Tanzania’s breathtaking landscapes, incredible wildlife, and vibrant culture attract travelers from around the world. But before you embark on your adventure—whether it’s a Serengeti safari, Kilimanjaro trek, or Zanzibar beach escape—you’ll need to arrange your visa. This guide covers all the essential information about Tanzania’s visa requirements, application process, fees, and exemptions.
1. Do You Need a Visa for Tanzania?
Most foreign visitors require a visa to enter Tanzania, including travelers from:
✔ USA
✔ UK
✔ Canada
✔ Australia
✔ European Union countries
✔ India
✔ China
However, some nationalities are visa-exempt, including:
- Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, Burundi, and other East African Community (EAC) members.
- A few others (check Tanzania’s immigration website for updates).
2. Types of Tanzania Visas
A) Single-Entry Tourist Visa
- Validity: Up to 90 days
- Purpose: Tourism, safaris, Kilimanjaro climbs, Zanzibar visits
- Cost: 50USD∗∗(mostnationalities)or∗∗50USD∗∗(mostnationalities)or∗∗100 USD (USA citizens)
B) Multiple-Entry Visa
- Validity: 6-12 months
- Best for: Frequent travelers or business visitors
- Cost: $100 USD (varies by nationality)
C) Transit Visa
- Validity: 7 days
- For: Travelers passing through Tanzania to another destination
- Cost: $30 USD
D) East Africa Tourist Visa (Kenya, Rwanda & Tanzania)
- Validity: 90 days
- Allows travel between Kenya, Rwanda, and Tanzania
- Cost: $100 USD
3. How to Apply for a Tanzania Visa
Option 1: Apply Online (e-Visa) – Recommended!
✅ Fastest & easiest method (processed in 7-10 business days)
✅ Apply at: Tanzania Immigration e-Visa Portal
✅ Required Documents:
- Passport (valid for 6+ months)
- Passport-sized photo
- Travel itinerary
- Proof of accommodation
- Yellow fever certificate (if arriving from a risk country)
Option 2: Visa on Arrival (VOA)
- Available at major entry points:
- Airports: Dar es Salaam (DAR), Kilimanjaro (JRO), Zanzibar (ZNZ)
- Land borders: Namanga (Kenya), Tunduma (Zambia)
- Processing time: ~30 minutes (but lines can be long)
- Payment: Cash (USD) only
Option 3: Apply at a Tanzanian Embassy
- Required for some nationalities (check beforehand)
- Slower processing (up to 2 weeks)
4. Visa Fees & Processing Time
| Visa Type | Cost (USD) | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Single-Entry Tourist | 50−50−100 | 7-10 days (e-Visa) |
| Multiple-Entry | $100+ | 10-14 days |
| Transit Visa | $30 | 3-5 days |
| East Africa Visa | $100 | 7-10 days |
*Note: USA citizens pay $100 for a single-entry tourist visa.*
5. Important Visa Tips
✔ Apply early (at least 2-3 weeks before travel to avoid delays).
✔ Print your e-Visa approval (required for entry).
✔ Check passport validity (must have 6+ months before expiry).
✔ Yellow fever vaccination may be required if coming from an affected country.
✔ Overstaying? Fines apply ($200+), and you may face deportation.
6. Visa-Free Stopovers in Zanzibar?
- If flying directly to Zanzibar (ZNZ), you still need a Tanzania visa.
- No separate Zanzibar visa—it’s part of Tanzania.
Final Advice
Tanzania’s visa process is straightforward, especially with the e-Visa system. Whether you’re climbing Kilimanjaro, going on safari, or relaxing in Zanzibar, make sure your visa is sorted before you arrive to avoid any hassles.