Tanzania Travel Visa Guide
Tanzania Travel Visa Guide, Everything You Need to Know Before You Go.
Planning a trip to Tanzania, whether for a safari in the Serengeti, a hike up Mount Kilimanjaro, or a relaxing beach escape in Zanzibar — starts with getting your travel documents in order.
One of the most common questions travelers ask is: “Do I need a visa to enter Tanzania?”
This guide walks you through everything you need to know about Tanzania’s visa requirements, types of visas, the application process, and some practical tips to make your entry smooth and stress-free.
Do You Need a Visa to Visit Tanzania?
In most cases, yes.
Citizens from the majority of countries- including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and most of Europe-require a visa to enter Tanzania.
However, a few countries within the East African Community (EAC) and select others have visa-free access for short stays. If you’re unsure whether your country qualifies for visa exemption, it’s always best to check the official Tanzanian immigration website or contact the nearest Tanzanian embassy before traveling.
Types of Visas for Tanzania.
Tanzania offers several types of visas, depending on the purpose and duration of your visit.
Here are the most common ones for tourists and travelers:
1. Ordinary (Tourist) Visa.
This is the most common visa for leisure travel, safaris, beach holidays, or visiting friends and family.
- Validity: 90 days (single entry)
- Cost: USD 50 for most nationalities
- Processing Time: 3–10 working days (online)
You can use this visa to explore both mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar.
2. Multiple-Entry Visa.
Designed for visitors who plan to enter and exit Tanzania several times within a year – for example, those traveling between Kenya and Tanzania for safari extensions.
- Validity: Up to 12 months
- Cost: USD 100 (mainly for U.S. citizens)
- Condition: Each stay cannot exceed 90 days per visit
3. Transit Visa.
If you’re just passing through Tanzania on your way to another country and your stay is less than 7 days, a transit visa is what you need.
- Validity: Up to 7 days
- Cost: USD 30
- Requirement: Must show proof of onward travel
4. Business Visa.
If you’re visiting Tanzania for short-term business meetings, conferences, or temporary work, you can apply for a business visa.
- Validity: 90 days
- Cost: USD 250
- Requirement: Official letter from your company or partner organization in Tanzania
How to Apply for a Tanzania Visa.
Tanzania has made the visa process simple and straightforward. You have two main options:
1. Apply Online (Recommended)
The Tanzania e-Visa system allows you to apply before your trip and receive approval electronically.
- Visit the official government website: https://visa.immigration.go.tz/
- Fill out the online form and upload the required documents (passport copy, photo, and return flight details)
- Pay securely online with Visa or MasterCard
- Once approved, download and print your e-Visa approval to show upon arrival
Processing time: Usually between 3–10 business days.
It’s best to apply at least two weeks before your trip, just to be safe.
2. Visa on Arrival
Travelers who don’t apply online can still get a visa upon arrival at major entry points such as:
- Julius Nyerere International Airport (Dar es Salaam)
- Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
- Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (Zanzibar)
- Official land borders between Kenya, Uganda, and Malawi
The process is straightforward but can involve waiting in line, especially during busy travel seasons.
You’ll fill out a short form, pay the fee in USD cash, and receive your visa stamp on the spot.
Entry Requirements at the Airport or Border.
To enter Tanzania smoothly, make sure you have:
- A passport valid for at least six months from your arrival date
- At least one blank visa page in your passport
- Proof of return or onward travel
- (Optional) A printed copy of your accommodation booking or safari itinerary
Sometimes, immigration officers may ask for proof of sufficient funds for your stay, though this is rare for tourists.
Visa Extensions.
If you fall in love with Tanzania, which many travelers do — and want to stay longer, you can apply for a visa extension.
This can be done at the Immigration Office in Dar es Salaam, Arusha, or Zanzibar.
Extensions are typically granted for up to another 90 days, depending on your visa type.
Special Notes for Zanzibar Visitors.
Although Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous region, it shares the same visa policy as mainland Tanzania.
If you enter Tanzania through Zanzibar, your visa covers both destinations — you don’t need a separate one.
Health and Vaccination Requirements.
- Yellow Fever: Travelers coming from or transiting through countries with a risk of yellow fever must show a vaccination certificate upon arrival.
- COVID-19: As of recent updates, Tanzania has lifted most COVID entry restrictions, but it’s best to check for the latest guidelines before traveling.
- Always have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, especially if you’ll be going on safari or climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.
Final Travel Tips.
- Apply for your visa early to avoid last-minute stress.
- Keep your printed e-Visa or approval letter handy during check-in and arrival.
- Always carry some cash in USD for visa fees or emergencies — preferably new, undamaged bills printed after 2009.
- If you’re entering Tanzania multiple times during your trip (e.g., combining Kenya & Tanzania safaris), consider a multiple-entry visa
In Summary
Getting a Tanzania visa is straightforward — and once you step foot in this incredible country, you’ll see it’s worth every bit of planning.
Whether you’re here for a once-in-a-lifetime safari, the white sands of Zanzibar, or the adventure of Kilimanjaro, Tanzania welcomes you with open arms and warm smiles.
Travel smart, get your visa sorted, and let the journey begin!
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