Tanzania Business Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time
Key highlights
- Valid for professional meetings, consulting, and short-term repairs.
- Electronic application process (e-Visa) for most nationalities.
- Single-entry and Multiple-entry options available.
- Covers both mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar.
- Standard stay allowed for up to 90 days.
- Essential for those attending trade fairs or exhibitions.
- Required for short-term legal or audit assignments.
Processing time
7-14 working days
Processing starts only after full payment is confirmed. Referral cases for certain nationalities can take significantly longer.
Estimated cost
$250 - $500
- Single Entry (Standard)$250.00
- Multiple Entry (12 Months)$500.00
- e-Visa Service Fee (Varies)$50.00
Requirements
- Must have a passport valid for at least six months from the date of arrival.
- The passport must have at least two blank pages for entry/exit stamps.
- A formal invitation letter from a legally registered company in Tanzania.
- Proof of a return or onward flight ticket.
- The applicant must not be seeking employment in the local Tanzanian market.
- Availability of a Certificate of Incorporation for the host company.
- Applicant must provide a recent colour passport photograph.
- Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements) may be requested.
- A clear copy of the host's ID or passport.
- Payment of the appropriate visa fee via bank transfer or credit card.
Documents you'll need
- Digital passport-size photo (white background)
- Passport copy (bio-data page) with 6 months validity
- Invitation letter from the Tanzanian host company
- Certificate of Incorporation of the host company
- Full travel itinerary including flights and accommodation
- A formal cover letter from the applicant's employer
- Valid return or onward flight ticket
- Proof of sufficient funds for the duration of the stay
How to apply, step by step
- 1
Gather Required Documents
Prepare digital copies of your passport, photo, and invitation letter according to the size limits (usually 300KB for photos).
- 2
Complete the Online Application
Visit the official Tanzania e-Visa portal and create a new application, noting your Application ID for future tracking.
- 3
Upload Attachments
Upload your supporting documents, ensuring the invitation letter clearly mentions the host company's registration details.
- 4
Pay the Application Fee
Pay the visa fee using a credit card or bank transfer. Note that fees are generally non-refundable even if the visa is denied.
- 5
Monitor Application Status
Stay updated by checking the portal using your Application ID. You may receive an email notification once a decision is made.
- 6
Download the Visa Grant Notice
Once approved, download and print the ‘Grant Notice.’ You must present this to the Immigration Officer upon arrival in Tanzania.
- 7
Arrive in Tanzania
Carry physical copies of your invitation letter and host company documents to show at the border if requested.
Tips to avoid refusal
- Ensure the host company name on your invitation exactly matches their Certificate of Incorporation.
- Do not apply for a Tourist Visa if you intend to conduct any business; the penalties for the wrong visa class are severe.
- Double-check that your passport number is entered correctly; a single typo can lead to entry being denied.
- If you are a US citizen, check the specific reciprocal fee agreements as they differ from EU/UK rates.
- Apply at least 3 weeks in advance to account for any public holidays or system delays.
- Check if your nationality requires a 'Referral Visa' as this requires a much earlier application.
Frequently asked questions
Related visa guides
PermitlyHQ provides informational software tools only and does not offer legal, immigration, or consulting services. Visa policies change frequently — always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying.