A Tanzania Visa is one of the essential documents every traveler needs when planning a safari in Tanzania, whether you’re exploring the Serengeti, Ngorongoro, or relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Zanzibar. Securing a visa is the first step when preparing for a safari, and here’s a detailed step-by-step guide on how to apply for a Tanzania visa.

Who Needs a Tanzania Visa?

Most travelers require a visa to enter Tanzania, but citizens from some specific countries enjoy visa-free access. It’s important to check if your country is on the visa-free list on Tanzania’s official immigration website. If your country is not listed, you will need to apply for a visa. Some countries also require a referral visa, which needs prior approval from Tanzania’s Immigration Department.

Application Methods

There are three primary ways to obtain a Tanzania Visa:

1. Online Application (e-Visa)
   The e-Visa is the most convenient and fastest option. Applying online avoids long lines at immigration, and you’ll have your visa ready before traveling.
2. Visa on Arrival
   Available at select entry points, this option requires a valid passport, a return or onward ticket, and cash payment for the visa fee. However, from January 30th, 2025, visa fees will be discounted, and the eVisa will become the preferred method for obtaining a visa.
3. Embassy Application
   For travelers who require special visas (e.g., referral visas), applying through a Tanzanian Embassy is another option.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Tanzania Visa (e-Visa)

1. Access the Official Tanzania eVisa Portal
   Visit the official e-Visa portal here. You will find the following options on the homepage:
   • Apply for a New Visa – Start a new application.
   • Continue Application – Resume an ongoing application.
   • Check Visa Status – Track your application status.
2. Start a New Visa Application
   After clicking “Apply for a New Visa,” provide basic information to generate your application ID:
   • Email address
   • Passport number
   • Passport issue country
   • Security question and answer Once completed, click “Start New Application” to continue.
3. Fill Out Personal Information
   Provide your full name, gender, marital status, birth details, nationality, and residence status. Double-check the information to match your passport, then click “Save and Continue.”
4. Enter Your Contact Information
   Fill in your telephone number, email address, physical address, and employment details. Once completed, click “Save and Continue.”
5. Provide Passport Information
   Enter details about your passport, including the passport type, number, country of issue, place of issue, issuance date, and expiration date. Click “Save and Continue” once completed.
6. Fill in Travel Information
   Provide details about your trip:
   • The country from where you are applying
   • The nearest Tanzanian embassy
   • Purpose of visit (e.g., tourism, business)
   • Accommodation details
   • Travel dates and port of entry
   • Whether you are traveling alone or with companions
7. Upload Required Documents
   Upload the necessary documents:
   • Passport-size photo (JPEG/PNG format, max 300 KB)
   • Passport bio-data page (JPEG/PNG format, max 300 KB)
   • Travel itinerary or return ticket (PDF format, max 1 MB)
8. Declaration
   Read and agree to the terms and conditions, confirming that the information provided is accurate. Falsifying information may result in rejection.
9. Payment
   Pay the visa fee:
   • Ordinary Visa: USD 50
   • Transit Visa: USD 30
   • Multiple Entry Visa: USD 100
     Payment options include Visa, Mastercard, or online payment. After completing payment, submit your application.
10. Submit the Application and Receive Confirmation
    After payment, submit the application. You will receive a confirmation email with your application number. Save this email for tracking your application status.
11. Processing and Receiving Your eVisa
    Processing can take 2-10 business days. Once approved, you will receive your eVisa via email. Print it out and carry it with you when traveling to Tanzania.

Conclusion

The Tanzania eVisa system has simplified the visa application process. By following these clear steps and submitting your application early, you can avoid last-minute hassles and be fully prepared for your safari.