Who Needs a Visa to Enter Tanzania? Your Complete 2025 Guide
Tanzania’s vast savannahs, epic wildlife spectacles, and the turquoise shores of Zanzibar place it high on many travelers’ bucket lists. But before you pack your safari hat or beach sarong, it’s crucial to understand Tanzania’s visa requirements to ensure a seamless journey.
So, do you need a visa to enter Tanzania? For most travelers, the answer is yes—but with a few important exceptions, processes, and visa types to consider.
Who Needs a Visa for Tanzania?
Most nationalities require a visa to enter Tanzania, including those from the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Some countries, like South Africa, are exempt from visa requirements for short stays. For those who do need a visa, it’s generally a straightforward process, especially for tourist visas.
Tanzania requires a visa for most foreign nationals. However, there are visa exemptions for citizens of select countries, primarily:
- East African Community (EAC) member states: Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi.
- Some Commonwealth countries: Zimbabwe, Namibia.
- Others: Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore.
Key point: Visa exemptions typically apply for stays up to 90 days for tourism or short visits. For longer stays, study, or business, a visa will still be required.
Who Must Obtain a Visa?
If you’re traveling from the USA, Canada, the UK, EU countries, Australia, New Zealand, India, China, and most Asian countries, you will need a visa to enter Tanzania. Fortunately, the Tanzania e-visa system has made obtaining one straightforward for most travelers.
Referral Visa Requirements
Certain nationalities require a Referral Visa (pre-approved visa clearance) before traveling to Tanzania. This applies to travelers from countries such as Afghanistan, Pakistan, Nigeria, Sri Lanka, Syria, and Yemen.
If you’re a citizen of a country that requires a Referral Visa:
- Apply at least three months before travel.
- Do not book non-refundable flights or accommodations until you receive approval.
- Visit the official Tanzania Immigration website for the most current referral country list before applying.
Types of Tanzanian Visas
To match your travel needs, Tanzania offers several visa categories:
1️⃣ Ordinary Visa (Single Entry)
- Valid for 90 days.
- Best for tourists, family visits, and attending short-term programs.
- Cost: $50 USD.
2️⃣ Multiple Entry Visa
- Valid for 12 months, with each stay capped at 90 days per entry.
- Ideal for travelers on frequent business, family visits, or safaris crossing into Kenya or Rwanda.
- Primarily issued to US citizens ($100 USD) but available to others with proper justification.
3️⃣ Transit Visa
- For travelers transiting to another destination, allowing up to 7 days in Tanzania.
- Cost: $30 USD.
- Requires proof of onward travel.
4️⃣ Business Visa
- Valid for up to 90 days.
- For professional duties, meetings, and short-term assignments.
- Cost: $250 USD.
5️⃣ Student Visa
- For students attending educational programs in Tanzania.
- Requires a letter of admission from the Tanzanian institution.
6️⃣ Gratis Visa
- Available for diplomats and certain officials based on agreements.
How to Apply for a Tanzania Visa
✅ Option 1: Tanzania E-Visa (Recommended)
The Tanzania e-visa system is the most efficient method for most travelers.
Steps to Apply:
- Visit the official Tanzania Immigration e-visa portal.
- Create an account and complete your application.
- Upload your passport copy, photo, and travel documents.
- Pay the fee using secure online payment.
- Wait for approval (typically within 10 business days).
- Print your approval confirmation and present it upon arrival.
Tip: Apply at least 4 weeks before your travel date.
✅ Option 2: Visa on Arrival
Most travelers not requiring a Referral Visa can obtain a visa on arrival at:
- Julius Nyerere International Airport (Dar es Salaam)
- Kilimanjaro International Airport
- Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (Zanzibar)
- Major land border crossings.
Important: Long queues are common, so if you prefer faster processing, apply online.
✅ Option 3: Embassy/Consulate Application
Ideal for travelers requiring a Referral Visa or those preferring in-person processing.
Documents Required for a Tanzanian Visa
To apply for your visa, prepare:
- A passport valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry.
- Recent passport-size photo.
- Completed visa application (online or paper).
- Proof of travel (flight bookings).
- Accommodation proof (hotel booking or host invitation).
- Payment for the visa fee.
- Additional documents for business, student, or special visas.
Tanzania Visa Fees (2025)
| Visa Type | Fee (USD) |
|---|---|
| Single Entry Visa | $50 |
| Multiple Entry Visa | $100 |
| Transit Visa | $30 |
| Business Visa | $250 |
Note: Always carry clean, crisp USD notes if paying on arrival.
Essential Tips Before Traveling to Tanzania
✅ Check current visa requirements: Policies may change, so confirm with the official website before your trip.
✅ Passport validity: Ensure your passport has at least six months’ validity beyond your intended departure date from Tanzania.
✅ Return or onward travel proof: You may be asked for documentation showing your exit plan from Tanzania.
✅ Yellow fever certificate: Required if arriving from a country with yellow fever risk.
✅ Travel insurance: Strongly recommended for medical emergencies during your safari or Zanzibar holiday.
Frequently Asked Questions
📌 Do Americans or British citizens need a visa for Tanzania?
Yes, both require a visa for entry, available via e-visa or on arrival.
📌 Can I use the same visa for Zanzibar?
Yes, Zanzibar is part of Tanzania, so your visa covers the entire country.
📌 Is Tanzania visa-free for Indian nationals?
No, Indian citizens need a visa, which can be applied for via the e-visa system or on arrival.
📌 What if I overstay my visa in Tanzania?
Overstaying may lead to fines or deportation. Always comply with your visa validity.
Ready to Plan Your Tanzania Safari?
Whether you’re planning to witness the Great Migration in the Serengeti, relax on the white sands of Zanzibar, or climb Mount Kilimanjaro, ensuring your visa is in order is the first step toward a stress-free adventure.
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