Government has officially launched and operationalised the online passport application and payment system on ZamPortal, marking a significant step in Zambia’s digital transformation journey.

Updating the nation through a Ministerial Statement, Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security, Mr. Jack Mwiimbu, said the system is now fully operational on ZamPortal at https://zamportal.gov.zm.

Mr. Mwiimbu disclosed that the platform allows citizens to apply for passports and travel documents from anywhere and at any time, providing a secure, efficient and citizen centred service. He noted that the initiative aligns with Government’s digital agenda being implemented through the Smart Zambia Institute and the Ministry of Finance and National Planning.

The Minister explained, that the move to digitalise passport services was aimed at addressing challenges associated with the manual process, which included long queues, high transport costs and lost productivity, especially for applicants from remote areas. The digitalisation project was commissioned in 2022 to improve efficiency and service delivery.

The system currently supports applications for Zambian passports, diplomatic passports, refugee travel documents, COMESA Laisser Passer and travel documents of identity. Processing timelines have been set at fourteen (14) days for Lusaka, Ndola and Livingstone, and twenty one (21) days for other provincial capitals. Meanwhile, manual applications will continue to run concurrently during the transition period.