A visa for Tanzania is a mandatory document for most foreign travelers to the country.
Tanzania's electronic visa system has revolutionized how visitors obtain entry permits, making the process faster and more convenient than traditional embassy visits.
The Tanzania eVisa is an electronic visa launched by the Tanzanian government in 2018 to boost tourism and business for international travelers.
It is an official entry permit that must be printed and presented alongside your passport when entering Tanzania.
Immigration officers verify these documents at designated border crossings, airports, and seaports throughout the country.
Types of Tanzania eVisa
Tanzania offers four distinct eVisa categories, each suitable for different travel purposes and durations.
Tourist Single-Entry eVisa
This visa suits travelers visiting Tanzania for leisure, sightseeing, or visiting family and friends.
The Single-Entry Tourist Visa allows one entry into the country with a maximum stay of 90 days.
Once you leave Tanzania, you cannot re-enter using the same visa.
Tourist Multiple-Entry eVisa
Available exclusively to U.S. passport holders, the Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa provides flexibility for travelers who need to visit Tanzania several times within a 12-month period.
While the visa remains valid for one year, each individual stay cannot exceed 90 days, and the total time spent in Tanzania throughout the year cannot surpass 90 days.
Business Single-Entry eVisa
Business travelers attending conferences, meetings, or conducting negotiations can apply for the Business Single-Entry Visa.
This 90-day visa enables professional activities but strictly prohibits paid employment within Tanzania.
Business visa applicants must provide additional documentation, including invitation letters from Tanzanian business partners.
Transit eVisa
Travelers passing through Tanzania en route to other destinations need a Transit Visa for stays of up to 7 days.
This visa type requires proof of onward travel and detailed transit itinerary information.
Processing times may extend up to 10 working days, so plan accordingly if you have connecting flights.
Requirements to Get a Visa for Tanzania
Before starting a Tanzania eVisa application, it is necessary to gather certain essential documents.
Universal requirements for all Tanzania visa types are:
- Digital photo of your face (smartphone or computer camera quality acceptable)
- Passport with at least 6 months remaining validity from your planned arrival date
- Return flight ticket or onward travel documentation
Additional conditions for a Business Visa include:
- Invitation letter from a Tanzanian business partner
- Certificate of incorporation from the Tanzanian company you're visiting
For a Transit Visa to Tanzania, travelers may need:
- Complete flight itinerary showing entry and exit from Tanzania
- Letter to the Immigration Department explaining your transit journey details
Remember that holding a Tanzania eVisa doesn't guarantee entry.
Immigration officers retain the authority to deny entry if you fail to meet arrival requirements or provide satisfactory answers about your visit's purpose.
Tanzania eVisa Application Process
Before starting the application process, check if your internet connection is stable.
Obtaining a Tanzania eVisa involves several straightforward steps:
- Check eligibility: Verify that your nationality qualifies for the eVisa program. Most countries are eligible, but requirements can vary based on your citizenship and travel purpose.
- Complete the online form: Access the official application portal and provide accurate personal information, travel dates, and purpose of visit.
- Upload required documents: Submit clear, legible copies of your required documents. Make sure passport photos show all text clearly and that the facial picture meets basic standards.
- Pay visa fees: Process payment using secure online methods, including credit cards, debit cards, or other available payment options. Keep your payment confirmation for your records.
- Await processing: Monitor your email for updates and approval notifications. Processing typically takes up to 10 business days, though times can vary based on application volume.
Once approved, you'll receive a PDF of the visa for Tanzania via email.
Print this document in color or black and white — digital copies on phones or tablets are not accepted at immigration checkpoints.
Validity and Period of Stay in Tanzania
Understanding visa validity periods helps visitors plan their travel dates effectively.
Single-Entry Tourist and Business Visa for Tanzania can be used for one month from your specified arrival date and allows for a continuous stay of up to 90 days before becoming inactive upon exiting the country.
The Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa, which is exclusively for U.S. citizens, is good for 12 months from the date of issue.
This visa allows for several visits, but no single stay can be longer than 90 days, and the total time in Tanzania cannot exceed 90 days within the year.
For travelers just passing through Tanzania, the Transit Visa remains effective for 7 days from arrival.
Ports Supporting Tanzania eVisa
Travelers holding a Tanzania eVisa can enter the country through specific designated ports.
These include international airports and key land borders, ensuring convenient access for visitors:
Airports:
- Julius Nyerere International Airport (JNIA) in Dar es Salaam
- Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA) near Arusha
- Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (AAKIA) in Zanzibar
Land Borders:
- Namanga (border with Kenya)
- Tunduma (border with Zambia)
All seaports in Tanzania support electronic visas.
It is vital for travelers to enter Tanzania through these official ports to validate their eVisa and comply with immigration regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I extend my Tanzania eVisa once I'm in the country?
No, Tanzania eVisas cannot be extended. If you need to stay longer than your visa permits, you must exit the country and apply for a new visa. - What happens if my passport expires after receiving my Electronic Visa for Tanzania?
Your eVisa becomes invalid if your passport expires or changes. The visa is electronically linked to your specific passport, so you'll need a new visa application with your new passport information. - Can I work in Tanzania with a Tourist or Business eVisa?
No, employment is strictly prohibited on Tourist and Business eVisas. If you plan to work in Tanzania, you must apply for an appropriate work permit. - How long does it take to process an eVisa for Tanzania?
The processing time for a Tanzanian eVisa is typically about 10 business days. However, it’s advisable to apply well in advance of your planned travel date to avoid any delays. - Do I need a printed copy of my eVisa to enter Tanzania?
While your eVisa is electronically linked to your passport, it’s recommended to carry a printed copy of the visa approval document for reference during entry procedures.
Conclusion
By understanding the Tanzania visa requirements, choosing the right type, and allowing enough processing time, travelers can make their entry into Tanzania smoother.
Remember to apply at least 2 weeks before your departure to account for processing times and potential delays.
Keep your printed Tanzania eVisa and valid passport easily accessible during travel, and make sure all your documentation remains current throughout your stay.
