Tanzania

Your Essential Gateway to Tanzania: Visa Requirements Made Simple

If you're planning to experience Tanzania's breathtaking Serengeti wildlife, conduct business in Dar es Salaam, or pursue educational opportunities at the University of Dar es Salaam, understanding visa requirements is your crucial first step toward a successful journey.

Tanzania maintains a selective visa policy requiring most international visitors to obtain proper documentation before arrival. The country issues six types of visas for various purposes: Ordinary (single entry) visas at 50 USD valid for up to 90 days, Multiple entry visas at 100 USD valid for 1 year, Business visas, Student visas, Transit visas, and Gratis visas. Visa on arrival remains available at official entry points for most eligible nationalities, but the Immigration Department recommends applying online for an eVisa in advance for faster processing.

Key Traveler Categories Requiring Visas:

• Tourism: Safari adventures, cultural exploration, family visits, conferences, and leisure activities requiring Ordinary Visa (50 USD for 90 days)
• Business: Commercial meetings, professional assignments, and trade activities not exceeding three months
• Transit: Connection flights through major airports for periods not exceeding seven days
• Study: Educational programs, research, internships, and volunteering, with fees ranging from 50 USD for programs under 90 days to between 250 and 550 USD for longer academic programs

Visa applications are processed within ten days, except for referral visa categories which require special clearance from the Commissioner General of Immigration. American nationals holding USA passports are not entitled to Ordinary Visa and must apply for Multiple Visa even if planning single entry. You will need a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your date of entry, proof of accommodation, return flight tickets, at least one blank passport page, and a recent passport photograph. Visitors must also be prepared to demonstrate sufficient funds for their stay.

Located in East Africa with access to Mount Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar's pristine beaches, Tanzania offers extraordinary experiences that demand careful preparation. If you wish to visit both Tanzania Mainland and Zanzibar, select your first destination while filling the form, but you will be allowed to visit both places without a need for a new visa. Note two recent changes: since 1 October 2024 all foreign visitors to Zanzibar must purchase mandatory local travel insurance in addition to their visa, and from January 2026 a similar 44 USD insurance requirement applies to arrivals in Mainland Tanzania.

Most travelers need a visa to enter Tanzania. However, several African nations enjoy visa-free access, and many nationalities can obtain visas on arrival or online through the eVisa system.

Visa-Free Entry

Citizens of the following countries and regions can enter Tanzania without a visa:

• East African Community: Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan (visa-free entry under EAC arrangements)
• African countries: Most SADC member states, including Botswana, Mozambique, and Namibia, for up to 90 days
• Commonwealth countries: Including Malawi, Zambia, and Zimbabwe for tourism purposes
• Special arrangements: Diplomatic passport holders from various countries

Visa on Arrival

Visa on arrival is available at major entry points including Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro International Airport, and land borders. Fees vary by nationality:

• United States citizens - $100 USD (multiple entry visa valid for 12 months)
• European Union countries, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Canada - $50 USD (single entry)
• Most other eligible nationalities - $50 USD (single entry)
• Transit visa - $30 USD (stays up to 7 days)

Payment is accepted in USD cash. Credit cards may be available but are not reliably accepted at all entry points. Applying for an eVisa online before travel is recommended to avoid queues, especially during peak season from June through October.

Essential Requirements

• Passport validity: Minimum 6 months from entry date
• Blank pages: At least 2 blank visa pages for stamps
• Yellow fever certificate: Required if arriving from countries with yellow fever transmission risk or if you spent more than 12 hours in an airport of such countries
• Return ticket: Proof of onward travel required
• Sufficient funds: Proof that you can support yourself during your stay
• Mandatory travel insurance: since 1 October 2024 all foreign visitors to Zanzibar must buy a 44 USD local policy from the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation, and from January 2026 Mainland Tanzania requires similar 44 USD coverage (EAC and SADC citizens exempt)

United States Citizens - Special Requirements

US passport holders must apply for a multiple entry visa even for single visits. This visa costs $100 USD and is valid for 12 months, allowing stays of up to 90 days per entry. US citizens cannot apply for the standard single entry tourist visa.

Transit Passengers

Transit visas are required if you plan to leave the airport and cost $30 USD. Same-terminal connections under 24 hours typically do not require visas. You must hold a valid visa for your final destination.

Business and Extended Stays

Business visas are available for short-term business activities and are valid for up to 90 days. The official fee is $250 USD. Business visas should not be used as a substitute for work permits. Employment in Tanzania requires a proper work permit or residence permit. Student visas are required for academic programs and align with the duration of study, not exceeding two years.

Processing Times

eVisa applications are typically processed within 10 business days. During peak periods, approval may take longer. It is recommended to apply at least 7-10 days before your departure date. In some cases, visa approval may arrive shortly before departure or even during travel.

Visa requirements and fees can change. Always verify current requirements through the official Tanzania Immigration Services website before making travel arrangements.

Tanzania offers multiple visa categories designed to accommodate diverse travel purposes, from leisure tourism to business ventures and long-term residency. Understanding the specific requirements and validity periods for each visa type ensures seamless entry and compliance with immigration regulations.

Tourist and Visitor Visas

Single-entry tourist visas remain valid for 90 days and suit most leisure travelers pursuing holidays, visiting friends and family, health treatment, or leisure activities. Multiple-entry tourist visas accommodate frequent visitors with validity ranging from three months to one year, provided that a single stay shall not exceed 90 days. U.S. citizens must obtain a one-year multiple-entry visa for 100 USD, which can be applied for online. Both categories require confirmed accommodation and return flight documentation.

Business Visa Categories

Business visas may be issued for a period not exceeding 90 days for foreign nationals conducting commercial activities including:

• Special assignments such as fixing or repairing machines or running short-term training
• Professional tasks including auditing, feasibility studies, and establishing business contacts
• Investment arrangements during startup periods

Business visas are issued for a period not exceeding three months and are not extendable; the official fee is 250 USD. Applications require employment contracts or work assignment documentation from host companies in Tanzania.

Work and Employment Visas

Class A work permits are issued to foreigners intending to invest in prospective areas such as industry, mining, forest, social services and business. Class B permits are issued to foreign expatriates with rare professions to work for companies in the country. Class C permits serve other foreigners such as missionaries, students, volunteers, researchers or retired persons. Processing requires comprehensive documentation including medical certificates, criminal background checks, and employment contracts.

Academic and Student Visas

Student visas may be issued to foreign nationals for academic purposes such as research, internship, volunteering, students under exchange programs, and prospective students with admission in registered institutions, with the first category for programs not exceeding 90 days (50 USD fee) and the second category for programs exceeding 90 days (fees from 250 to 550 USD depending on duration). The validity of visas for applicants undertaking language courses will not exceed six months. Applicants must provide admission documentation from accredited Tanzanian institutions.

Transit and Special Categories

Transit visas may be issued to foreign nationals seeking to enter the country on transit to other countries, issued for a period not exceeding seven days. Applicants may be required to provide proof of a visa for the destination country and onward tickets. Diplomatic visas may be issued to holders of diplomatic, service or official passports or travel documents of recognized international organizations and their dependents. Family reunion visas connect foreign nationals with Tanzanian relatives and require proof of relationship documentation.

Processing Times by Visa Type

Tourist Visa: Applications are typically processed within 10 business days through the online eVisa portal, though most standard applications are completed within 4-7 business days. Many applicants receive approval within 1-3 business days during off-peak periods. Business Visa: Single entry business visas are processed within 10 business days for periods not exceeding 90 days. Work Permits: 30-60 days through Tanzania Investment Centre. Student Visas: Student visa processing takes 10 business days, with fees of $50 USD for programs under 90 days and $250 to $550 USD for programs exceeding 90 days.

Visa Fees & Payment Methods

• Single Entry Tourist: $50 USD for most nationalities
• Multiple Entry Tourist: $100 USD (required for US citizens for tourism purposes, valid for 12 months)
• Business Visa: $250 USD for single entry, up to 90 days
• Transit Visa: $30 USD for stays up to 7 days
• Student Visa: $50 USD for stays under 90 days; $250 to $550 USD for stays exceeding 90 days

Payment accepted via Visa or MasterCard credit/debit cards for secure online transactions. Tanzania does not officially offer expedited processing services.

Application Locations

Online Portal: the official Tanzania Immigration Services eVisa website handles applications for the United Republic of Tanzania (both Tanzania Mainland and Zanzibar). Applicants can apply and pay online for an eVisa in advance of travel and will receive a grant notice via email upon approval. Key Consulates: Tanzania Embassy Washington DC, Tanzania High Commission London. US citizens can also obtain a tourist visa upon arrival.

Essential Documentation

• Passport valid at least 6 months with at least one unused visa page
• Recent passport photograph
• Yellow fever vaccination certificate (mandatory if arriving from yellow fever risk areas)
• Flight itinerary and accommodation proof
• Bank statements for financial evidence

Peak Processing Periods

High application volumes during peak travel seasons including safari season and holidays can lead to longer processing times. Apply at least two weeks before travel, or ideally one month in advance to prevent delays. The Immigration Office does not process visas on weekends or public holidays, so applications submitted before holidays will experience extra processing time.

Step 1: Determine Your Visa Category

Identify the appropriate visa type based on your travel purpose, whether for tourism, business, transit, or residence. Processing typically takes ten days, except for referral visa categories which require additional time. Review duration requirements and ensure your passport has at least six months validity and two blank pages.

Step 2: Gather Required Documentation

Collect essential documents systematically:

• Completed application form with accurate information
• Recent passport-sized photograph meeting specifications: colored with plain background, displaying full face from top of hair to bottom of chin with eyes open, maximum 45mm x 35mm, not exceeding 500KB in JPG or JPEG format
• Copy of passport biographic data page valid for at least six months
• Supporting documents relevant to your visa category
• Flight itinerary and accommodation confirmation
• Financial proof demonstrating sufficient funds
• Return ticket to show upon arrival at the entry point

Step 3: Complete Application Submission

Tanzania offers online visa applications through the official eVisa portal at visa.immigration.go.tz, where you fill in the online form, make payment, and submit your application online. Two options exist for obtaining a visa: applying online through the Tanzania Immigration Services official website, or obtaining a visa on arrival at official entry points, with online application being the recommended method. Ensure all forms are completed without errors or omissions. Every passport holder, including minors listed in their parents' applications, must have their own separate visa application submitted.

Step 4: Schedule and Attend Appointment (If Required)

Applicants may be required to visit the nearest Tanzanian embassies or consular offices for interviews. If called for an interview, arrive punctually with organized documentation. Biometric data is not required during the online eVisa application process; if biometrics are required, they are recorded upon arrival at the immigration counter in accordance with local entry procedures.

Step 5: Process Fee Payment

Pay applicable visa fees using accepted payment methods during online submission. The fee for ordinary single-entry visa is 50 USD with validity of up to 90 days, while the fee for multiple-entry visa is 100 USD with validity of 1 year. Retain payment receipts as proof of transaction for tracking purposes.

Step 6: Monitor Application Progress

Applicants will be notified through email whether their applications have been accepted or rejected, and may track their application status through the online system. Track your application using the ID number given during the application stage by returning to the visa application system and clicking the visa status button. Visa applications will be processed within ten days except for referral visa categories.

Step 7: Visa Collection

If approved, the applicant will receive a grant notice via email which they present to the Immigration Officer upon arrival at the airport in Tanzania. Verify all details immediately upon receipt to ensure accuracy before travel.

Common mistakes to avoid: incomplete documentation, incorrect photograph specifications, insufficient processing time allowance before travel dates, and submitting applications without reviewing carefully, as no further changes may be made once a visa application is submitted.

Zanzibar is part of the United Republic of Tanzania, so there is no separate Zanzibar visa. The same Tanzanian visa, whether an eVisa obtained online or a visa on arrival, covers Tanzania Mainland, Unguja (Zanzibar Island), and Pemba. When completing the online application, simply select your first point of entry; afterwards you may travel freely between the mainland and the islands without any additional visa.

Entry Points and Border Checks

Most international visitors arrive at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport near Stone Town, where both eVisa holders and eligible travelers seeking a visa on arrival are processed. If you land in Dar es Salaam first and continue by ferry, keep your passport at hand: travelers between the mainland and Zanzibar pass a document check on both sides, and your existing entry stamp remains valid.

Mandatory Inbound Travel Insurance Since October 2024

The most important recent change for island-bound travelers took effect on 1 October 2024: every non-resident foreign visitor to Zanzibar must hold a mandatory inbound travel insurance policy issued by the state-owned Zanzibar Insurance Corporation. Key rules:

• The premium is 44 USD per adult and 22 USD for children aged 3 to 17, while infants under two are exempt
• The policy is valid for up to 92 days from the date of entry
• Foreign or private travel insurance is not accepted as a substitute; the local policy is required regardless of any coverage you already hold
• Coverage includes emergency medical treatment, evacuation and repatriation, baggage loss, and legal expenses
• You can buy the policy online before departure through the official Visit Zanzibar portal or pay on arrival at the airport or seaport after completing the online form

Other Requirements for Zanzibar

Standard Tanzanian entry rules apply: a passport valid for at least six months, proof of onward travel, sufficient funds, and a yellow fever certificate if you arrive from a country with transmission risk. Since January 2026, visitors continuing to Mainland Tanzania fall under the separate mainland insurance scheme at 44 USD (citizens of East African Community and SADC countries are exempt), so budget for both policies when combining a safari with a beach stay.

Travelers choosing between a single entry and a multiple entry visa should weigh how often they plan to cross Tanzanian borders. The ordinary single entry visa costs 50 USD, allows one entry, and remains valid for up to 90 days, which suits a typical safari, Kilimanjaro climb, or beach holiday. The multiple entry visa costs 100 USD, is issued with a validity of up to twelve months, and permits repeated entries, although no single stay may exceed three consecutive months.

Who Can Apply for a Multiple Entry Visa

Tanzanian immigration guidelines reserve the multiple entry visa for people who can demonstrate a need for frequent visits. Eligible categories include:

• United States passport holders, who must apply for the 100 USD multiple entry visa for tourism even when planning a single trip, as they are not eligible for the ordinary visa
• Non-resident directors of companies registered in Tanzania
• Consultants, experts, and representatives of international organizations with recurring assignments
• Participants in bilateral programs and intergovernmental meetings
• Foreign spouses of Tanzanian citizens or residents and other family-linked applicants
• Other travelers whose circumstances justify frequent visits, at the discretion of the Commissioner General of Immigration

Cost Breakdown and Practical Tips

The multiple entry visa fee is a flat 100 USD regardless of nationality, paid by card during the online application. Supporting documents should explain the need for repeated travel, such as an invitation letter, proof of ongoing business, or evidence of family ties; applicants without such justification are normally issued the 50 USD single entry visa instead. A popular use case is a combined East African itinerary: a single entry visa is consumed once you leave Tanzania, so travelers crossing into Kenya, Uganda, or Rwanda and returning need the multiple entry option to re-enter without a new application. Processing follows the standard timeline of up to ten days, so apply well before your first departure. Note that neither visa type permits employment: paid work in Tanzania always requires a separate work permit regardless of how many entries your visa allows.