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
Visa policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying. PermitlyHQ provides general guidance and is not a substitute for legal or immigration advice.