Travel Visa Information
Tanzania Travel Visa Information
If you are planning to visit Tanzania, it is important to know the visa requirements to avoid any inconveniences. Tanzania has strict visa regulations, and it is essential to have the right documentation to enter the country legally. In this article, we will provide you with all the necessary information you need to know about Tanzania travel visa requirements.
Who Needs a Visa to Enter Tanzania?
All foreigners require a visa to enter Tanzania, except for citizens of certain countries that have agreements with Tanzania allowing visa-free travel. Visitors can apply for a visa at a Tanzanian Embassy or High Commission in their country of residence or at the point of entry into Tanzania.
Tanzania Visa Types
Tanzania offers various types of visas depending on the nature and purpose of your visit. The following are the types of visas available in Tanzania:
Ordinary/Single Entry Visa
This visa allows visitors to enter Tanzania once and stay for a maximum of 90 days. It is suitable for tourists and business visitors who plan to visit Tanzania for a short period.
Multiple Entry Visa
A multiple-entry visa allows the holder to enter and leave Tanzania multiple times within the visa’s validity period. This visa is suitable for visitors who frequently travel to Tanzania for business or other purposes.
Business Visa
A business visa is issued to individuals who plan to visit Tanzania for business purposes such as attending meetings, conferences, or training sessions.
Transit Visa
A transit visa is issued to individuals who are passing through Tanzania to a different destination. The visa allows the holder to stay in Tanzania for up to 7 days.
Tanzania Visa Requirements
To apply for a Tanzania visa, you need to meet the following requirements:
Passport Requirements
Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Tanzania. The passport should have at least two blank pages for visa endorsement.
Visa Application Forms
You need to fill in a visa application form accurately and honestly. The application forms are available at Tanzanian Embassies and High Commissions or online.
Visa Application Fees
Visa fees vary depending on the type and duration of the visa. Payment can be made in cash, bank draft, or money order.
Supporting Documents
You must provide the following documents when applying for a Tanzania visa:
- A passport-sized photograph
- Proof of accommodation in Tanzania
- A return ticket or proof of onward travel
- A letter from your employer or educational institution stating the reason for your visit (for business and education purposes)
Tanzania Visa Application Process
To apply for a Tanzania visa, you need to follow these steps:
Step 1: Fill out the visa application form
The visa application form is available at the Tanzanian Embassy or High Commission in your country or on the Tanzanian Immigration website. You need to fill out the form accurately and honestly, providing all the necessary information required.
Step 2: Submit the visa application
After filling out the visa application form, you need to submit it along with the required documents and visa application fee. The required documents may vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for, but generally include:
- A valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining
- A recent passport-size photograph
- Proof of onward travel (e.g. return flight tickets)
- Proof of accommodation (e.g. hotel reservations)
- Proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay in Tanzania
You can submit your visa application in person or by mail at the Tanzanian Embassy or High Commission in your country or through the online eVisa system.
Step 3: Wait for the visa to be processed
The processing time for a Tanzania visa may vary depending on the type of visa and the processing method. It usually takes 2-3 weeks for eVisa applications and up to 14 days for embassy applications. It is advisable to apply for a visa well in advance of your planned travel dates to avoid any delays or complications.
Step 4: Collect your visa
Once your visa is approved, you can collect it at the Tanzanian Embassy or High Commission in your country or through the online eVisa system. Make sure to check the validity of your visa and the number of entries allowed before you travel to Tanzania.
Tanzania Visa on Arrival
Visitors can also obtain a Tanzania visa on arrival at designated entry points such as airports and border crossings. However, it is advisable to obtain a visa in advance to avoid delays and ensure hassle-free entry into Tanzania. Visa on arrival is available for single-entry tourist visas only.
Tanzania eVisa
Tanzania has introduced an electronic visa (eVisa) system that allows visitors to apply for a visa online before traveling to Tanzania. The eVisa is convenient, as applicants can apply from anywhere in the world without having to visit a Tanzanian Embassy or High Commission. The eVisa processing time is usually between 2-3 weeks.
Tanzania Visa Extension
If you wish to stay in Tanzania for a longer period than the visa’s validity, you can apply for a visa extension at the Tanzanian Immigration Office. The application process is straightforward, but you need to provide a valid reason for the extension.
Tanzania Visa Cancellation
The Tanzania government reserves the right to cancel a visa at any time if the holder violates the visa regulations or if the government deems the holder’s presence in Tanzania to be a threat to national security.
Tanzania Visa FAQs
What is the validity of a Tanzania visa?
The validity of a Tanzania visa depends on the type of visa. Ordinary/Single Entry visas are valid for 90 days, while multiple-entry visas are valid for 12 months.
Can I extend my Tanzania visa?
Yes, you can apply for a visa extension at the Tanzanian Immigration Office.
How long does it take to process a Tanzania visa?
The processing time for a Tanzania visa may vary depending on the type of visa and the processing method. It usually takes 2-3 weeks for eVisa applications and up to 14 days for embassy applications.
Can I enter Tanzania without a visa?
No, all foreigners require a visa to enter Tanzania, except for citizens of certain countries that have agreements with Tanzania allowing visa-free travel.
How can I track my Tanzania visa application status?
You can track your visa application status by visiting the Tanzanian Immigration website or contacting the Tanzanian Embassy or High Commission in your country.
Obtaining a Tanzania visa is a crucial aspect of planning your trip to Tanzania. It is essential to have the right documentation to enter the country legally and avoid any inconveniences. The process of obtaining a Tanzania visa is straightforward, and visitors can choose between applying at the embassy, obtaining a visa on arrival, or applying for an eVisa. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free entry into Tanzania.
