inclusion of Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Eswatini would expand Russia’s presence in a region known for wildlife tourism, natural attractions and cultural heritage, while opening new avenues for cooperation beyond traditional diplomacy.
Would you consider traveling to or doing business with Russia if visas were no longer required?
