Living in Zimbabwe: the ultimate expat guide
Everything you need to know for a successful life in Zimbabwe.
Zimbabwe is a landlocked country in the southern part of Africa. Expatriates choosing to settle here to live and work will meet with a warm and hospitable local population. Harare, the capital city, is an ideal destination in the country for an expat family project. Although traditions are still lively, the country is experiencing a change in its lifestyle, being more Western-style.
Zimbabwe covers the territory of 390,757 square kilometres and has over 16.6 million people. Bantu-speaking ethnic groups are the majority (over 98%) of the population. Zimbabwe has several official languages: English, Shona, Sindebele, and many tribal languages and dialects spoken in different areas. Harare is the capital and largest city of Zimbabwe while the Bulawayo city in the southwest is the industrial and commercial centre.
Zimbabwe's economy is currently in the recovery stage and showing steady growth. It still depends strongly on agriculture and mining sectors, however, the fall in diamond prices and poor harvests have slowed down the country's economic development.
Zimbabwe is a country of astonishing natural beauty offering its visitors an escape into the wild. From UNESCO World Heritage archaeological attractions such as Great Zimbabwe (a former town of the Munhumutapa Empire) to the breathtaking views of Victoria Falls, there is no shortage of things to explore in the region. Zimbabwe's national parks offer an inside look into the lives of many endangered species, and the Eastern Highlands offer some of the best views of the country's landscapes.
Citizens of 45 countries can travel to Zimbabwe visa-free and stay for a period of up to three months. Residents of most other countries are eligible for obtaining a visa on arrival. Alternatively, you will need to apply for a visa in advance at one of Zimbabwe's diplomatic missions.
