Tanzania Visa Application Guidelines – Online and Arrival

Tanzania situated in East Africa consists of beautiful terrain landscapes, wildlife safaris, pristine beaches and unique cultural heritage. Visiting and gaining access to the country requires you to have a Visa. Below is a guide with detailed information about the Tanzania Visa, application requirements, procedure of obtaining a Visa.

1. Types of Tanzania Visas

Tanzania offers varying types of visas depending on the purpose of your visit.

1.1 Tourist Visa

The tourist visa is the most prominent type of Visa for travelers visiting Tanzania for leisure. This will enable you stay up to 90 days. It is issued for the purpose of tourism, visiting friends or family, or exploring Tanzania’s destinations like Serengeti National Park, Mount Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar.

Eligibility Requirements

• Valid passport with at least six months of validity beyond the date of intended departure.
• Proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay in Tanzania.
• A confirmed return or onward travel ticket.

1.2 Business Visa

The business visa is issued for travelers visiting Tanzania for business purposes like meetings, conferences, or exploring investment opportunities. The visa is typically issued for short stays.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Valid passport with at least six months of validity.
• A letter of invitation from a Tanzanian company or organization.
• Proof of sufficient financial means to support your stay.

1.3 Transit Visa

If you’re traveling through Tanzania to reach another destination, you shall need a transit visa which is valid for 7 days and allows travelers to pass through the country to connect to other flights or destinations.

Eligibility Requirements:

• A valid passport with at least six months of validity.
• Proof of onward travel, such as a flight ticket or visa for the next destination.
• Sufficient funds for the duration of your stay in transit.

1.4 East African Tourist Visa

This visa allows tourists to visit multiple East African countries, including Tanzania, Uganda, and Kenya, with a single visa. It’s ideal for those who plan to explore the region as part of a longer vacation.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Valid passport with at least six months of validity.
• Proof of accommodation and itinerary for the countries included in the visa.
• Sufficient funds for the trip.

1.5 Multiple Entry Visa

A multiple entry visa is designed for individuals who frequently travel to Tanzania for business, work, or family reasons. This visa allows you to enter and exit the country multiple times during its validity period.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Valid passport.
• Proof of regular travel to Tanzania (such as business or personal reasons).
• Letter of invitation or official documentation depending on the purpose of the visit.

1.6 Student Visa

If you are planning to study in Tanzania for a duration of more than three months, you will need a student visa. It is typically issued for the entire duration of the course.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Admission letter from a Tanzanian educational institution.
• Proof of financial support for the duration of studies.
• A valid passport with at least six months of validity.

2. Visa Exemptions for Tanzania

Certain nationalities do not require a visa to visit Tanzania for short stays, typically up to 90 days. Citizens from the following countries are exempt from obtaining a visa:

Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Seychelles, Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Hong Kong.

Tanzania’s visa policy is subject to change, so it’s essential to check the most up-to-date information from the Tanzania Embassy or Consulate in your country.

3. How to Apply for a Tanzania Visa

There are several ways to apply for a Tanzania visa depending on your nationality, the type of visa, and the specific entry requirements. The process can vary slightly, but the general steps remain the same.

3.1 Online Visa Application (e-Visa)

Tanzania has implemented an electronic visa application system that allows travelers to apply for their visa online, making the process more convenient and faster.

Steps to Apply for an e-Visa:

1. Visit the Official Tanzania Immigration Website: Go to the Tanzania Immigration Department’s e-Visa page.
2. Complete the Application Form: Fill out the visa application form with your personal details, travel itinerary, passport information, and the type of visa you are applying for.
3. Upload Supporting Documents: Depending on the visa type, you will need to upload necessary documents such as your passport bio-data page, passport-size photo, travel itinerary, hotel reservations, or invitation letters.
4. Pay the Visa Fee: Visa fees are usually paid online through a secure payment gateway using a credit or debit card.
5. Wait for Processing: The processing time for an e-Visa is typically 5-7 business days, though it can vary.
6. Receive Your e-Visa: If your application is approved, you will receive an e-Visa by email. Print the e-Visa and carry it with you when traveling to Tanzania.

3.2 Visa Application at a Tanzanian Embassy or Consulate

If you are unable to apply for an e-Visa, you can submit a visa application at the nearest Tanzanian embassy or consulate. The process usually involves:

1. Filling out the Visa Application Form: Obtain and complete the visa application form from the embassy or consulate.
2. Gathering Required Documents: Submit your passport, passport photos, travel itinerary, and other documents.
3. Paying the Visa Fee: Pay the applicable visa fees.
4. Submission and Processing: Submit your application, and wait for processing. Processing times vary, but you can typically expect it to take 5-10 business days.
5. Collection of Visa: Once your visa is approved, you will be notified to collect your visa.

3.3 Visa on Arrival

In some cases, travelers can obtain a visa upon arrival at designated entry points in Tanzania. However, this option is limited to certain nationalities and is not recommended for all travelers due to potential delays and long queues at the airport.

4. Visa Fees for Tanzania

Visa fees for Tanzania vary based on the type of visa and the applicant’s nationality. For example:

• Tourist Visa: $50 USD for a single-entry visa.
• Business Visa: $250 USD for a multiple-entry visa.
• East African Visa: $100 USD for a visa that covers Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda.
• Student Visa: Fees vary depending on the duration of studies. These fees are indicative and should be verified with the relevant authorities at the time of application.

5. Visa Validity and Extension

• Validity: Most tourist visas for Tanzania are valid for 30-90 days from the date of arrival. Business visas and multiple-entry visas may have longer validity periods.
• Visa Extension: If you wish to stay longer than your visa allows, you may be able to apply for an extension at the Tanzania Immigration Department. Extensions are typically granted for up to 30 days.

6. Important Tips for Tanzania Visa Applicants

• Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date.
• Check your eligibility for a visa before making travel plans to avoid unnecessary hassles.
• Be aware of your visa’s expiration date and plan your stay accordingly.
• Carry supporting documents such as proof of sufficient funds, accommodation, and a return ticket.
• Keep a copy of your visa and other important documents with you during your trip.