Tanzania Visa Guide — Every Visa Type Explained
Key highlights
- Simplified e-Visa system for over 150 nationalities
- Single-entry Ordinary visas valid for up to 90 days
- Special Multiple-entry visa requirements for US citizens
- Business visas available for professional assignments and consultancy
- Volunteer and NGO visas for humanitarian work
- Transit visas for short-term stays under 7 days
- The Unified Visa system covers both Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar
- Fast online processing via the official immigration portal
Processing time
10 working days
Applications are typically processed chronologically. It is advised to apply at least two weeks before your flight.
Estimated cost
$50 - $100 for tourists
- Single Entry Ordinary Visa fee$50.00
- Multiple Entry Visa (Required for US citizens)$100.00
- Business/Volunteer Referral fees (Variable)$250.00 - $1,000.00
Requirements
- Passport must have at least two blank pages for entry/exit stamps
- Applicants must provide a clear return flight itinerary
- For Business visas, a letter of invitation from a registered Tanzanian company is required
- All applicants must declare their primary purpose of visit accurately (Tourism, Business, or Study)
- For Volunteer visas, a copy of the NGO's registration certificate is often required
- US Citizens must apply for the Multiple Entry Visa category regardless of stay duration
- Applicants must be outside of Tanzania at the time of the e-visa application
- Payment must be made via credit card or bank transfer through the official portal
Documents you'll need
- Passport valid for at least 6 months after arrival date
- Digital scan of the passport bio-data page
- A recent passport-sized photograph (digital for e-visa)
- Evidence of a return or onward airline ticket
- Proof of yellow fever vaccination (if arriving from endemic countries)
- Host invitation letter or hotel reservation details
- Business cover letter from the inviting company (for business visas)
How to apply, step by step
- 1
Select your visa type
Go to the official Tanzania Immigration e-visa website and identify your eligibility based on your nationality.
- 2
Fill out the online application
Complete the online application form with your personal, passport, and travel details. Ensure there are no typos.
- 3
Upload supporting documents
Scan and upload your passport bio-data page, a passport-sized photo, and any required supporting documents like flight tickets.
- 4
Pay the application fee
Pay the visa fee using a credit or debit card. You will receive a notification that your application is being processed.
- 5
Awaiting assessment
The Immigration Department will review your application; this usually takes around 10 business days.
- 6
Receive your Grant Notice
Once approved, you will receive a Grant Notice via email. Download and print this document.
- 7
Entry to Tanzania
Present your printed Grant Notice and original passport to the immigration officer at your arrival airport or border post.
Tips to avoid refusal
- Check your passport expiry date; it must be valid for 6 months from your date of entry.
- Use a high-quality scanner for your documents; blurry photos are a common cause for rejection.
- US citizens must select 'Multiple Entry' on the form or risk their application being sent back.
- Ensure your flight itinerary matches the dates provided in your application precisely.
- Print two copies of your E-visa Grant Notice—one for your bags and one to keep on your person.
- Do not apply for a tourist visa if you intended to do any form of work, including photography for profit.
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.