Do I require a visa to visit Tanzania?
There are countless reasons to explore Tanzania – from wildlife-rich safaris to breathtaking beaches and Africa's tallest mountain, this stunning nation deserves a spot on every travel bucket list.
In the northern region, the Serengeti's vast plains are teeming with various wild animal species. It’s said that during the great migration from June to September, you can witness up to 30,000 animals in a single safari outing.
Nearby looms Africa’s highest peak, Kilimanjaro, a dream destination for climbers. And that's just the beginning! A six-hour hike to the rim of Ol Doinyo Lengai (Mountain of God) offers breathtaking views to rival those of Kilimanjaro. Afterward, relax on the beach-fringed islands along Tanzania's east coast.
This is merely a glimpse of what awaits you – extraordinary adventures can be found throughout the country. Make sure your Tanzanian journey doesn’t stop at the airport by following our guide to obtaining your visa for the trip of a lifetime.
Who requires a tourist visa to enter Tanzania?
Most travelers, including those from the EU, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, the US, Canada, and many countries in Latin America and Asia (excluding Hong Kong and Singapore), must obtain a visa prior to their trip to Tanzania. However, acquiring one is generally an easy process for most nationalities.
Tourists visiting Tanzania need to apply for an 'ordinary visa,' which permits a single entry for up to three months. This visa is also appropriate for those attending conferences or engaging in humanitarian or charity work, costing US$50. US citizens must apply for a more expensive multiple-entry visa.
Keep in mind that visas are valid for 90 days from the date they are issued, so ensure your trip falls within this timeframe. Your passport must be valid for at least six months upon entering Tanzania, and you may be asked to provide proof of a return ticket and sufficient funds upon arrival.
Visas for multiple entries into Tanzania
US citizens and those planning to visit Tanzania multiple times during their trip should apply for a multiple-entry visa. Priced at US$100, this visa permits multiple entries within a 12-month span, allowing stays of up to three months per visit. Non-US applicants must explain their need for a multiple-entry visa, such as traveling overland to Kenya or other nearby countries, when submitting their application.
To be eligible for a multiple-entry visa, your passport must remain valid for at least six months from your entry date. You'll also need to provide a passport photo and proof of a return ticket to Tanzania. Additional documents, such as a security bond, may be required; it's best to contact your local Tanzanian embassy or consulate for specific details.
Reaching the summit of Mt Kilimanjaro is a quintessential experience in Tanzania © thinair28 / Getty ImagesSteps to apply for a Tanzania visa
Tanzania now offers e-visas with a straightforward online application process. When applying through the official website, you'll need to provide your passport details, a scanned copy of your passport's identity pages, a recent passport-style photo, and proof of payment. While you can also apply at certain Tanzanian embassies and consulates abroad, this option isn't available in every country.
Visas upon arrival in Tanzania
In addition to applying for a visa beforehand, travelers can opt for a visa on arrival in Tanzania (note that citizens from countries needing a referral visa cannot use this option). To ensure a smooth entry, it's wise to check the latest entry requirements on the Tanzania Immigration Services Department website before your trip.
On-arrival visas can be obtained at international airports in Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro, and Zanzibar, as well as at the Namanga border post with Kenya and the Tunduma border crossing with Zambia.
Don’t be surprised if officials direct you to the emergency visa checkpoint upon arrival—this is where you'll submit your visa-on-arrival application. Be prepared for potentially long lines, and you may need to present proof of onward travel and sufficient funds.
Yellow fever vaccination guidelines
As of now, travelers are not universally required to present a yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Tanzania. However, if you have visited a country with endemic yellow fever (many in central Africa) within 21 days prior to your arrival in Tanzania, you must show a vaccination certificate.
The sun-drenched coastline of Zanzibar is a tropical paradise © Hugh Sitton / Stocksy UnitedWho is required to obtain a referral visa for Tanzania?
Travelers from 28 countries in Central Asia and Africa must obtain special clearance from the Commissioner-General of Immigration before visiting Tanzania. A complete list can be found on the Immigration Services Department’s website.
If you're coming from one of the listed countries, it's essential to apply for your visa at least two months prior to your intended travel date. Since approval isn't guaranteed, refrain from booking flights or accommodations until you receive confirmation from Tanzanian authorities.
Transit visas for Tanzania
If you're only passing through Tanzania for a few days before heading to another country like Kenya or Rwanda, a transit visa may suffice. This visa costs just US$30, but your stay cannot exceed seven days. You may need to provide evidence of a visa or travel ticket for your next destination after Tanzania.
Business and student visas for entering Tanzania
Although many nations have implemented remote working visas, Tanzania currently lacks such a program. If you intend to visit for business purposes, you must apply for a business visa, which is valid for 90 days. The cost is US$250, and you may need to provide supporting documentation from your host organization in Tanzania.
Individuals traveling to Tanzania for research, internships, volunteering, or academic purposes can apply for a student visa. For studies lasting less than three months, the fee is US$50, increasing to US$550 depending on the type and length of study. Keep in mind that language students can only obtain a six-month visa, while the maximum duration for a student visa is two years. Exchange students are exempt from the application fee.
A family of African elephants congregates in the shadow of Mt Kilimanjaro © Ian Lenehan / 500pxRenewing a Tanzania visa
Tanzania typically allows most visitors a three-month stay, and exceeding this period can lead to detention, fines, or deportation. However, it's possible to extend a three-month visa for an additional three months at the immigration office in Dar es Salaam, as well as at some other major cities in Tanzania.
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