Getting a Tourist Visa for Tanzania
Most travelers need a Tanzania visa before entering the country, whether for Kilimanjaro trekking, Serengeti safari, or Zanzibar holidays. This guide gives you the exact eVisa steps, fees, timing, and documents so your arrival is smooth and stress-free.
Quick Summary
- •Most visitors need a visa — the official eVisa is the easiest option
- •Tourist visa fees: USD $50 (most nationalities) or USD $100 (USA & some others)
- •Apply up to 3 months before travel, allow 5-10 business days for processing
- •Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your entry date
Who needs a visa?
Most foreign nationals require a visa to enter the United Republic of Tanzania (including mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar). A small number of countries benefit from visa exemption or simplified entry — always confirm your specific requirements before travel.
East African Community (EAC) nationals: Citizens of Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and South Sudan have special provisions and may not require a visa. Check current regulations with the Immigration Department.
Types of visas
Single-Entry Tourist Visa
Most common for leisure travelers, safaris, and Kilimanjaro climbs.
Validity: Up to 90 days
Fee: USD $50 (most nationalities)
Multiple-Entry Visa
Required for USA passport holders and if you plan to exit and re-enter Tanzania (e.g., visiting Kenya).
Validity: Up to 12 months
Fee: USD $100
Transit Visa
For travelers passing through Tanzania en route to another destination.
Validity: Typically 7 days
Fee: USD $30
Business Visa
For business meetings, conferences, or commercial activities.
Validity: Varies
Fee: Varies by type
How to apply
Option 1: Online eVisa (Recommended)
The fastest and most convenient method. Apply from anywhere in the world.
- Visit the official portal: eservices.immigration.go.tz
- Create an account with your email address
- Complete the online application form
- Upload required documents (passport photo, passport bio page)
- Pay online via credit/debit card
- Receive approval via email (usually 5-10 business days)
- Print your eVisa approval to present at immigration
Pro tip: Apply at least 2 weeks before your travel date to allow for processing time.
Option 2: Tanzanian Embassy or Consulate
If you prefer in-person service or cannot pay online.
Find your nearest Tanzanian diplomatic mission and apply in person. Processing times may be longer than the eVisa route.
Option 3: Visa on Arrival
Available at major entry points (Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar airports and some land borders).
Note: Not recommended due to long queues, potential delays, and limited payment options. Always better to arrange in advance.
Fees & processing time
| Visa type | Nationality | Fee (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Single-Entry Tourist | Most countries | $50 |
| Multiple-Entry | USA & selected countries | $100 |
| Transit Visa | All countries | $30 |
eVisa applications typically process in 5-10 business days. Some approvals come through in 24-48 hours, but always allow extra time.
Online payment via credit/debit card (Visa, Mastercard). Fees are non-refundable once paid.
Important: Fees can change. Always verify current rates on the official eVisa portal before applying.
Required documents
Valid passport
Must be valid for at least 6 months from your entry date into Tanzania. Must have at least 2 blank pages for stamps.
Passport photo
Recent passport-style photo in digital format (JPEG/PNG). Must be clear, against a white background.
Passport bio page copy
Scanned copy or clear photo of your passport information page.
Travel itinerary
Flight bookings, hotel reservations, or tour confirmation (may be requested for verification).
Yellow fever certificate
Required if arriving from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic country. Carry your vaccination certificate with you.
Visa on arrival
If you arrive without an eVisa, you can apply for a visa on arrival at international airports (Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar) and some land borders.
Why we don't recommend visa on arrival
- •Long queues: Especially during peak travel seasons (December-March, July-October)
- •Limited payment options: USD cash often required; not all entry points accept cards
- •Unpredictable process: Immigration officers have discretion; approval not guaranteed
- •Higher stress: After a long flight, dealing with visa paperwork adds unnecessary pressure
Our advice: Always arrange your eVisa before departure for a smooth, stress-free arrival.
Visa exemptions
A limited number of countries enjoy visa-free or simplified entry to Tanzania for specific periods:
East African Community (EAC) members
Citizens of Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and South Sudan have special provisions and typically do not require a visa.
Commonwealth & select African nations
Some Commonwealth members and African nations may have simpler or fee-waived entry. Requirements vary by nationality.
Diplomatic & official passports
Holders of diplomatic or official passports may be exempt depending on bilateral agreements.
Always verify: Check with the Tanzania Immigration Department or your nearest Tanzanian embassy to confirm if you qualify for an exemption.
Troubleshooting common issues
❌ Payment declined or not processing
- • Contact your bank to ensure international transactions are enabled
- • Try a different credit/debit card (Visa and Mastercard work best)
- • Clear your browser cache or try a different browser
- • Use a VPN if accessing from a restricted region
⏳ Processing delays
- • Most delays are due to unclear or incomplete documents
- • Ensure passport scans are high-quality and all text is readable
- • Double-check all information matches your passport exactly
- • If delayed beyond 10 business days, contact the eVisa support team
📄 Lost eVisa approval
- • Log back into the eVisa portal using your credentials
- • Download and print your approval again
- • Always keep digital and printed copies when traveling
🚨 Issues at immigration
- • Present your eVisa approval letter or stamped passport
- • Have return/onward flight tickets readily available
- • Show proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or tour voucher)
- • Carry proof of sufficient funds (credit card, cash, bank statement)
- • Be patient and polite with immigration officers
Arrival checklist
Have these ready when you land in Tanzania:
Need help with your visa?
Our team at Masatu Tours has guided thousands of travelers through the Tanzania visa process. If you encounter difficulties or want personalized advice, we're here to help.
Final reminders
Visa policies can change. Always verify current requirements on official government resources before applying.
Give yourself time. Apply at least 2-3 weeks before your travel date to account for processing delays.
Keep backups. Maintain both digital and physical copies of all your documents (passport, visa, tickets, insurance).
Travel insurance matters. Comprehensive coverage can save you significant hassle and expense if visa or travel issues arise.
Tanzania welcomes millions of tourists each year. With proper preparation, the visa process is straightforward, and soon you'll be exploring the Serengeti, summiting Kilimanjaro, or relaxing on Zanzibar's pristine beaches.
