GOVERNMENT has unveiled a new digital platform that will allow citizens to apply for passports online, marking a major milestone in the country’s push to modernise public service delivery.
However, government says there are no immediate plans to decentralise passport printing to district levels, citing both operational challenges and international security standards.
The announcement was made in parliament yesterday, where the Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security Jack Mwiimbu, explained that whole accessiblity is greatly improved through digital innovation, passport production must remain tightly controlled.
“By the end of this month, citizens will be able to apply for their passports from home, track the process, and have their documents delivered directly to them. But printing will continue to be done at three main centres, as decentralising this process would raise serious security concerns,” stated Mwiimbu.
Zambia currently operates three passport printing facilities in Lusaka, Ndola, and Livingstone and each centre serves multiple provinces, while all ten provinces are equipped to handle passport applications and distribute completed documents.
The minister said the centralised system is consistent with the standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), which recommends centralised production for greater document security, uniformity, and efficiency.
“This model isn’t about limiting access, it’s about protecting the integrity of the Zambian passport and aligning with global best practices,” he said.
It was also revealed that the new online application platform is being integrated into the Government Service Bus Pay gateway, enabling users to complete the entire process digitally from submission to payment and delivery without needing to visit an immigration office.
While embracing digital transformation, Mwiimbu said government will also continue to accommodate citizens in remote areas by allowing manual applications at provincial offices.
“We are making sure no one is left behind because those in rural communities will still be able to apply through traditional channels.”
The introduction of online passport services is part of a broader effort by the government to digitise public services, reduce bureaucratic delays, and improve access for citizens nationwide.
By Sharon Zulu
Kalemba October 3, 2025
