Tanzania Visa Requirement
Tanzanian Visa Requirements
If you’re planning a trip to Tanzania, understanding the visa requirements is essential. Depending on your nationality, purpose of visit, and length of stay, you may need to apply for a visa in advance or obtain one upon arrival. This guide provides a detailed overview of visa types, application processes, and associated fees to help you prepare for your trip.
Who Needs a Visa to Enter Tanzania?
Most travelers require a visa to enter Tanzania, including those visiting the island of Zanzibar. However, some countries are exempt from visa requirements, while others can enter Tanzania visa-free or obtain a visa on arrival.
| Country/Region | Visa Requirement |
|---|---|
| United States, United Kingdom, Canada, EU Countries | Visa is required for entry. |
| East African Community (Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi) | No visa is required for stays up to 90 days. |
| Visa-Exempt Countries | Nationals from countries such as Hong Kong, Namibia, and Malaysia can enter visa-free for short stays (up to 90 days). |
Key Notes:
- Zanzibar: Zanzibar follows the same visa rules as mainland Tanzania, so a visa for Tanzania is valid for both.
- Transit Travelers: Travelers passing through Tanzania without leaving the airport or staying for less than 12 hours typically do not require a visa.
Types of Tanzanian Visas
The type of visa you need depends on the purpose of your visit. Below is a table outlining the main visa categories and their uses.
| Visa Type | Purpose | Validity | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa (Single-Entry) | For leisure, visiting friends or family, or short-term business visits | Up to 90 days | The most common visa for tourists. |
| Multiple-Entry Visa | For frequent travelers, such as businesspeople or family visits | Up to 12 months | Multiple entries allowed, with a maximum stay of 90 days per entry. |
| Transit Visa | For travelers passing through Tanzania en route to another destination | Up to 7 days | You must provide proof of onward travel to a third country. |
| Business Visa | For attending conferences, meetings, or short-term business | Up to 90 days | Does not permit employment in Tanzania. |
| Student/Research Visa | For students or researchers engaged in academic programs or fieldwork | Based on the duration of the study or research | Requires proof of enrollment or a research project. |
| Visa on Arrival | For eligible nationalities who can obtain their visa upon entering Tanzania | Up to 90 days | Available at major airports and land borders. |
How to Apply for a Tanzanian Visa
You can apply for a Tanzanian visa in two main ways: online via the e-Visa system or upon arrival.
A. e-Visa Application
The e-Visa system allows travelers to apply for their visa online and receive it before arriving in Tanzania.
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| 1. Create an Account | Register for an account on the official Tanzanian e-Visa website. |
| 2. Complete the Application | Fill in personal details, travel information, and the purpose of your visit. |
| 3. Upload Required Documents | Upload a copy of your passport, a passport-sized photo, and any necessary supporting documents (e.g., an invitation letter for a business visa). |
| 4. Pay the Visa Fee | Pay the required fee online using a credit/debit card. |
| 5. Wait for Approval | Visa processing takes 2-7 business days. |
| 6. Print the e-Visa | Once approved, print the e-visa confirmation and present it upon arrival in Tanzania. |
B. Visa on Arrival
If you are from a country eligible for a visa on arrival, you can obtain your visa at the airport or land border when entering Tanzania. Here’s how it works:
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| 1. Arrive at the Airport or Border | Available at major entry points like Kilimanjaro International Airport, Dar es Salaam Airport, and Zanzibar Airport. |
| 2. Fill Out a Visa Form | Complete the visa application form upon arrival. |
| 3. Pay the Visa Fee | Pay the visa fee in U.S. dollars (cash or credit card accepted). |
| 4. Receive Visa Stamp | Immigration officers will stamp your passport, allowing entry for up to 90 days. |
Tanzanian Visa Fees
Visa fees vary depending on the type of visa and your nationality. Below is a breakdown of the standard fees for common visa types:
| Visa Type | Fee (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa (Single-Entry) | $50 | U.S. citizens are charged $100 for a single-entry visa. |
| Multiple-Entry Visa | $100 | Generally issued for business travelers. |
| Transit Visa | $30 | For travelers passing through Tanzania. |
| Business Visa | $250 | Required for conducting short-term business activities. |
| Visa on Arrival | $50 | Payable upon arrival at major airports and border posts. |
Documents Required for a Tanzanian Visa
When applying for a Tanzanian visa, whether online or on arrival, you will need to provide the following documents:
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| Passport | Must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry and have at least one blank page for the visa stamp. |
| Passport-Sized Photo | A recent photograph was taken within the last 6 months. |
| Flight Itinerary | A copy of your flight details, including your return or onward journey. |
| Accommodation Details | Proof of accommodation in Tanzania, such as a hotel booking confirmation. |
| Visa Fee Payment | Payment receipt (for online applications) or cash/card for visa on arrival. |
Tanzanian Visa Processing Time
Processing times vary depending on the method of application:
| Application Method | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| e-Visa | 2-7 business days |
| Visa on Arrival | Immediate (processed at the airport/border upon entry) |
Tanzanian Visa Extensions
If you wish to extend your stay beyond the initial visa period, you can apply for a visa extension at the Tanzanian Immigration Headquarters in Dar es Salaam, Arusha, or Zanzibar.
| Extension Type | Validity | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa Extension | Additional 3 months | May extend up to a total of 6 months. Must apply before the original visa expires. |
| Business Visa Extension | Additional 3 months | The application must be submitted with valid business reasons and supporting documents. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I work in Tanzania with a tourist or business visa?
No, neither a tourist nor a business visa allows you to work in Tanzania. You will need a work permit or a special employment visa to work legally in the country.
Q2: How long can I stay in Tanzania with a visa on arrival?
With a visa on arrival, you can stay for up to 90 days, depending on the type of visa you request.
Q3: Can I enter Zanzibar with a Tanzanian visa?
Yes, a Tanzanian visa allows you to travel freely between mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar.
Q4: What happens if my visa expires while I’m still in Tanzania?
Overstaying your visa in Tanzania is illegal and can result in fines or deportation. It’s important to apply for an extension before your visa expires.
Understanding Tanzanian visa requirements is crucial for a smooth entry into the country. Whether applying online via the e-Visa system or obtaining a visa on arrival, ensure you have the correct documentation, know the costs, and meet all visa conditions for a hassle-free visit. Planning ahead will allow you to focus on enjoying the incredible wildlife, stunning landscapes, and rich culture that Tanzania Safari has to offer!
Tour Destinations
Tanzania is home to some of Africa's most renowned safari destinations, each offering unique landscapes, abundant wildlife, and unforgettable experiences
Serengeti National Park
Covering an expansive area of approximately 14,750 square kilometers (5,700 square miles), the park is renowned for its stunning landscapes, incredible biodiversity, and the annual Great Migration of wildebeest and zebras
Kilimanjaro National Park
The park boasts diverse ecosystems ranging from lush rainforests to alpine deserts. Visitors can encounter a variety of wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, and monkeys, as well as unique flora like the giant groundsels and lobelias that are adapted to the high-altitude environment
Ngorongoro Conservation Area
The Ngorongoro Crater is renowned for its rich biodiversity and dense wildlife populations. The crater floor is home to approximately 25,000 large animals, including the Big Five: lions, elephants, leopards, buffaloes, and rhinos
Lake Manyara National Park
One of the park's main attractions is its abundant wildlife. Lake Manyara National Park is famous for its tree-climbing lions, a rare behavior that adds a unique charm to the safari experience
Tarangire National Park
Tarangire is famed for its large elephant herds, which can number in the hundreds. The park's varied landscapes, including grasslands, swamps, and baobab-dotted plains, support a diverse range of wildlife
Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park, located in northern Tanzania, is a small but diverse park that offers a variety of ecosystems and stunning landscapes. Covering approximately 137 square kilometers (53 square miles)
Top Pick Tanzania Tour Packages For You
Tanzania boasts Africa’s renowned parks, promising unforgettable luxury safaris. With expertly crafted itineraries, immerse yourself in the finest national parks for a tailored wildlife adventure.