Tanzania, an East African jewel, is world-famous for its unparalleled wildlife in the Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater, the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro, and the exotic beaches of Zanzibar. Whether for safari adventures, mountain climbing, or cultural experiences – Tanzania attracts a diverse range of visitors. Most foreign nationals require a visa for entry. In recent years, Tanzania has implemented an efficient e-Visa system, simplifying the application process for many travelers, although other visa options also remain. Familiarizing yourself with the current visa regulations is an important step in preparing for any trip to Tanzania.
Generally, yes. Most foreign nationals require a visa to enter Tanzania.
Visa Exemption: Citizens of a few countries (predominantly African nations with agreements with Tanzania) are exempt from visa requirements for short stays. This list is limited and should always be checked on the official website of the Tanzanian Immigration Services Department.
E-Visa (Electronic Visa): For the majority of nationalities, the e-Visa is the recommended and most common way to apply for a Tanzanian visa. It covers tourism, business, and other short-term stays.
Visa on Arrival (VOA): It is still possible to obtain a visa on arrival at certain official border crossings and international airports (such as Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar). However, the Tanzanian government strongly advises applying for an e-Visa in advance to avoid waiting times and potential complications upon entry. Not all nationalities are eligible for a visa on arrival.
Visa via Embassy/High Commission: For certain visa categories, long-term stays (e.g., work, study), or if an e-Visa/Visa on Arrival is not possible, a visa must be applied for in advance at a Tanzanian embassy or high commission.
The exact requirements depend on your nationality and the purpose of your travel.
Tanzania offers various visa categories tailored to the purpose and duration of stay:
Key Requirements:
This is the most common type of visa for tourists, individuals visiting family or friends, attending conferences, or undertaking other short-term, approved activities. It is generally valid for a stay of up to 90 days.
Key Requirements:
This visa is intended for individuals who need to enter Tanzania frequently. It is often granted to US citizens for tourism purposes (valid for 12 months, allowing stays of max. 90 days per entry) or individuals in specific categories such as directors of companies registered in Tanzania, spouses of Tanzanian citizens, or government consultants. It is generally not intended for first-time visitors (except US citizens) unless there are compelling reasons.
Key Requirements:
Although the Tanzanian government strongly recommends obtaining an e-Visa in advance, the Visa on Arrival is still available for many nationalities at major international airports (e.g., Dar es Salaam - DAR, Kilimanjaro - JRO, Zanzibar - ZNZ) and some border crossings. It can lead to longer waiting times.
Key Requirements:
For individuals undertaking short-term (not exceeding 90 days) business or professional activities in Tanzania, such as conducting specialized training, providing technical support, auditing accounts, etc. This is not a work visa and does not permit regular employment.
Key Requirements:
For travelers transiting through Tanzania to another destination and not staying in the country for more than 7 days. This visa does not permit tourist activities.
Key Requirements:
Special permits are required for long-term stays. A Student Pass is issued to individuals admitted to recognized Tanzanian educational institutions for long-term courses. For employment (as an employee or investor) or other long-term purposes, Residence Permits (Classes A, B, or C) are needed. These processes are more complex and time-consuming than applying for short-stay visas.
Key Requirements: Very extensive and specific depending on the category. E.g., for a Student Pass: admission letter from the educational institution, proof of financial means. For Residence Permits (Work): employment contract with a Tanzanian company, proof that the position cannot be filled by a local candidate, qualification certificates, etc. The application is often initiated by the inviting institution or employer in Tanzania.
Tanzania's entry requirements are clearly structured, with the e-Visa system being the preferred and most efficient method for most travelers. Regardless of your travel purpose, a careful review of the requirements and timely application for your visa are essential. Please also note that proof of a valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required upon entry if you are arriving from a country with a risk of Yellow Fever transmission. As visa regulations and health requirements can change, always consult the official website of the Tanzania Immigration Services Department and the websites of the relevant Tanzanian diplomatic missions for the most up-to-date information. Online-Visa.com strives to support you with accurate information, but this cannot replace individual verification and consultation with official sources. With the right preparation, nothing stands in the way of your unforgettable stay in Tanzania.