Tanzania Visa Requirement

Tanzania Visa Requirements: What You Need to Know

Traveling to Tanzania requires most visitors to obtain a visa, whether for tourism, business, or other purposes. The visa requirements can vary depending on your nationality, the purpose of your visit, and the duration of your stay. This guide provides comprehensive information on the different types of visas, the application process, and the documents you need to enter Tanzania.

Who Needs a Visa to Enter Tanzania?

Most travelers, including tourists, will need a visa to enter Tanzania. However, a few countries are exempt from visa requirements for short stays. Additionally, nationals from certain countries may require a referral visa, which involves getting approval before arriving in Tanzania.

Countries Exempt from a Visa

Citizens of the following countries do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days:

• Kenya
• Uganda
• Rwanda
• Burundi
• Malawi
• Zimbabwe
• Namibia
• Botswana
• Zambia
• Hong Kong (SAR)
• Macao (SAR)

If you’re from one of these countries, you can enter Tanzania visa-free for short-term visits.

Countries Requiring a Referral Visa

Nationals from certain countries must apply for a referral visa, meaning they need pre-approval from the Commissioner General of Immigration or the Commissioner of Immigration Services before being issued a visa. This includes countries like:

• Afghanistan
• Bangladesh
• Chad
• Lebanon
• Nigeria
• Pakistan
• Somalia
• Syria
• Yemen

Check with your local Tanzanian embassy or consulate to confirm the referral visa process.

Types of Tanzanian Visas

There are several types of visas available depending on your purpose of travel:

How to Apply for a Tanzania Visa

There are three main ways to obtain a visa for Tanzania:

1. eVisa (Online Visa)
2. Visa on Arrival
3. Visa at a Tanzanian Embassy/Consulate

1. eVisa (Online Visa)

Tanzania has an eVisa system that allows travelers to apply for their visa online before arriving. The eVisa is valid for single entry and multiple entry visas, and it’s the most convenient method for most travelers.

Steps to Apply for an eVisa:

1. Visit the Official eVisa Website: Tanzania Immigration eVisa Portal
2. Complete the Application Form: Fill in your personal details, travel information, and the purpose of your visit.
3. Upload Required Documents: Passport photo, passport bio-data page, and other relevant documents (see below for details).
4. Pay the Visa Fee: Payments are made online using a credit/debit card or bank transfer.
5. Receive the Visa: The processing time is typically 10 business days, and you will receive your eVisa by email. Print the visa and carry it with you when traveling to Tanzania.

eVisa Fees:

• Single-entry visa: $50
• Multiple-entry visa: $100
• Transit visa: $30

2. Visa on Arrival

Travelers from most countries can also obtain a visa on arrival at Tanzanian entry points, including international airports (Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar) and border crossings. However, the visa on arrival process can involve long queues, so it’s recommended to apply for an eVisa beforehand if possible.

Visa on Arrival Fees:

• Single-entry visa: $50
• US Citizens: $100 (for a multiple-entry visa)

To obtain a visa on arrival, you will need:

• A valid passport (with at least six months’ validity from the date of entry).
• Visa fee (preferably in USD).
• Completed visa application form (available at the airport or border).

3. Visa from a Tanzanian Embassy/Consulate

If you’re more comfortable applying in person, or your country requires a referral visa, you can visit the nearest Tanzanian embassy or consulate to apply for your visa. This is also an option for long-term visas, such as student or business visas.

Documents Required for a Tanzania Visa

Regardless of whether you’re applying online, at the airport, or at an embassy, you’ll need to provide certain documents:

Additional documents may be required for business, student, or referral visas.

Visa Processing Times

• eVisa: 10 business days.
• Visa on Arrival: Immediate, but lines can be long at major airports.
• Embassy/Consulate: Varies by location, but typically 1-2 weeks.

Visa Extensions

If you wish to extend your stay in Tanzania, you can apply for a visa extension at the Immigration Office in Dar es Salaam, Arusha, or Zanzibar. Tourist visas can typically be extended for an additional 90 days, but the total stay in Tanzania should not exceed 180 days in a 12-month period.

Special Considerations

Zanzibar Entry Requirements

Zanzibar is part of Tanzania, so the visa you obtain for Tanzania also covers entry to Zanzibar. If you’re flying directly into Zanzibar, you will still need to follow the same visa requirements as for mainland Tanzania.

Yellow Fever Vaccination

A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required if you are entering Tanzania from a country with a yellow fever risk. This includes many African and South American countries. If you’re flying directly from non-risk countries (like the US or Europe), a yellow fever certificate is typically not required.

Obtaining a visa for Tanzania is a straightforward process, with most travelers having the option of an eVisa or a visa on arrival. It’s essential to check the specific requirements for your nationality and to ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your entry date. Whether you’re traveling for a safari, business, or a cultural visit, having the proper visa ensures a smooth entry into this beautiful country.

If you have any more questions or need assistance with your visa application, feel free to reach out! Safe travels!