Planning to visit Tanzania? Whether it’s exploring the Serengeti, relaxing on Zanzibar’s beaches, or climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, the first step is securing your visa. With Tanzania discontinuing visas on arrival from January 30, 2025, applying for an eVisa is now essential.
This blog is your ultimate guide, providing a simple, step-by-step walkthrough of the eVisa process, covering everything from eligibility to document requirements and payments. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a frequent visitor, this guide ensures you have all the information you need to apply confidently and focus on planning your adventure.
Who Needs a Tanzania Visa?
Most travelers require a visa to enter Tanzania. However, citizens of specific countries are exempt and can enjoy visa-free access. To check if your country is on the visa-free list, visit the official Tanzania Immigration website.
If your country is not listed, you must apply for a visa. Additionally, some nationalities require a referral visa, which involves prior approval from Tanzania’s Immigration Department. It’s essential to confirm your requirements before traveling.
Application Methods
There are three main ways to obtain a Tanzania visa, each catering to different needs:
- Online Application (eVisa): The eVisa is the preferred option for most travelers. It’s fast, convenient, and can be completed online. You avoid long lines at immigration and have your visa ready before traveling.
- Visa on Arrival: This option is available at select entry points and requires a valid passport, a return or onward ticket, and cash payment for the visa fee. However, starting January 30, 2025, visas on arrival will be discontinued, making the eVisa the primary method for obtaining a visa.
- Embassy Application: For special cases, such as referral visas or travelers with unique circumstances, applying through a Tanzanian embassy may be necessary. This method is less common but still an option for those who meet specific criteria.
Now that you understand the options, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of applying for an eVisa.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Tanzania Visa
1. Access the Official Tanzania eVisa Portal
To begin your application, visit the official eVisa portal.
On the homepage, you’ll find the following options:
- Apply for a New Visa: Start a new application if you’re visiting Tanzania for the first time.
- Continue Application: Resume your application if you’ve already started and have an application ID.
- Check Visa Status: Track your application progress after submission to see if it has been approved or rejected.
The portal also provides key information to consider before applying, such as the types of visas available, required documents, and details about countries exempt from visas or requiring special approval.
Click “Apply for a New Visa” to start your application process.
2. Start a New Visa Application
After clicking “Apply for a New Visa,” you will be directed to a page where you need to provide basic information to generate an application ID. This ID will be used for future reference.
Here’s what you need to fill out:
- Email: Your valid email address for receiving updates and notifications.
- Passport Number: The number from your passport’s bio-data page.
- Passport Issue Country: Select the country where your passport was issued from the dropdown menu.
- Security Question and Answer: Choose a security question and provide an answer for account recovery purposes.
Once all fields are completed, check the “I’m not a robot” box and click “Start New Application” to proceed to the next step.
Once you submit your basic information, you’ll be redirected to a page displaying your Application ID. Make sure to record this ID in a safe place, as you’ll need it along with your security question to access or continue your application later. Click “Proceed to Next Step” to move forward.
3. Fill Out the Personal Information Section
On this page, you’ll need to provide your personal details as they appear on your passport. Ensure accuracy to avoid delays in processing.
Here’s what you’ll need to fill out:
- Full Name: First name, middle name (if applicable), and surname.
- Gender: Select male or female.
- Marital Status: Choose from the dropdown menu.
- Date and Place of Birth: Enter your birth date, country, and city of birth.
- Nationality: Provide your nationality at birth, current nationality, and residence status.
Double-check all information to ensure it matches your passport. When you’ve completed the form, click “Save and Continue” to proceed to the next section.
4. Enter Your Contact Information
In this section, you’ll need to provide your contact, address, and employment details. Ensure all information is accurate and up-to-date.
Here’s what you’ll need to fill out:
- Contact Information: Telephone number, mobile number, email address (this is where visa updates and confirmations will be sent).
- Physical Address: Present physical address, city, and country, then permanent physical address, city, and country.
- Employment Details: Employment status (select from the dropdown), employer name, and occupation.
After completing all fields, click “Save and Continue” to move on to the passport information section.
5. Provide Passport Information
In this section, you’ll need to enter details about your passport. Ensure all information is accurate and matches your official document.
Here’s what you’ll need to fill out:
- Passport Type: Select the type of passport (e.g., Ordinary, Diplomatic).
- Passport Number: Enter your passport number exactly as it appears on your document.
- Country of Issue: Select the country where your passport was issued.
- Place of Issue: Provide the city or location of passport issuance.
- Issuance Date: Enter the date your passport was issued.
- Expiry Date: Provide the date your passport will expire.
Once all the details are entered, click “Save and Continue” to proceed to the next section, which covers travel details.
6. Fill in Travel Information
In this section, you’ll provide detailed information about your travel plans and the purpose of your visit. Ensure all information is accurate and aligns with your travel itinerary.
Here’s what you need to fill out:
- Tanzania Embassy:
- Country From Where You are Applying: Select your country of residence.
- Nearby Embassy: Choose the nearest Tanzanian embassy that will handle your application if needed.
- Visit Details:
- Type of Visa Requested: Select the type of visa (e.g., ordinary, transit).
- Purpose of Visit: Choose the purpose of your trip (e.g., tourism, business).
- First-Time Visitor: Indicate if this is your first time visiting Tanzania.
- Previous Visits: Provide details of your last visit date and visa number if applicable.
- Travel Plans:
- Destination: Select your destination in Tanzania.
- Onward Country: If applicable, provide details of your onward travel.
- Port of Entry and Departure: Specify the entry and exit points (e.g., airport, land border).
- Date of Arrival: Enter your planned arrival date.
- Stay Duration: Indicate the number of days you plan to stay in Tanzania.
- Accommodation:
- Specify where you will stay (e.g., hotel, family, friends).
- Provide the physical address of your accommodation.
Countries Resided: If applicable, add the countries you have previously resided in.
After completing your travel information, you’ll be asked to provide details about your Travel Companions. Indicate whether you are traveling as part of a group or organization and if you are accompanied by any minors, then click “Save and Continue” to proceed to upload your documents.
7. Upload Required Documents
At this stage, you’ll need to upload the necessary documents to support your visa application. Ensure all files meet the required format and size guidelines.
Here’s what you’ll need to upload:
- Applicant Passport Size Photo: A recent photograph in JPEG or PNG format, with a maximum size of 300 KB.
- Applicant Passport Bio-Data Page: A scanned copy of the bio-data page of your passport, also in JPEG or PNG format, with a maximum size of 300 KB.
- Supporting Document(s): Upload a copy of your return ticket or travel itinerary in PDF format, with a size limit of 1 MB.
Once all the required documents are uploaded, click “Save and Continue” to proceed to the declaration section.
8. Declaration
Before submitting your application, you’ll need to read and agree to the terms and conditions. Confirm that all the information you’ve provided is accurate and true. Falsifying information can result in rejection, so double-check everything before proceeding.
9. Payments
The next step is paying your visa fee securely through the portal. The costs are:
- Ordinary Visa: USD 50.
- Transit Visa: USD 30.
- Multiple Entry Visa: USD 100.
Payment options include credit or debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) or online gateways. Once payment is successful, you’ll be directed to submit your application.
10. Submit the Application and Receive Confirmation
After completing the payment, click “Submit” to finalize your application. You’ll receive a confirmation email with an application number. Save this email, as you’ll need it to track your application status.
11. Processing and Receiving Your eVisa
Processing times vary between 2–10 business days. Once your application is approved, your eVisa will be emailed to you. Print the visa and carry it with you when traveling to Tanzania, as immigration officers will require a physical copy.
Getting Your Tanzania Visa Made Easy
Getting your Tanzania visa is quick and easy with the eVisa system. With clear steps and online convenience, you can complete your application quickly and avoid the long lines at immigration. Starting your application early ensures you’re fully prepared for your trip, avoiding any last-minute stress.
If you encounter any challenges, the official portal provides support and resources to assist you every step of the way. Get started today and focus on planning your unforgettable Tanzanian adventure!
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FAQs on Tanzania Visa
What types of visas are available for Tanzania?
Tanzania offers several visa types: Ordinary (tourism), Transit, Multiple Entry (frequent visits), Business, and Student visas. Each caters to specific travel purposes, with varying validity and requirements.
Which travelers need a referral visa for Tanzania?
Travelers from specific countries must obtain prior approval from Tanzania’s Immigration Department before applying. Check the official Tanzania Immigration website for the list of referral visa-required nationalities.
What documents are needed for a Tanzania visa application?
Applicants must upload a passport-sized photo, a scanned passport bio-data page, and proof of travel (e.g., return ticket or itinerary). For business or extended visas, additional documents like invitation letters may be required.
What challenges do applicants face and how can they be avoided?
Common challenges include uploading incorrect file formats, payment failures, and incomplete forms. Avoid delays by double-checking details, following size/format guidelines, and using a stable internet connection during the application process.
What steps can you take if your Tanzania visa is rejected?
If your visa is rejected, review the provided reason, correct any errors, and reapply. Contact Tanzania Immigration support if needed for clarification or assistance with reapplication.
How long is a Tanzanian visa valid, and can it be extended?
Ordinary visas are valid for up to 90 days, while multiple-entry visas can last up to a year. Extensions can be applied for at local immigration offices if required.
How can you ensure a smooth entry into Tanzania?
Carry printed copies of your visa, passport, and travel itinerary. Ensure your documents match your application details. Arrive early at immigration and have all supporting paperwork ready for inspection.
Is Zanzibar a visa-free country?
You don’t need a separate visa to visit Zanzibar; the same Tanzania visa applies. For a visa on arrival, only cash payments in US dollars are accepted. Consider applying online for an eVisa for added convenience.
What is the best currency to take to Tanzania?
The best currency to bring to Tanzania is the US dollar, which is widely accepted in airports, hotels, restaurants, tourist companies, and shops. Tanzanian Shillings are also used locally, but US dollars offer greater convenience for tourists.
How much is $100 US in Tanzania?
$100 USD is approximately 245,817 Tanzanian Shillings (TZS). Currency exchange rates can fluctuate, so it’s recommended to check the current rate before traveling or exchanging money in Tanzania.
