All You Need To Know About The Zimbabwe Passport
The Zimbabwe passport is an official document that is issued by the government of Zimbabwe to its citizens.
It serves as a form of identification and travel document for Zimbabweans who wish to travel outside of the country. In this article, we will explore the history of the Zimbabwe passport, its features, and how to obtain one.
History of the Zimbabwe Passport
The document has a relatively short history, having only been in existence since 1980 when Zimbabwe gained its independence from British colonial rule. Prior to this, Zimbabwe was known as Rhodesia, and its citizens held Rhodesian passports.
The first was issued on April 18, 1980, to the country’s first Prime Minister, Robert Mugabe. The passport has a green cover with the Zimbabwe bird and the words “Republic of Zimbabwe” inscribed on it.
All You Need To Know About The Zimbabwe Passport [Image: Linda Mujuru/GPJ Zimbabwe]
Features of the Zimbabwe Passport
The passport is biometric, meaning that it contains a microchip that stores the passport holder’s personal information, including their name, date of birth, photograph, and fingerprint data. This information can be read electronically at border control checkpoints, making the process of entering and leaving countries faster and more efficient.
It also contains a number of security features to prevent counterfeiting and fraud. These include holographic images, watermarks, and ultraviolet light images that can only be seen under special lighting conditions.
The document is valid for 10 years and is issued by the Civil Registry Department offices dotted across Zimbabwe. It is important to note that the passport is the property of the government of Zimbabwe, and holders are required to surrender it upon request by a government official.
Obtaining a Zimbabwe Passport
To obtain one, you must be a citizen of Zimbabwe and apply in person at the Civil Registry Department offices across Zimbabwe or at one of the country’s foreign missions.
The application process involves filling out a form, providing proof of identity, and paying the required fees. The fees vary depending on the type of passport being applied for and the urgency of the application.
All You Need To Know About The Zimbabwe Passport [Image: Living Zimbabwe]
Documents And Fees Needed When Applying For A Passport
To apply for a passport, you will need:
- Your ID and copy
- Original Birth Certificate and a copy
- Old or expiring passport and a copy
When applying for a passport, you must bring US$120.00 (US$20 application fee and US$100 for the passport). If you require an emergency passport, the cost is US$220.00. The processing time for a regular passport is seven working days from the date of application, while an emergency passport can be issued within 3 days.
If this is the first time a child or person under 18 is applying, they must be accompanied by a parent and bring the following documents:
- parent’s ID and birth certificate (along with copies)
- child’s birth certificate or ID (with copies)
- old passport (with a copy) if applicable. The cost for a passport for those under 18 is the same as above and is valid for 5 years.
All You Need To Know About The Zimbabwe Passport [Image: ICAO]
If your old passport has been stolen and you wish to apply for a new one, you must bring a police report with you. Before proceeding with your application, it is recommended that you visit the reception to ensure that all necessary documents are in order. They will direct you to the CBZ Bank, located in the mezzanine hall, where you can pay the passport application fee.
The Zimbabwe passport is an essential document for citizens of Zimbabwe who wish to travel outside of the country. It is a biometric passport that contains a microchip with the holder’s personal information and has several security features to prevent counterfeiting and fraud. Obtaining a Zimbabwe passport requires a visit to the Civil Registry Department or one of the country’s foreign missions, along with the required fees and documentation.
