🇹🇿 Tanzania Visa & Entry Requirements

To enter Tanzania, citizens of most countries require a visa, which can be obtained on arrival or in advance, depending on their nationality and purpose of visit.

Visa Policy Overview

Tanzania has a moderate visa policy, with citizens of around 40 countries eligible for visa-free access, including those from neighboring countries and certain African nations. The country issues various types of visas, including tourist, business, and student visas, to cater to different visitor needs. Visitors from countries that are not eligible for visa-free access can obtain a visa on arrival or apply for an eVisa in advance.

Tanzania's visa policy aims to promote tourism and facilitate travel while maintaining national security and immigration control. The country has introduced an online visa application system to streamline the process and reduce waiting times at ports of entry. Visitors can apply for an eVisa through the official Tanzania Immigration website, which typically takes 2-3 working days to process.

Requirements By Nationality

By Visitor Type

Tourists: Tourists can obtain a visa on arrival or apply for an eVisa in advance. The typical stay is 90 days, and extensions are possible. Tourists must have a valid passport, proof of onward travel, and sufficient funds to support their stay in Tanzania.

Business Travelers: Business travelers require an invitation letter from a registered company in Tanzania and must apply for a business visa in advance. They must also have a valid passport, proof of sufficient funds, and a return ticket.

Students: Students require a student visa, which can be obtained through the Tanzanian embassy or consulate in their home country. They must have a valid passport, proof of enrollment at a Tanzanian university, and sufficient funds to support their stay.

Workers: Workers require a work permit, which can be obtained through the Tanzanian embassy or consulate in their home country. They must have a valid passport, a job offer from a registered company in Tanzania, and meet the relevant qualifications and experience requirements.

Documents Checklist

1. A valid passport with at least six months' validity
2. Completed visa application form
3. Recent passport-sized photo
4. Proof of onward travel
5. Proof of sufficient funds
6. Invitation letter (for business travelers)
7. Enrollment proof (for students)
8. Job offer letter (for workers)
9. Health insurance certificate
10. Yellow fever vaccination certificate (if traveling from a high-risk country)

Entry Points & Procedures

The main airports in Tanzania are Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam and Kilimanjaro International Airport in Arusha. Land borders are also open, with major crossing points at Namanga (Tanzania-Kenya), Kasumulu (Tanzania-Malawi), and Tunduma (Tanzania-Zambia). Upon arrival, visitors must present their travel documents, including their passport, visa (if required), and proof of onward travel. Immigration officials may also ask questions about their purpose of visit, accommodation, and plans while in Tanzania.

At ports of entry, visitors can expect to undergo security screening and have their luggage inspected. It is essential to have all required documents in order and to be prepared to answer questions from immigration officials. Visitors who are unsure about the entry requirements or procedures can contact the Tanzanian embassy or consulate in their home country for guidance.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

• Failing to obtain a visa in advance when required
• Not having a valid passport with at least six months' validity
• Insufficient proof of onward travel or sufficient funds
• Not having the required documents, such as a yellow fever vaccination certificate
• Not declaring goods or currency at customs
• Not registering with the local authorities within 24 hours of arrival (for certain nationalities)