Essential Guide to Tanzania Visa Arrival Process and Requirements

Planning a trip to the breathtaking landscapes of Tanzania, from the plains of the Serengeti to the peaks of Kilimanjaro, is an exciting venture.

However, navigating the entry formalities is a critical first step.

This guide provides a definitive overview of the Tanzania visa arrival process and all associated requirements, ensuring your journey begins smoothly.

Understanding whether to get a Tanzania visa online beforehand or upon arrival can save you time and potential stress at the border.

We will cover everything from eligibility and visa types to required documents and fees, making this your one-stop resource for a seamless entry into this beautiful East African nation.

Understanding the Tanzania Visa Arrival System

The Tanzania visa arrival system is a facility that allows eligible travelers to obtain their visa upon reaching a designated port of entry.

This option, commonly known as a visa on arrival, is designed for tourism and short visits. Instead of applying in advance through an embassy, you complete the process with immigration officials when you land.

This visa on arrival is typically an Ordinary Visa, which is a single-entry visa granted for a period of up to 90 days.

It's crucial for travelers to understand that this facility is not available to citizens of every country, and having all the correct documentation ready is essential for a successful application upon arrival.

The convenience of this system is a major draw, but being prepared is key to avoiding any delays after a long flight.

Types of Tanzania Visas Explained

The United Republic of Tanzania offers several types of visas to accommodate the diverse needs of its visitors.

Understanding which visa category fits your travel purpose is fundamental. The government of Tanzania has streamlined these options to cater to tourists, business travelers, and those in transit.

Here’s a breakdown of the main Tanzania visa types available to foreign nationals:

Ordinary Visa (Single Entry Visa): This is the most common type, issued for a single journey for purposes like tourism, leisure, family visits, or attending conferences. The single entry visa is typically valid for 90 days.

Multiple Entry Visa: This visa is intended for individuals who need to enter Tanzania frequently, such as directors of companies, spouses of Tanzanians, or government consultants. It's usually valid for twelve months, but the holder cannot stay for more than 90 consecutive days during each visit. Obtaining this multiple visa often requires more extensive documentation.

Business Visa: A business visa is granted to foreign nationals who intend to enter the country for short-term professional activities. This could include tasks like repairing machines, conducting special assignments, or running short-term training. This is distinct from a work permit and is for temporary engagements.

Transit Visa: A transit visa is for travelers passing through Tanzania to another destination country without leaving the airport or for a short stay of up to seven days. Applicants must provide proof of their onward journey, such as flight tickets.

Electronic Visa (e-Visa): The Tanzanian government has introduced an electronic visa system, allowing travelers to apply for their visa online before their trip. This is often the recommended route to avoid queues and uncertainty upon arrival.

Visa on Arrival in Tanzania – What to Expect

Opting for a visa on arrival in Tanzania is a straightforward process for eligible travelers.

You can obtain this visa at major international airports and designated land borders. Upon disembarking, you will be directed to the visa on arrival counter before you reach the main immigration hall.

Here’s what you should have ready:

1. A valid passport with at least six months of validity beyond your intended stay and at least one blank page.

2. A completed entry application form, which is provided at the counter.

3. Proof of onward or return ticket.

4. The visa fee in cash. It is highly recommended to have the exact amount in US Dollars ($50 for most nationalities, $100 for US citizens).

An immigration officer will review your documents, process your payment, and affix the visa sticker into your passport.

The waiting time can vary from as little as 15 minutes to over an hour, depending on how many flights have arrived at the same time.

This process is available at key entry points like Julius Nyerere International Airport (Dar es Salaam), Kilimanjaro International Airport, and Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (Zanzibar).

Applying for a Tanzania e Visa Online

To streamline the visa process and reduce waiting times upon arrival, the government of Tanzania introduced the e visa system.

This modern approach allows applicants to apply for and obtain visa approval before ever leaving home. The entire process is handled through the official immigration website, making it a convenient and secure option.

The application involves filling out an online application form with your personal details and trip information, uploading digital copies of required documents (like your passport data page and a photo), and paying the visa fee using a credit or debit card.

Once submitted, the processing time is typically around 10 business days. It is advisable to apply well in advance of your travel dates.

After approval, you will receive a confirmation of your electronic visa via email. You should print this confirmation and present it to the immigration officer upon your arrival in Tanzania. This is often the fastest way to get through immigration.

Required Documents and Entry Requirements

Whether you choose the e visa or the visa on arrival, the core entry requirements for Tanzania are consistent. Being unprepared can lead to delays or, in worst-case scenarios, denial of entry. Ensure you have all the required documents organized before you travel.

Here is a checklist of the essential items:

Valid Passport: Your travel document must have at least six months of validity from your date of entry.

Flight Tickets: You must provide proof of your travel plans, such as a return ticket or an onward ticket to your next destination.

Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate: This is mandatory only if you are arriving from a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission. Check the latest health advisories before you travel.

Proof of Accommodation: It's wise to have copies of your hotel bookings or an invitation letter if staying with friends or family.

Sufficient Funds: You may be asked to provide proof that you have enough money to support yourself during your stay.

Entry Conditions and Immigration Rules

Entry into the United Republic of Tanzania is granted at the discretion of immigration officials at the port of entry.

The legal framework governing the entry of foreign nationals is managed by the Immigration Services Department, under the leadership of the Commissioner General of Immigration.

All visitors must adhere to the entry conditions stipulated by the laws of the United Republic.

The Commissioner General has the authority to grant or deny entry, and their decision is final.

Even with a valid visa, an immigration officer can refuse entry if they suspect the traveler has illicit intentions or does not meet the full immigration requirements.

It's therefore vital to be polite, patient, and have all your documents in order to ensure a smooth passage through the control point.

Eligibility – Who Needs a Visa to Enter Tanzania?

The requirement to obtain a Tanzania visa depends on your nationality. The government of the United Republic of Tanzania has categorized foreign nationals into three main groups to determine who can enter Tanzania and under what conditions.

1. Visa-Exempt Countries: Citizens of certain countries, primarily from the East African Community (EAC) and some Southern African Development Community (SADC) nations, do not need a visa to visit Tanzania for a certain period. Always check the most current visa-exempt list.

2. Visa on Arrival & e-Visa Eligible Travelers: A large number of foreign nationals from countries like the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and most of Europe are eligible for either a visa on arrival or an e-visa. These are the most common routes for tourists.

3. Referral Visa Countries: Citizens of the following countries (e.g., Somalia, Afghanistan, Lebanon, Sierra Leone, and others), as well as stateless persons or individuals with refugee status, must apply for a special clearance in advance. This is known as a Referral Visa, and these applicants cannot obtain visa on arrival. Some individuals on special assignments or for official purposes may also fall under specific clearance protocols set by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Referral Visa Category and Special Cases

The Referral Visa Category applies to applicants from countries that require special clearance from the Commissioner General of Immigration before a visa can be issued. This process is more rigorous and takes significantly longer than a standard e visa application, often requiring a minimum of six to eight weeks.

Travelers who fall into this category must apply well in advance through a Tanzanian embassy or the online portal and cannot use the visa on arrival service. 

Additionally, Tanzania offers a special type of Business Visa for those who need to conduct special assignments, such as to run short-term training or for repairing machines. This visa has a maximum validity of 90 days. For longer-term assignments, a different permit is needed. 

The maximum period of stay and conditions vary based on the nature of the work, with some permissions extending up to twelve months.

Tanzania Visa Fees and Payment Options

The Tanzania visa fee varies depending on your citizenship and the type of visa you are applying for. It's an important note that these fees are non-refundable, regardless of the outcome of your application.

Standard Visa Fee: For most nationalities, the fee for a single-entry Ordinary Visa is $50 USD.

US Citizens: Due to a reciprocal agreement, the fee for US citizens is $100 USD for a multiple-entry visa, even if they only plan to enter once.

Other Visa Types: The fees for business, transit, and other specialized visas may differ.

When paying for a visa on arrival, you must use cash (US Dollars are preferred and should be crisp bills printed from 2009 onwards). For the e-visa, payment is made online via credit or debit card. Always confirm the current visa fee on the official Tanzanian immigration website before your trip, as these can change.

Designated Entry Points for Tanzania Visa on Arrival

The visa on arrival service is not available at every border crossing. It is crucial to use one of the officially designated entry points if you plan to get your visa upon arrival. These locations are equipped to handle the immigration process for international applicants.

The main entry points include:

Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam

Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)

Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) in Zanzibar

Namanga Border (between Tanzania and Kenya)

Tunduma Border (between Tanzania and Zambia)

Traveling through these major hubs like Dar es Salaam or Kilimanjaro International Airport ensures you will find the necessary facilities to process your Tanzania visa arrival smoothly.

Important Notes on Tanzania Immigration

When dealing with Tanzanian immigration, clarity and honesty are paramount.

Remember that a visa is for temporary entry for the following purposes: tourism, business, or transit. It is not a residence permit, which is required for anyone intending to live or work in the country for an extended period.

When filling out your application form, ensure all information is accurate and matches your travel document. You must be prepared to provide proof of your travel intentions, such as a detailed itinerary or an invitation letter.

Adhering to all visa requirements will facilitate a positive interaction with immigration officials and a welcoming start to your journey in this remarkable destination country.

Frequently Asked Questions – Tanzania Visa Guide

Conclusion – Smooth Entry to the United Republic of Tanzania

Navigating the Tanzania visa system is a manageable part of your travel preparations.

Whether you opt for the convenience of the e-visa or the flexibility of a visa on arrival, being informed and prepared is the key to a hassle-free start to your adventure.

By ensuring your passport is valid, your documents are in order, and you know which visa suits your needs, your entry into the United Republic of Tanzania will be as smooth as possible.

We hope this guide helps you confidently plan your trip and makes your decision to visit Tanzania an easy one. Always remember to check the official Tanzanian immigration website for the most up-to-date policies before your departure.