Planning a visit to the beautiful country of Malawi from Belarus? Great choice! With lush landscapes, welcoming people and stunning lake views, Malawi delivers. The good news: the online e-visa system makes things simpler. Below is a full guide for Belarusian travellers (and anyone else) on apply for Malawi eVisa from Belarus – and everything else you might wonder about.
What are the eligibility criteria for the Malawi eVisa?
When you apply for the Malawi eVisa via the online portal, you’ll need to make sure you meet the Malawi eVisa eligibility criteria. According to the Malawi e-Visa system:
You must apply with an ordinary passport (not a travel document or special/reserved passport type).
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.
You must upload the required documents (passport photo, travel information, etc) through the official portal.
Nationality: The visa-eligibility wizard lists the countries/nationalities which may apply — you must be from a nationality that is eligible for the e-Visa.
Application must be completed before travel; you should not travel to Malawi before your e-Visa has been approved.
You must pay the visa fee online (for the e-Visa) and your application must be processed/approved. What documents are required to enter Malawi eVisa? Here’s a practical checklist of Malawi eVisa Requirements you should get in order before applying:
You must pay the visa fee online (for the e-Visa) and your application must be processed/approved.
What documents are required to enter Malawi eVisa?
Here’s a practical checklist of Malawi eVisa Requirements you should get in order before applying:
You must pay the visa fee online (for the e-Visa) and your application must be processed/approved.
What documents are required to enter Malawi eVisa?
Here’s a practical checklist of Malawi eVisa Requirements you should get in order before applying:
Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity, 2 blank pages)
Completed visa application form
Recent passport-size photo
Proof of sufficient funds
Flight itinerary and accommodation proof
Purpose-specific documents (e.g., invitation letter, business letter, admission letter, or medical letter)
Yellow fever vaccination certificate (if applicable)
Travel health insurance (recommended)
From Belarus you’ll still apply online — so you’ll need good scans/photos of these and to fill in the eVisa application form.
How do I apply online for the Malawi eVisa?
Apply for Malawi eVisa online is fairly straightforward — especially if you prepare ahead. Here are the steps:
Create an account on the Malawi eVisa portal.
Complete the application form: fill in personal information (name, passport details, nationality – in your case Belarus), travel details (dates, purpose, accommodation) and upload the required documents (passport scan, photo, itinerary etc).
Proceed to payment: you’ll pay the relevant processing fee online using a credit or debit card.
Submit your application. After submission, you’ll receive an acknowledgement by email. Then the processing begins.
Once approved, you’ll receive your eVisa certificate/document by email. You should download, print it (carry a hard copy) and bring it with you when you travel. At the port of entry you’ll present this eVisa with your passport.
A few helpful hints:
Double-check your passport number, name spelling, nationality and dates — the eVisa will match your passport and you must travel on that same passport.
Make sure the photo you upload meets the size/format guidelines. Some applicants report issues with photos not uploading correctly.
From Belarus you’ll want to apply well ahead of your travel date (see below).
Carry a print-out of your eVisa certificate and make a digital copy as backup.
Double-check that your card payment works for international payments (see the section on payment methods further down).
How long does it take to process a Malawi eVisa?
The Malawi e-Visa Processing Time is reasonably quick, but it depends on how complete your application is and how busy the system is at the time.
Standard processing is listed as 6-9 working days.
And Rush Processing is 4-5 working days, and Express Processing is 3-5 working days for certain applications.
Because you are applying from Belarus and need time for document gathering, screenshots, etc., it’s wise to apply at least a week or more in advance of travel.
In practise: submit your application, then watch for the approval email. Once you’re approved you’re good to go. But don’t leave this to the last minute.
How much does the Malawi eVisa cost?
While I’ll avoid specifying actual fees (so as to stay in line with your request), here’s how the cost is structured:
There is a fee which depends on the type of visa (single-entry, multiple-entry, transit).
The portal clearly states that fees are non-refundable once paid.
For your specific situation (applying from Belarus) you’ll pay the fee online in US dollars via the eVisa portal. Always check the latest published schedule on the official site before applying.
What types of Malawi eVisa are available (single entry, multiple entry, transit)?
Yes — Malawi offers a few types of eVisa to suit different kinds of travel.
Single-entry eVisa — for a one-time arrival in Malawi, typical for tourism or business.
Multiple-entry eVisa — allows you to enter Malawi more than once during the validity period (useful if you plan to leave and re-enter).
Transit eVisa — for travellers who will pass through Malawi and stay only briefly (for example less than 7 days) before continuing on.
Also, there are classifications by purpose: Tourist/Business, Transit, Official/Diplomatic. When you apply online from Belarus you’ll select the appropriate entry type based on your travel plans.
What payment methods are accepted for the eVisa?
Good news: The Malawi eVisa portal accepts credit and debit cards (Visa or MasterCard) for online payment.
A few practical notes especially for applicants from Belarus:
Ensure your card allows international online payments (some Belarus-issued cards may require you to enable this feature or notify the bank).
The eVisa portal states that payment should be made in US Dollars.
Some travellers report that cards which aren’t enrolled in older 3-D secure systems can get rejected.
If your Belarus debit/credit card doesn’t work, you might consider alternative card from any bank that allows USD transactions online, or a payment processor accepted by your card-issuer.
In short: from Belarus you can use your credit/debit card, just ensure it supports the required currency and online foreign payments.
How long is the eVisa valid once issued?
Once you’re approved for the Malawi eVisa and the certificate is issued, the key dates to watch are:
The validity period starts from the date of issue, not the date you enter Malawi.
For example: if you obtain a single-entry eVisa that is valid for 90 days from issue, you must enter Malawi within that 90-day window. Otherwise the visa expires.
After entry, your permitted stay within Malawi depends on the type of visa: often up to 30 days for tourist visas, sometimes longer for business/multiple entry.
Tip: If your travel date is a bit flexible, don’t apply too early. You don’t want your entry window to expire before you arrive.
Can I extend the Malawi eVisa once I’m inside Malawi?
Yes, in many cases, you can ask for a Malawi eVisa Extension of your stay when inside Malawi. According to sources:
Extensions are handled by Malawi Immigration offices (for example in Lilongwe or Blantyre).
You’ll need to apply before your current stay expires, provide your passport, current visa, and reason for extension (e.g., medical, unexpected delay).
Extension is not guaranteed — approval is at the discretion of immigration officials.
There may be additional extension fees, depending on length and reason.
So: yes, you can extend, but plan and leave enough margin to apply before expiry.
What if my eVisa application is rejected? Can I appeal or reapply?
If your eVisa application for Malawi is rejected, here’s what you need to know:
The official Malawi portal states that eVisa fees are non-refundable if your application is rejected.
The process allows you to reapply once you correct whatever might have caused the rejection (for example missing document, poor photo, incomplete form).
It may not always use the word “appeal” in the sense of a tribunal, but yes you can submit a new application addressing the issues flagged.
The portal also states that the visa decision is at the discretion of immigration authorities and they are not required to provide detailed reasons for refusal.
Advice: If your first attempt fails, review your documents carefully, ensure everything is clear and legible, make any needed corrections and apply again. Give yourself extra time so you aren’t left stranded waiting for approval.
What is the minimum remaining validity on the passport for Malawi eVisa?
The general guidance for Malawi’s eVisa and visa on arrival systems indicates:
Your passport should be valid for at least six months from your date of entry into Malawi. Many sources list this as a requirement.
Additionally, your passport should have at least two blank pages for stamps or endorsements.
As a traveller from Belarus: check the expiry date on your passport, make sure it’s beyond six months at time of arrival, and that you’ve got blank pages. If your passport is soon expiring or has very few blank pages, consider renewing it first.
Are there health/vaccination requirements (e.g., yellow fever) for Malawi entry?
Yes, there are health and vaccination requirements you should be aware of when entering Malawi:
If you arrive from or have travelled through a yellow fever-endemic country, you must present a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate.
Even if yellow fever isn’t required, other vaccinations are recommended: hepatitis A & B, typhoid, meningitis, routine vaccinations (MMR, DPT, flu) and malaria prophylaxis (since Malawi is a malaria risk area) are wise.
Travel health insurance is strongly advised.
Always check the latest updates from health authorities in Belarus or Malawi before you travel.
In other words: unless you come from a yellow-fever zone you may not need the certificate, but it’s best practice to get the relevant shots and carry proof.
Is there a visa-on-arrival option for Malawi and is it available for Belarus nationals?
Yes — Malawi does have a visa-on-arrival or “eVisa on arrival” style option, but it comes with caveats and may not be the smoothest path. According to an information source:
Visa on arrival (VoA) is available at designated entry points: e.g., Lilongwe airport, Blantyre airport, some land borders.
However it may require payment in cash (US dollars) at the border, there may be longer processing time, and it’s less predictable than applying online ahead of time.
For Belarus nationals: since you can apply online and get the eVisa in advance, that is strongly recommended. Relying on visa on arrival means you accept potential delays, higher charge, or even denial.
Also: visa on arrival may not be available at all entry points or for all nationalities, so verifying your entry port matters.
Bottom line: yes there is a visa-on-arrival option, but from Belarus it makes more sense to apply for the eVisa ahead of travel for convenience and certainty.
How to check status of my Malawi eVisa application?
Keeping a check on your Malawi eVisa application status is important. Here’s how to do it:
After submission, you will receive an email confirming your application and payment.
You can log into your account on the Malawi eVisa portal and check your application status online (pending, approved, rejected).
If approved, you download the approval letter/eVisa. If rejected, you may see the status and then revise and reapply.
If you haven’t heard anything after the expected processing time (e.g., 6-9 working days), it is wise to contact the support email listed on the portal.
So: log in, check status, keep your email notifications, and print/download the final document when approved.
Are the visa fees refundable if the application is rejected?
No, the fee is non-refundable if your Malawi eVisa application is rejected.
That means you must make sure your application is as accurate and complete as possible before paying and submitting.
Can I use a debit/credit card from Belarus to pay? (international payments)
Yes — you can use a debit or credit card issued in Belarus, as long as it supports international online payments (particularly USD-denominated payments) and is accepted by the eVisa portal.
Here are some tips:
Make sure your card network (Visa/MasterCard) is supported by the portal. The portal mentions these networks.
Make sure your bank has enabled international payments / foreign currency online usage.
Check that your card’s online payment authorisation and security (e.g., 3-D Secure) are current. Some users report issues with older secure systems.
Ensure you have sufficient funds and that exchange rates and any bank charges are acceptable.
After payment, save the payment receipt and screenshot of success in case you need to show proof.
In short: yes, using a Belarus card is fine, just verify the card supports the required payment parameters and works for USD/foreign payments.
What is the difference between eVisa and Visa on Arrival in Malawi?
Here’s how they differ and why the eVisa option is usually better:
eVisa (online, before travel):
You apply online from Belarus, upload documents, pay, receive approval ahead of time.
Once approved you travel with your printed eVisa and passport—you know in advance you’re permitted entry (subject to final immigration check).
Typically smoother, less risk at the border, fewer surprises.
Payment is made online, convenience is higher.
Visa on Arrival (VoA):
You arrive in Malawi at certain entry points and apply there.
May involve longer processing at border, possibly cash payment in US dollars only.
Limited to certain entry points and may not be available for all nationalities or purposes.
Risk that you’ll be delayed or even refused entry if documentation/travel purpose isn’t clearly established.
For a traveller from Belarus, the online eVisa route is highly advisable for ease, reliability and predictability.
What happens if I overstay my Malawi visa? (penalties)
Overstaying your permitted time in Malawi can lead to penalties and complications. According to travel-advice sources:
If you stay beyond the expiry of your visa (or beyond the time approved), you may be required to pay an overstay fine (reported figures are in USD per day).
Additionally you may be subject to deportation, restrictions on re-entry, or additional checks at the border when leaving Malawi.
Always ensure you depart Malawi before your visa or permitted stay expires, or apply early for an extension if you need extra time.
In practise: keep track of your permitted stay, set a reminder for when you must leave, and if you need more time, apply for an extension before expiry.
Travel Tips
Here are some practical travel tips to make your Malawi journey smoother:
Apply early. Don’t leave your eVisa application until the last minute. Give yourself at least a week (ideally more) for any delays.
Use good quality scans/uploads. Clear passport image, good photo, correct file formats—poor quality uploads can delay approval.
Print your eVisa approval. Digital copy is good, but carry a printed copy and keep a backup on your phone.
Check your passport validity and blank pages. Make sure you have at least six months validity and two blank pages in your passport.
Have travel insurance. Especially because Malawi is a country where healthcare access can be tricky, and there’s malaria risk.
Vaccinations & health check. Get your shots, carry certificates (especially yellow fever if required), bring insect repellent/anti-malaria measures.
Budget for unknowns. Even with eVisa approved, immigration officers decide entry—carry supporting documents (proof of funds, accommodation).
Be aware of overstay rules. Note the last date you must leave, or apply for extension before that date.
Keep copies of all documents. Passport page, eVisa, payment receipts, travel itinerary.
Respect local laws & culture. Malawi is a welcoming country but may have different customs—respect them.
Malawi eVisa FAQs
Q: Can I apply from Belarus?
A: Yes—you can apply online from anywhere, including Belarus, provided you have the required documents and international payment method.
Q: How soon can I travel after approval?
A: Once approved and you’ve downloaded your eVisa, you can travel—just ensure you arrive within the validity window and carry the printed copy.
Q: Can I pick the date of entry?
A: You’ll indicate your travel plans in the application, but the key is that you must enter Malawi within the visa validity period (from date of issue). The actual date of entry is yours to choose within that window.
Q: Do I need to apply for each person travelling?
A: Yes—each traveller must submit an independent application with their own passport details, photo and documents.
Q: What happens if I make a mistake on the application?
A: If incorrect details are submitted, it could delay or lead to rejection. If rejected, you can reapply. The fee is non-refundable though, so double-check everything.
Q: Can I stay longer than 30 days?
A: Depending on your visa type, you may have stays up to 30 days (tourist) or longer (business/ multiple entry). If you need more time, apply for extension before you overstay.