Tanzania Evisa Requirements

Tanzania Visa

Tanzania E-Visa Application Guide

Tanzania E-Visa Application Guide for Safari and Zanzibar Adventures

If you’re planning an unforgettable Tanzania Zanzibar safari experience, understanding the proper visa application process is essential for smooth travel preparations. Tanzania offers two primary visa application methods – the recommended Online Visa Platform and the On-Arrival Visa Platform – with important guidelines to ensure successful processing.

Important Notice for Tanzania Zanzibar Safari Travelers

Tanzania’s visa system has transitioned to primarily online and on-arrival options, eliminating embassy-issued visas. This streamlined process benefits travelers planning Tanzania Zanzibar safari adventures.
While on-arrival visas remain available for eligible nationalities, the Online Visa Platform is strongly recommended for all Tanzania Zanzibar safari visitors to avoid potential delays upon arrival.
Travelers should verify if their nationality falls under the Referral Visa category, as these applicants cannot utilize the on-arrival option and must apply online well before their Tanzania Zanzibar safari departure date.
Before submitting your application for a Tanzania Zanzibar safari, carefully review the comprehensive Visa Guidelines on the official portal to ensure proper preparation.
Always apply through the official Tanzania Immigration website (www.immigration.go.tz) or directly via visa.immigration.go.tz to avoid unauthorized third-party services when securing documentation for your Tanzania Zanzibar safari.
By applying for a Tanzania visa, you acknowledge understanding and acceptance of all Terms and Conditions detailed on the visa portal and declaration.
Ensure your passport maintains at least six months validity beyond your planned Tanzania Zanzibar safari dates and contains at least one blank visa page.
Select the appropriate visa category for your Tanzania Zanzibar safari purpose. For vacation travelers, the Ordinary Visa is appropriate, though American passport holders must apply for the Multiple Entry Visa even for tourism.
Applications for Multiple Entry Visas from non-American travelers require careful attention to specific requirements before Tanzania Zanzibar safari arrangements.
Incorrectly submitted applications or those missing required documentation may face rejection without refund of application fees.
Standard visa processing typically requires ten days, though certain applications may require additional review time before your Tanzania Zanzibar safari departure.
After submitting payment, await official approval notification before commencing travel arrangements for your Tanzania Zanzibar safari, even if processing extends beyond estimated timeframes.
Approval notifications arrive via email, but you can also check application status through: https://eservices.immigration.go.tz/visa/checkapplicationstatus if planning a Tanzania Zanzibar safari.
For application status inquiries beyond standard processing times, contact info@immigration.go.tz for assistance with your Tanzania Zanzibar safari documentation.
The Immigration Department maintains discretion regarding visa approval decisions and explanation of rejections.
Travelers whose nationalities fall under Referral Visa categories must apply online at least six weeks before their Tanzania Zanzibar safari departure and should avoid purchasing non-refundable flights or accommodations until receiving visa approval.
The Referral Visa country list may change without notice, so regularly check the official website when planning your Tanzania Zanzibar safari.
Visa regulations remain subject to modification without prior notification, requiring travelers to verify current requirements before finalizing Tanzania Zanzibar safari plans.

Proper attention to these guidelines ensures your visa application process proceeds smoothly, allowing you to focus on the exciting wildlife encounters and pristine beaches awaiting during your Tanzania Zanzibar safari experience.

Note

It’s crucial for all Tanzania Zanzibar safari visitors to understand that possessing an approved visa does not automatically guarantee entry into Tanzania. The Immigration Officer stationed at your port of entry maintains complete discretionary authority regarding final admission decisions for all travelers.

Even with a valid visa for your Tanzania Zanzibar safari adventure, entry may be denied if the Immigration Officer determines that you don’t satisfy all immigration requirements in their entirety. These requirements extend beyond merely holding the appropriate visa documentation and may include verification of sufficient funds, confirmed accommodation arrangements, and complete travel itineraries.

Additionally, entry permission for your Tanzania Zanzibar safari may be refused if the officer determines that your presence within Tanzania could potentially conflict with national interests or security considerations. This discretionary power exists as a sovereign protection measure and applies universally to all international visitors regardless of nationality or visa type.

Therefore, when preparing for your Tanzania Zanzibar safari experience, ensure you carry comprehensive documentation demonstrating your travel purpose, accommodation arrangements, financial sufficiency, and return transportation. These supporting materials help demonstrate your legitimate tourism intentions and may facilitate smoother entry processing when beginning your Tanzania Zanzibar safari journey.

Understanding these conditions ensures realistic expectations and proper preparation for all international travelers planning to experience Tanzania’s remarkable wildlife and Zanzibar’s pristine beaches.

Also, Visitors MUST show their Return Ticket upon arrival

Complete Guide to Tanzania Visa Types

When planning your Tanzania Zanzibar safari, understanding the appropriate visa category is essential for a smooth travel experience. Tanzania offers six distinct visa types, each designed for specific travel purposes. Let me walk you through these options to help you determine which visa best suits your Tanzania Zanzibar safari plans.

ORDINARY VISA (SINGLE ENTRY)

This is the standard visa for most Tanzania Zanzibar safari travelers coming for tourism purposes. The Ordinary Visa allows:

Entry for tourism, leisure, holiday activities
Attending conferences or humanitarian work
Family visits and health treatments
Validity up to 90 days with a single entry

Most visitors planning a Tanzania Zanzibar safari should apply for this visa category, with one notable exception: U.S. citizens must apply for a Multiple Entry Visa even for tourism purposes due to a bilateral agreement between Tanzania and the United States.

BUSINESS VISA

While not typically needed for standard Tanzania Zanzibar safari experiences, this 90-day visa serves professionals entering Tanzania for:

Conducting specialized assignments like equipment repairs or short-term training
Professional activities such as auditing, feasibility studies, or establishing business contacts
Investment arrangements during startup phases
Other short-term business activities recognized by Tanzanian law

Important considerations for Business Visa applicants:

Valid for a maximum of 90 days
Single entry only—you cannot re-enter Tanzania after departure
Not suitable for activities exceeding three months (which require a Residence Permit instead)

MULTIPLE ENTRY VISA

This visa category applies to:

All U.S. citizens visiting for tourism/holiday purposes (mandatory requirement)
Company directors registered in Tanzania who reside elsewhere
Participants in bilateral government meetings
Spouses of Tanzanian citizens/residents
Government consultants and representatives of international NGOs

Special documentation requirements apply:

Non-resident company directors must provide BRELA search documents
Government project participants need supporting letters from relevant ministries
Family visitors must submit relationship proof (marriage/birth certificates)

The Multiple Entry Visa offers:

Maximum validity of 12 months
Maximum stay of three months per visit (not consecutive)

This visa type proves particularly valuable for travelers planning multiple Tanzania Zanzibar safari trips within a year.

TRANSIT VISA

This short-term visa accommodates travelers merely passing through Tanzania en route to another destination:

Valid for a maximum of seven days
Requires proof of onward travel and/or destination country visa
Cannot be used for tourism purposes on your Tanzania Zanzibar safari

GRATIS VISA

This special category applies to:

Diplomatic, service, or official passport holders on official duty
Dependents of official passport holders
Travel document holders from recognized international organizations
Ordinary passport holders as directed by immigration authorities

Diplomatic passport holders applying online must upload:

Invitation letter from Tanzania’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Passport biographical data page
Documentation confirming diplomatic status

STUDENT VISA

For academic visitors planning to incorporate educational activities into their Tanzania experience:

Available for research students, interns, volunteers, exchange students
Two duration categories:
- Programs under 90 days: $50 USD fee
- Programs exceeding 90 days: $250 USD fee
Language course visas limited to six months maximum

Special Considerations for Referral Visa Countries

Certain nationalities fall under Tanzania’s “Referral Visa Category” and cannot obtain visas on arrival. If your country appears on this list (available on the official immigration website), you must:

Submit applications online exclusively
Apply at least one month before your Tanzania Zanzibar safari departure
Obtain approval before commencing travel
Include an invitation/request letter from your Tanzanian host when possible
Present actual return tickets upon arrival

Travelers from referral countries should avoid:

Purchasing non-refundable flights before visa approval
Paying for accommodation reservations prematurely
Applying for Multiple Entry Visas

The website’s Referral Visa list undergoes periodic review, so verify your country’s status when planning your Tanzania Zanzibar safari.

Additionally, stateless persons and refugees holding Vienna Convention documents fall under the Referral Visa category and must follow the same procedures.

Understanding these visa categories ensures you select the appropriate option for your Tanzania Zanzibar safari, allowing you to focus on experiencing the country’s remarkable wildlife and Zanzibar’s pristine beaches without documentation complications.

Essential Travel Visa Information for Tanzania Zanzibar Safari Planning

When planning your Tanzania Zanzibar safari adventure, understanding visa requirements is crucial for a smooth travel experience. Let me explain the key information about Tanzania’s referral visa requirements and visa exemptions to help you prepare properly for your journey.

Countries Requiring Referral Visas for Tanzania

Travelers from the following countries must apply for a referral visa well in advance of their Tanzania Zanzibar safari. These applications require special processing and additional scrutiny:

The first group includes Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Burkina Faso, Chad, Eritrea, Guinea Conakry, Guinea Bissau, Iran, Iraq, and Kyrgyzstan.

The second group includes Lebanon, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Palestine, Somalia, Sierra Leone, and Syria.

The final group includes Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Yemen, as well as stateless persons and individuals with refugee status.

If you’re planning a Tanzania Zanzibar safari and hold a passport from any of these nations, you must:

Apply online exclusively (not at arrival)
Submit your application at least one month before travel
Wait for approval before booking non-refundable flights or accommodations
Bring your actual return ticket when arriving in Tanzania

This referral visa process serves as an additional security measure and requires more thorough documentation than standard visa applications.

Visa-Exempt Countries for Tanzania Entry

Many travelers planning a Tanzania Zanzibar safari will be pleased to discover they may be exempt from visa requirements entirely. Nationals from the following countries can enter Tanzania without applying for a visa:

The first group includes several Caribbean and island nations: Antigua & Barbuda, Anguilla, Ashmore & Cartia Islands, Bahamas, Barbados, Bermuda, Belize, Brunei, British Virgin Islands, British Indian Ocean Territory, along with African nations like Botswana and Burundi. European territories including Cyprus, Cayman Islands, Channel Islands, and several remote islands like Cocos Islands, Cook Islands, and Christmas Islands are also exempt. Additional countries in this group include the Democratic Republic of Congo, Dominica, Falkland Islands, Gambia, Ghana, and Gibraltar.

The second exempt group includes Grenada, Guernsey, Guyana, Heard Island, Hong Kong (China), Isle of Man, Jamaica, Jersey, and several African nations including Kenya, Lesotho, Malawi. Additional territories like Montserrat, along with countries such as Malaysia, Madagascar, Malta, Mauritius, Macao (China), Mozambique, and various Pacific island nations including Nauru, Niue Island, Norfolk Island, Namibia, and Papua New Guinea enjoy visa-free access.

The final exempt group includes many African nations like Rwanda, as well as Romania, various island territories, Samoa, Seychelles, Singapore, Swaziland, Solomon Islands, South Africa, and South Sudan. Caribbean nations including St. Kitts & Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent, and St. Helena also appear on this list. Additional exempt countries include Trinidad & Tobago, Turks & Caicos, and Pacific nations like Tokelau, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu. Finally, East African neighbors Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe round out the exempt list.

If you hold a passport from any of these countries, you can proceed directly to Tanzania for your safari and Zanzibar adventure without securing a visa in advance. However, you should still:

Ensure your passport has at least six months validity
Prepare documentation showing your travel purpose and accommodation arrangements
Have proof of sufficient funds and return transportation

Understanding these visa requirements and exemptions will help you properly prepare for your Tanzania Zanzibar safari, allowing you to focus on enjoying the incredible wildlife experiences and pristine beaches that await you in this remarkable destination.

Comprehensive Requirements for Tanzania Visa Applications

When planning your Tanzania Zanzibar safari adventure, understanding the precise visa requirements for your nationality and travel purpose is essential. Let me walk you through the detailed documentation requirements for each visa category to ensure your application proceeds smoothly.

Ordinary (Single Entry) Visa Requirements

For most tourists planning a Tanzania Zanzibar safari, the Ordinary Visa is the appropriate choice. To successfully apply, you’ll need to provide:

A copy of your valid passport’s biographical data page, ensuring at least six months of validity remains. This serves as your primary identification document throughout the application process.

Your return flight ticket, which demonstrates your intention to depart Tanzania after your safari adventure. This requirement helps immigration authorities verify your visit is temporary.

A completed declaration form, where you’ll provide information about your travel purpose and intended activities during your Tanzania Zanzibar safari.

The standard visa fee of 50 USD, payable through the online portal during application submission.

Multiple Entry Visa Requirements (Company Directors)

Business travelers who serve as company directors in Tanzania require specific documentation:

A recent passport-sized photograph that meets formal identification standards.

A copy of your passport’s biographical data page with sufficient remaining validity.

Your return flight ticket demonstrating planned departure.

An official covering letter from your company explaining your directorial role and travel purpose.

The company’s registration certificate or certificate of compliance, verifying the business’s legal status in Tanzania.

A crucial BRELA SEARCH document that specifically confirms your status as a director. This document comes from Tanzania’s Business Registration and Licensing Agency.

The multiple-entry visa fee of 100 USD.

Multiple Entry Visa (Government Consultancy/Bilateral Agreements)

Professionals working with Tanzanian government entities need:

A recent passport-sized photograph meeting identification requirements.

A copy of your passport’s biographical data page.

Your return flight ticket.

Either an official covering letter from the specific Tanzanian government ministry or institution you’re consulting with, OR a covering letter from Tanzania’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs explaining the bilateral agreement framework.

The standard multiple-entry visa fee of 100 USD.

Multiple Entry Visa (Family Visit)

For those visiting family members during their Tanzania Zanzibar safari:

A recent passport-sized photograph.

A copy of your passport’s biographical data page.

Your return flight ticket.

An invitation letter from the specific family member you’re visiting.

Supporting relationship documentation: a marriage certificate if visiting a spouse, or a birth certificate if visiting your children.

A copy of your family member’s valid passport, national ID, or residence permit if they are residents in Tanzania.

The standard multiple-entry visa fee of 100 USD.

Multiple Entry Visa (US Nationals for Tourism/Holiday)

American citizens planning a Tanzania Zanzibar safari have simplified requirements:

A recent passport-sized photograph.

A copy of your passport’s biographical data page.

Your return flight ticket demonstrating planned departure after your safari experience.

The standard multiple-entry visa fee of 100 USD.

Multiple Entry Visa (Other Categories)

For multiple-entry applications that don’t fit the categories above:

A recent passport-sized photograph.

A copy of your passport’s biographical data page.

A specific permission letter from either the Commissioner General of Immigration or the Commissioner of Immigration, Zanzibar, authorizing your multiple-entry status.

Your return flight ticket.

The standard multiple-entry visa fee of 100 USD.

Business Visa Requirements

For short-term business activities in Tanzania:

A copy of your passport’s biographical data page.

Your return flight ticket.

A significantly higher visa fee of 250 USD.

A work contract or other documentation proving the specific assignment you’ll perform within a period not exceeding three months.

Transit Visa Requirements

For travelers merely passing through Tanzania en route to another destination:

A copy of your passport’s biographical data page.

A reduced visa fee of 30 USD.

Critical proof of onward travel: either an entry visa for your destination country or a confirmed ticket showing travel beyond Tanzania.

Student Visa Requirements

For educational pursuits during your time in Tanzania:

A copy of your passport’s biographical data page.

A variable visa fee (50 USD, 250 USD, or 550 USD) depending on your specific student category and program duration.

An official covering letter from your host institution detailing your course of study and the program’s duration.

An open return ticket allowing flexible departure.

Special Considerations for Referral Visa Countries

If your nationality falls under the Referral Visa category, additional precautions apply:

You must apply online exclusively—no arrival visas are permitted.

Submit your application at least two months before your planned Tanzania Zanzibar safari departure.

Include an introduction letter from your Tanzanian host (individual or company).

For tourism purposes, obtain a covering letter from a registered, credible Tanzanian tourism company.

Upload all supporting documentation in PDF format.

Most importantly, wait for explicit visa approval confirmation before commencing travel or making non-refundable reservations.

Understanding these detailed requirements will help ensure your Tanzania visa application proceeds smoothly, allowing you to focus on preparing for the incredible wildlife encounters and pristine beaches awaiting during your Tanzania Zanzibar safari adventure.

Tanzania Visa Fee Structure Guide for Your Safari Adventure

When planning your Tanzania Zanzibar safari, understanding the visa fee structure is an essential part of your travel budget preparation. Tanzania’s immigration system features a tiered fee structure that varies based on your visa type and, in some cases, the duration of your stay. Let me walk you through these fees in a clear, organized manner.

Ordinary (Single Entry) Visa – 50 USD

This is the standard tourist visa that most travelers will need for their Tanzania Zanzibar safari experience. The relatively modest fee of 50 USD covers a stay of up to 90 days, making it an economical option for most vacation travelers. Think of this as your basic entry permit for experiencing Tanzania’s wildlife and Zanzibar’s beaches.

Multiple Entry Visa – 100 USD

At 100 USD, the multiple entry visa costs twice as much as the standard tourist visa, but provides significantly more flexibility. This visa is particularly valuable if you’re planning multiple visits to Tanzania within a 12-month period. Remember that while the visa remains valid for up to a year, each individual stay is limited to 90 days. This is the mandatory visa type for all US citizens, even if they only plan a single visit for their Tanzania Zanzibar safari.

Business Visa – 250 USD

The substantially higher fee of 250 USD for the business visa reflects its specialized purpose. This visa is designed for professionals conducting specific business activities in Tanzania, such as equipment repairs, auditing, or establishing business contacts. The higher fee structure helps distinguish genuine business travelers from tourists and ensures appropriate categorization.

Transit Visa – 30 USD

At just 30 USD, the transit visa is the most economical option, designed specifically for travelers who are merely passing through Tanzania en route to another destination. The reduced cost reflects the brief nature of transit stays, which cannot exceed seven days. This visa type is not suitable for tourism activities during your Tanzania Zanzibar safari.

Student Visa – Variable Fees

The student visa features the most complex fee structure, with four distinct pricing tiers based on the nature and duration of your academic program:

50 USD: For short-term academic programs lasting less than 90 days
250 USD: For academic programs exceeding 90 days
300 USD: For specialized research programs
550 USD: For extended academic programs or certain research categories

This graduated scale accommodates everything from brief educational excursions to long-term study programs. The increasing fees correspond to the administrative complexity and longer duration of more extensive academic endeavors.

Gratis (Diplomatic) Visa – No Fee

As the name suggests, the gratis visa comes with no fee requirement. This courtesy is extended to diplomats, officials on government business, and representatives of certain international organizations. The visa’s cost-free nature reflects diplomatic protocols and international agreements.

Understanding these fee structures helps you select the appropriate visa category for your Tanzania Zanzibar safari while accurately budgeting for your travel expenses. Remember that visa fees represent just one component of your overall travel budget, which should also include accommodation, transportation, park fees, and other activities during your safari adventure.

Complete Guide to Tanzania Student Visas and Online Application Process

When planning academic-related travel to Tanzania as part of a broader Tanzania Zanzibar safari experience, understanding the student visa requirements is essential. Let me walk you through the detailed requirements for student visas and explain the entire online application process.

Student Visa Categories and Fee Structure

Tanzania offers several categories of student visas based on your academic program’s duration. The fee structure corresponds directly to how long you’ll be studying in the country:

For short-term academic programs lasting less than three months, you’ll pay a relatively modest fee of 50 USD. This is ideal for brief research projects, short courses, or educational components added to your Tanzania Zanzibar safari itinerary.

For academic programs extending beyond three months, the fee structure becomes more complex, with three possible tiers:

250 USD: Standard long-term student programs
300 USD: Certain specialized research or educational programs
550 USD: Comprehensive degree programs or extensive research initiatives

These long-term student visas provide authorization for a substantial period—up to two years—allowing you to complete significant academic endeavors while in Tanzania.

Age Requirements for Student Visas

An important consideration for student visa applicants involves age restrictions. For programs exceeding three months, applicants must be at least 18 years old. This age threshold reflects Tanzania’s legal definition of adulthood and the increased responsibility associated with longer-term residency.

If a prospective student is under 18 years old, additional requirements apply. The minor must have a parent or guardian who either:

Holds Tanzanian citizenship, or
Possesses a valid Residence Permit for Tanzania

This requirement ensures that minors pursuing education in Tanzania have appropriate adult supervision and legal representation within the country.

Payment Methods for Visa Fees

Tanzania’s immigration system offers several convenient payment options for processing your visa fees:

Credit card payments provide the most straightforward method, with both Visa and MasterCard accepted through the secure online portal. This allows for immediate payment verification and typically results in faster application processing.

For those unable to use credit cards, Swift bank transfers offer an alternative. This method involves depositing the exact visa fee amount directly into the designated government bank account at your local bank. While effective, this method may require additional processing time compared to credit card payments.

After successfully submitting your payment, you’ll receive an automatic notification confirming receipt. However, it’s crucial to understand that payment alone doesn’t constitute visa approval. You must await official approval confirmation before commencing your journey to Tanzania.

Step-by-Step Online Visa Application Process

The Tanzania e-Visa application process follows a logical sequence designed to collect all necessary information and documentation. Here’s how to navigate it:

Begin by visiting Tanzania’s official Immigration Services website at www.immigration.go.tz, which serves as the gateway to all immigration services.
Look for and click the “e-Services” button prominently displayed on the homepage, which will direct you to various electronic immigration services.
From the available options, select “e-Visa Application Form,” which will open the dedicated visa application portal.
Carefully prepare and upload all required documentation specific to your visa category. For student visas, this typically includes your passport data page, acceptance letter from a Tanzanian educational institution, and proof of financial means.
After submitting your initial information, you’ll receive an email containing your unique User Identification Number. This valuable tracking code allows you to monitor your application status throughout the process.
Complete all required fields in the application form, ensuring accurate information for each section.
Proceed to the payment portal to submit the appropriate visa fee using one of the accepted payment methods described earlier.
Upon successful payment verification, you’ll be able to submit your completed application for review.
A confirmation message will appear, and you’ll receive an email acknowledging receipt of your application. This marks the beginning of the processing period.

Tracking Your Visa Application

Tanzania’s immigration system provides a transparent tracking mechanism that allows you to monitor your application’s progress:

The simplest tracking method involves using your assigned ID Number through the original visa application system. Simply return to the visa portal and click the “Visa Status” button to check for updates.

While automated email notifications will be sent to the address provided during application, it’s advisable to proactively check your application status periodically. This helps ensure you don’t miss important updates due to email delivery issues.

The processing timeline varies depending on your nationality and visa category. Standard applications typically process within 10 business days, while applications from Referral Visa countries may require substantially longer processing times.

Getting Help During the Application Process

If you encounter questions or challenges during your visa application process, Tanzania’s immigration department provides dedicated support:

The primary contact method for visa-related inquiries is through email at info@immigration.go.tz. This channel connects you directly with immigration officers who can provide clarification on requirements, document specifications, or application status.

When communicating with immigration services, always include your application ID number to help officials quickly locate your specific case file and provide relevant assistance.

By understanding these detailed requirements and procedures for Tanzania’s student visa application process, you can ensure your academic journey or educational component of your Tanzania Zanzibar safari proceeds smoothly, allowing you to focus on your studies and the remarkable experiences that await in this beautiful East African nation.

Essential Guidelines for Tanzania Visa Applications: A Complete Summary

When planning your Tanzania Zanzibar safari experience, understanding these key visa regulations will help ensure a smooth application process and entry into the country. Let me walk you through these important points with clarity and context.

Tourist Visa Category Selection

Most international visitors planning a Tanzania vacation should apply for the standard Ordinary Visa, which costs $50 and allows a single entry with up to 90 days stay. However, American citizens represent a notable exception to this rule. Due to a bilateral agreement between Tanzania and the United States, all US passport holders must apply for a Multiple Entry Visa (costing $100) even if they only plan to visit once for tourism purposes. This special requirement applies exclusively to American travelers and reflects specific diplomatic arrangements between the two nations.

Destination Selection for Multi-Location Trips

If your Tanzania Zanzibar safari itinerary includes both mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar (which is semi-autonomous with its own immigration procedures), you need to specify your first destination when completing your visa application. This information helps immigration authorities properly process your entry documentation and ensures the correct office handles your initial approval. For example, if you’ll land in Dar es Salaam before traveling to Zanzibar, select “Tanzania Mainland” as your first destination.

Embassy Interview Possibilities

The application system may identify your “nearby Embassy” as part of the process. This refers to the Tanzanian diplomatic mission closest to your current location while applying. In certain circumstances—particularly for applicants from countries in the Referral Visa category or with unusual travel patterns—you might be requested to appear in person at this embassy for an interview. While rare for typical tourists, this possibility exists within the visa system as an additional security measure.

Individual Applications Required for All Travelers

Each traveler, regardless of age, must have their own separate visa application. This requirement extends to infants and children, even if they’re traveling on a parent’s passport. Parents cannot simply include children on their own applications; each family member needs individual processing and approval. This policy ensures proper documentation and tracking of all visitors entering Tanzania, regardless of age.

Post-Submission Application Changes

Once you’ve submitted your visa application, no further modifications can be made to the information provided. If you discover errors in your submission or experience flight changes affecting your arrival or departure dates, you cannot simply edit the application. Instead, you must contact Tanzania’s immigration authorities directly for guidance on how to address these changes. This highlights the importance of carefully reviewing all information before final submission.

Business Visa Limitations

The Business Visa, while appropriate for short-term professional activities, cannot substitute for a Residence Permit for longer stays. Importantly, Business Visa holders cannot extend or renew their visa while remaining in Tanzania. If your business activities will exceed the standard 90-day limit, you should apply for a Residence Permit before arrival rather than attempting to convert or extend a Business Visa once in the country.

Multiple Entry Visa Requirements

Non-American applicants seeking Multiple Entry Visas must carefully adhere to the specific documentation requirements for their particular category (family visit, company director, government consultant, etc.). Applications lacking any required documents will be automatically disqualified. Each category has distinct supporting document requirements, so thorough preparation is essential to avoid rejection.

Multiple Entry Visa Usage Limitations

While Multiple Entry Visas allow stays of up to 90 days per visit within a 12-month validity period, they aren’t designed for living in Tanzania long-term through repeated back-to-back visits. Immigration authorities monitor travel patterns and may question travelers who appear to be using Multiple Entry Visas to circumvent residence permit requirements. The visa is designed for genuine multiple short visits, not continuous residency with brief departures.

Transit Visa Restrictions

The Transit Visa category serves a very specific purpose: allowing travelers to pass through Tanzania en route to another destination. You must provide proof of onward travel and, if applicable, a visa for your next destination country. Importantly, you cannot apply for a Transit Visa if your actual intention is tourism or sightseeing in Tanzania, even for just a few days. Such visits require a proper Ordinary or Multiple Entry Visa, depending on your nationality.

Mandatory Return Ticket Requirement

All travelers must present their return or onward tickets upon arrival in Tanzania. This requirement applies regardless of visa type and serves to verify that you plan to leave the country within your authorized stay period. Immigration officers may deny entry if you cannot demonstrate your planned departure arrangements, even with an approved visa.

Referral Visa Country Special Procedures

If your nationality appears on the Referral Visa list, you must follow special application procedures. These include applying exclusively online (never upon arrival), submitting your application at least two months before travel, awaiting explicit approval before making travel arrangements, and potentially providing additional supporting documentation. These heightened requirements reflect security protocols for certain nationalities.

Understanding these summary points will help you navigate Tanzania’s visa system effectively, allowing you to focus on the excitement of your upcoming safari adventure rather than documentation concerns. Each requirement serves a specific purpose within Tanzania’s immigration framework and, when properly followed, leads to a straightforward approval process.

CONTACT:

For more information contact the following:

The Commissioner General of Immigration Services: