Do I Need a Visa for Tanzania Travel?

Tanzania requires a visa for most foreign nationals except citizens of a select few countries. Travelers from countries in the East African Community (EAC) and certain Commonwealth countries may be exempt from the visa requirement. However, citizens from North America, Europe, Asia, Australia, and many African countries must obtain a visa before entry or on arrival.

Visa-Exempt Countries

Here are some examples of countries whose nationals do NOT need a visa for short stays in Tanzania: Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda,Burundi,Zimbabwe, Namibia,Hong Kong,Malaysia and Singapore.

Note: Visa exemptions generally apply for visits up to 90 days. For longer stays or other purposes, a visa will be required.

Travelers Require a Visa

For most travelers—including those from the USA, Canada, EU countries, Australia, and many Asian nations—a visa is mandatory. Tanzania’s visa policy is straightforward, and the process has become even easier with the introduction of the e-visa system.

Countries That MUST Obtain a Referral Visa

Some nationalities cannot get a visa on arrival or online. Instead, they need special clearance (Referral Visa) from Tanzanian authorities before traveling. Examples include: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Chad, Pakistan, Nigeria, Sri Lanka, Syria, Yemen. Refer to the official Tanzania Immigration website for a full and updated list.

Tanzania offers several types of visas based on your purpose of visit. Choosing the right one is essential for a smooth entry.

• Ordinary Visa (Single Entry Visa): This is the most common Tanzania visa type for tourists and business visitors. It allows; Single entry, Valid for 90 days ,For tourism, holidays, family visits, study (short-term), attending conferences, or humanitarian activities

• Multiple Entry Visa: Intended for frequent travelers, especially those who need to enter Tanzania several times within a year. You can apply for this visa if you have business links, family, or government assignments in Tanzania. Multiple entries, Valid for 1 year, Each stay cannot exceed 90 days

• Transit Visa: If you’re transiting through Tanzania to another destination and need to leave the airport or stay up to 7 days, you must obtain a transit visa.

• Student Visa: For students who plan to study in Tanzania for a defined period. Supporting documents from the Tanzanian educational institution are required.

• Business Visa: Business visas are for short-term work, meetings, or professional assignments lasting up to 90 days.

• Gratis Visa: Diplomats and government officials may be eligible for a gratis (free) visa based on reciprocal agreements.

There are three main ways to apply for a Tanzania visa in 2024. The process you choose may depend on your nationality, convenience, and travel plans.

E-Visa (Online Visa Application)

Tanzania’s official e-visa system is the most convenient method for most tourists and business travelers. You can apply from anywhere in the world.

How to Apply for a Tanzania E-Visa:

• Go to the Official Portal: Tanzania Immigration Department’s e-visa website
• Create an Account: Register using your email address.
• Fill in the Application: Provide travel details, passport information, and upload required documents (photo, passport copy, flight tickets, hotel bookings).
• Pay the Visa Fee: Use secure online payment options (Visa, MasterCard, etc.).
• Track and Download: Wait for online approval via email (often within 10 working days). Print the approval and carry it with you.
• Tip: Apply for the e-visa at least 2 weeks before your trip.

Visa on Arrival

Most nationalities who are not on the Referral Visa list can obtain a visa on arrival at major entry points:

• Julius Nyerere International Airport (Dar es Salaam)
• Kilimanjaro International Airport
• Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (Zanzibar)
• Border crossings (e.g. Namanga)

Process:

• Join the visa-on-arrival queue
• Fill out the arrival card
• Pay the visa fee (USD cash preferred)
• Receive visa stamp in your passport

Note: Queues can be long and processing slower than with the e-visa. We recommend applying online when possible.

Embassy or Consulate Application

If you prefer, or if your nationality requires a referral visa, you may apply in person at a Tanzanian embassy or consulate in your home country. It’s advisable if you need a multiple-entry visa or for long-term stays.

You will need the following for most tourist or business visa applications:

• Valid Passport: At least 6 months validity from your planned date of entry
• Recent Passport-Size Photo
• Completed Visa Application Form (online or paper)
• Travel Itinerary: Flight bookings or travel plans
• Proof of Accommodation: Hotel or guesthouse bookings, or invitation letter from your Tanzanian host
• Visa Fee Payment
• Supporting Documents: For business, student, or other specific visas (invitation letters, work permits, etc.)

Additional documents may be requested based on your nationality or special circumstances.

Visa fees depend on the type of visa and applicant’s nationality. Here are the typical costs:

• Single Entry (E-visa or Visa on Arrival): $50 USD
• Multiple Entry Visa: $100 USD
• Transit Visa: $30 USD
• Business Visa: $250 USD

Note: Some countries (e.g., USA) are required to apply for multiple entry visas only, which cost $100 USD. All fees are payable in US dollars. It is recommended to carry clean notes if paying on arrival.

Understanding and preparing your visa ensures smooth entry into Tanzania. Here are additional tips:

• Check the Latest Requirements: Tanzania’s visa policies can change with little notice—especially in the wake of global events like health crises. Always cross-verify current entry requirements with the official Tanzania immigration website close to your travel date.

• Passport Validity: Most airlines will not allow you to board if your passport has less than 6 months validity beyond your intended departure date from Tanzania. Make sure your passport is up to date.

• Proof of Return or Onward Travel: Immigration officers may ask to see proof of a return ticket (or onward travel) and sufficient funds to cover your stay.

• Yellow Fever Certificate: If you are arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission, you must present a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate upon entry.

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