Tanzania Visa Application
Before traveling to Tanzania, most visitors will need to apply for a visa. The visa process is straightforward, and there are multiple ways to apply depending on your nationality and travel plans. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the Tanzania visa application process, including the types of visas available, required documents, fees, and how to apply.
Who Needs a Visa for Tanzania?
Most foreign nationals require a visa to enter Tanzania, whether for tourism, business, or volunteering. However, citizens from a few select countries are visa-exempt.
| Visa-Exempt Countries | Details |
|---|---|
| East African Community (EAC) Citizens | Nationals of Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi do not need a visa to enter Tanzania. |
| Other Visa-Exempt Countries | Citizens of Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Malawi are also exempt. |
For all other nationalities, a visa is required for entry into Tanzania.
Types of Tanzanian Visas
There are several types of visas available for different purposes, so it’s important to choose the one that suits your travel needs.
| Visa Type | Who It’s For | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa (Ordinary Visa) | Travelers visiting for tourism, leisure, or short-term visits. | Single-entry visa valid for 90 days. |
| Multiple Entry Visa | Frequent travelers, businesspersons, or those with family in Tanzania. | Valid for 1 year, with each entry limited to 90 days. |
| Transit Visa | Travelers passing through Tanzania en route to another destination. | Valid for up to 7 days. |
| Business Visa | Travelers visiting for short-term business activities (meetings, conferences, etc.). | Valid for up to 90 days. |
| Volunteer Visa | Individuals volunteering with organizations or charities in Tanzania. | Valid for up to 90 days. |
Key Points:
- Tourist visas are the most common and allow for single entry, while multiple entry visas are ideal for frequent travelers.
- Transit visas are best if you’re stopping over in Tanzania en route to another country.
How to Apply for a Tanzanian Visa
There are three primary ways to apply for a Tanzanian visa: online (e-visa), on arrival, or through a Tanzanian embassy or consulate.
A. E-Visa (Online Application)
The e-visa system is the most convenient way to apply for a Tanzanian visa before your trip. This option allows you to complete the entire process online.
| Steps to Apply for an E-Visa | Details |
|---|---|
| 1. Visit the Official Website | Go to https://eservices.immigration.go.tz/visa/. |
| 2. Complete the Application Form | Fill in your personal details, passport information, and travel itinerary. |
| 3. Upload Required Documents | Upload a scanned copy of your passport, a passport-sized photo, and any additional documents like flight itineraries. |
| 4. Pay the Visa Fee | Pay the visa fee online using a credit or debit card (see fee table below). |
| 5. Wait for Approval | You’ll receive an email notification once your visa is approved. Processing usually takes 2–10 business days. |
| 6. Print the E-Visa | Print a copy of your approved visa and present it at the border upon arrival. |
B. Visa on Arrival
For travelers who don’t apply online, Tanzania offers a visa-on-arrival option. You can obtain a visa at most major entry points, including international airports and land borders.
| Steps to Get a Visa on Arrival | Details |
|---|---|
| 1. Arrive at a Port of Entry | Available at airports like Julius Nyerere (Dar es Salaam), Kilimanjaro, and Zanzibar. |
| 2. Fill Out the Visa Form | Complete a visa application form at the immigration desk. |
| 3. Pay the Visa Fee | Payment is made in USD, usually in cash. Credit cards may be accepted, but it’s best to carry cash just in case. |
| 4. Receive the Visa | Your passport will be stamped with a visa once the process is complete. Expect possible wait times. |
C. Embassy or Consulate Application
If you prefer, you can apply for a visa at a Tanzanian embassy or consulate in your home country.
| Steps to Apply at an Embassy | Details |
|---|---|
| 1. Visit the Embassy/Consulate | Submit your application in person at a Tanzanian embassy or consulate. |
| 2. Provide Required Documents | Bring your passport, application form, passport photos, and other required documents. |
| 3. Pay the Visa Fee | Payment methods vary depending on the consulate (cash, card, or money order). |
| 4. Collect Your Visa | Processing times vary but typically take a few days to a week. |
Key Points:
- The e-visa is the most convenient option, allowing you to apply before you arrive.
- Visa on arrival is available at major airports and borders, but expect potential wait times.
- Embassy applications can take longer but may be preferred if you need to discuss visa details with officials.
Documents Required for a Tanzanian Visa
When applying for a Tanzanian visa, you will need to provide the following documents:
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| Valid Passport | Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended entry date. |
| Passport-Sized Photo | A recent photo, typically 2 inches by 2 inches. |
| Return Flight Ticket | Proof of onward or return travel from Tanzania. |
| Proof of Accommodation | Hotel booking or letter from a host in Tanzania. |
| Visa Fee Payment | Payment for the visa fee (online or on arrival). |
| Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate | Required if arriving from a yellow fever-endemic country. |
Key Points:
- Ensure that your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your date of entry.
- You may be asked to show proof of return flights and accommodation during the visa application process.
Visa Fees for Tanzania
The visa fees vary depending on your nationality and the type of visa you are applying for.
| Visa Type | Cost (USD) | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| Single Entry Tourist Visa | $50 | Valid for 90 days. |
| Multiple Entry Visa | $100 – $250 | Valid for 1 year. |
| Transit Visa | $30 | Valid for up to 7 days. |
| Business Visa | $250 | Valid for up to 90 days. |
Key Points:
- The tourist visa typically costs $50 for a single entry.
- US citizens applying for a multiple entry visa may pay $100, while some other nationalities may pay up to $250.
Visa Processing Time
Visa processing times depend on the method of application:
| Application Method | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| E-Visa | 2 to 10 business days |
| Visa on Arrival | Immediate, but may require wait times at the airport or border. |
| Embassy/Consulate | 3 to 7 business days |
Key Points:
- E-visas generally take 2 to 10 business days to process.
- Visa on arrival is processed immediately, but be prepared for potential delays, especially during peak travel times.
Entry Requirements and Customs Regulations
In addition to a valid visa, travelers must meet the following entry requirements when arriving in Tanzania:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Passport Validity | Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your entry date. |
| Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate | Required if traveling from or transiting through a yellow fever-endemic country. |
| Customs Regulations | Personal items are duty-free, but certain items like ivory, drugs, and firearms are prohibited. |
Key Points:
- A yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory if you are arriving from a country with yellow fever risk.
- Familiarize yourself with customs regulations to avoid bringing in prohibited items.
Extending Your Visa
If you need to stay longer than the duration allowed by your visa, you can apply for an extension.
| How to Extend | Details |
|---|---|
| Where to Apply | Visa extensions can be requested at Immigration Offices in major cities like Dar es Salaam or Arusha. |
| Extension Length | Typically allows for an additional 90 days. |
| Fees | The extension fee varies depending on the visa type. |
Key Points:
- Extensions are available for most visas, but you must apply before your current visa expires.
- The extension is typically for up to 90 additional days.
Obtaining a visa for Tanzania is a straightforward process, with several application methods available to suit your needs. Whether you apply for an e-visa, visa on arrival, or through an embassy, ensure that you have all the required documents and meet the necessary entry requirements. With proper planning, you can ensure a smooth entry into Tanzania and focus on enjoying your safari or other travel adventures in this incredible country.