Any international visitor traveling to Tanzania for tourism, business, or any other purposes must obtain a visa to enter both Tanzania and Zanzibar. Applicants are required to complete a straightforward online visa application.

Entry Requirements for Tanzania

To enter the United Republic of Tanzania, foreign visitors must meet the following entry requirements:

• A passport or travel document valid for at least six months.
• A residence permit or pass (if applicable).
• A valid visa, which can be obtained from a Tanzanian mission abroad or at designated entry points (Visa issuing centers).

About the Tanzania Visa

A Tanzania visa grants permission for a foreigner to enter and stay in the country for a specified duration. The visa is necessary for visitors entering Tanzania for various reasons, including tourism, holiday, business, health treatment, conferences, or other activities recognized by the country’s laws.

Types of Tanzania Visas

1. Single Entry Visa (Ordinary Visa)

This visa is issued for a single entry and is valid for a period not exceeding three months. It is ideal for tourists, those visiting family, health treatment, studies, or other legally recognized activities.

Application Requirements:

• Copy of the applicant’s valid passport (biographic data page).
• Return ticket (optional).
• Completed declaration form.
• 50 USD visa fee.

2. Multiple Entry Visa

This visa is issued for frequent visitors, including those coming for official visits, family reunions, government missions, and directors of companies who need to visit Tanzania multiple times. The validity of this visa is up to 12 months, but the holder cannot stay in Tanzania for more than three consecutive months.

Application Requirements:

• Copy of the applicant’s valid passport.
• 100 USD visa fee.
• Proof of the applicant’s connection to Tanzania (e.g., a letter from a host institution, marriage certificate, or other relevant documents).
• Return ticket (optional).

3. Gratis Visa

The Gratis Visa is issued for holders of diplomatic, service, or official passports traveling on official duty, as well as their dependents. This visa may also be granted to ordinary passport holders under specific circumstances directed by Tanzanian authorities.

4. Transit Visa

A transit visa is issued to foreign travelers who are passing through Tanzania on their way to another destination. The visa is valid for a short period, not exceeding the validity of the onward flight ticket.

Application Requirements:

• Copy of the applicant’s valid passport (biographic data page).
• 30 USD visa fee.
• Proof of onward travel (e.g., flight ticket).

5. Business Visa

This visa is issued to expatriates traveling to Tanzania for short-term assignments that do not exceed 90 days. It is ideal for professionals coming to conduct special assignments, audits, or other lawful business activities.

Application Requirements:

• Copy of the applicant’s valid passport (biographic data page).
• Return ticket.
• 250 USD visa fee.
• A work contract or proof of the assignment to be performed within three months.

6. Student Visa

A student visa is issued to foreign students coming to Tanzania for studies, either for a single entry or multiple entries.

Application Requirements:

• Copy of the applicant’s valid passport (biographic data page).
• Visa fee: 50 USD, 250 USD, or 550 USD depending on the duration and category.
• A letter from the host institution or college detailing the course and duration of the program.

7. Referral Visa

Applicants from certain countries may require special clearance before applying for a visa to Tanzania. These countries fall under the Referral Visa category, and applicants should seek permission from the Commissioner-General of Immigration.

Application Requirements:

• Passport-sized photo.
• Copy of the applicant’s valid passport (biographic data page).
• Covering letter from the host institution or individual in Tanzania.
• 50 USD visa fee.

Important Notes for Referral Visa Applicants:

• It is advisable to apply at least two months before the travel date.
• Stateless persons and refugees holding Vienna Convention documents also require a Referral Visa.