Tanzania Visa

Tanzania Visa – Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

Planning a trip to Tanzania? Whether you’re heading to the Serengeti for a safari, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, or relaxing on the beaches of Zanzibar, you’ll need to sort out your visa before you go.

Luckily, Tanzania’s visa process is pretty straightforward, but there are a few things you’ll need to know to avoid last-minute stress. From eVisas to visas on arrival, this guide covers everything you need to know about getting a Tanzania visa.

At Lauwo Adventures, we’ve helped countless travelers navigate the visa process and plan unforgettable adventures in Tanzania. Let’s break it all down so you can focus on the fun part of exploring Tanzania!

Do You Need a Visa to Enter Tanzania?

Yes, most travelers need a visa to enter Tanzania. However, a few nationalities are exempt from this requirement.

Visa-Exempt Countries

Citizens of the following countries do NOT need a visa to enter Tanzania for stays of up to 90 days:

• Kenya

• Uganda

• Rwanda

• Botswana

• Malawi

• Namibia

• Zambia

• Zimbabwe

• Singapore

• Hong Kong

👉 If you’re from one of these countries, you’ll just need a valid passport with at least 6 months of validity from your date of entry.

Types of Tanzania Visas

Tanzania offers several types of visas depending on the purpose and length of your visit.

1. Tourist Visa (Single Entry)

• Cost: $50 USD (except for U.S. citizens – $100 USD)

• Validity: Up to 90 days

• Purpose: Leisure, tourism, visiting friends and family

• Processing Time: 2–7 business days (if applying online)

👉 This is the most common visa for safari-goers and Kilimanjaro climbers.

2. Multiple Entry Visa

• Cost: $100 USD

• Validity: Up to 12 months

• Purpose: For frequent business or personal visits

• Processing Time: 2–7 business days

👉 U.S. citizens often apply for this visa if they plan to visit Tanzania multiple times within a year.

3. Business Visa

• Cost: $250 USD

• Validity: Up to 90 days

• Purpose: Business meetings, conferences, research

• Processing Time: 2–7 business days

👉 Not valid for long-term employment — for that, you’ll need a work permit.

4. Transit Visa

• Cost: $30 USD

• Validity: Up to 7 days

• Purpose: Pass through Tanzania to another destination

• Processing Time: On arrival or online

👉 If you have a layover or are traveling through Tanzania to another destination, this visa works well.

5. Student Visa

• Cost: $250 USD

• Validity: Up to 2 years

• Purpose: Studying, research, internships

• Processing Time: 2–4 weeks

👉 If you’re attending a university or participating in research, this visa is required.

How to Apply for a Tanzania Visa

Option 1: Apply for an eVisa (Online)

Tanzania introduced an eVisa system in 2018, making it easy for most travelers to apply online.

Steps to Apply:

1. Visit the official Tanzania eVisa website → https://eservices.immigration.go.tz

2. Complete the online application form.

3. Upload required documents (passport photo, passport bio page).

4. Pay the visa fee using a credit or debit card.

5. Receive your eVisa approval by email (usually within 2–7 business days).

👉 Make sure to print a copy of your eVisa confirmation — you’ll need to show it upon arrival.

Option 2: Visa on Arrival

Tanzania also offers a visa on arrival for most nationalities.

Steps for Visa on Arrival:

1. Fill out the visa form (available at the airport).

2. Present your passport (valid for at least 6 months).

3. Pay the visa fee in cash (USD preferred).

4. Receive your visa stamp.

👉 Visa on arrival is available at major entry points:

• Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)

• Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR)

• Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ)

Pro Tip: Bring crisp U.S. dollar bills; torn or damaged notes may not be accepted.

Visa Requirements

To apply for a Tanzania visa, you’ll need:
 A valid passport (with at least 6 months of validity from your date of entry)
 

• Completed visa application form (online or paper)
   
• Recent passport-sized photo
   
• Travel itinerary (hotel bookings, return flight)
   
• Proof of sufficient funds for your stay
   
• Visa fee (paid online or in cash)

Special Entry Rules for Zanzibar

Zanzibar is part of Tanzania, so the same visa applies.

• You do NOT need a separate visa for Zanzibar if you’ve already entered Tanzania.

• If you’re traveling to Zanzibar directly from another country, you’ll need to present your visa upon arrival.

Tanzania Visa Costs Overview

FAQs

1. Can I extend my Tanzania visa?
Yes! You can extend your visa at the Immigration Office in Dar es Salaam or Arusha.

2. Can I work in Tanzania on a tourist visa?
No, you’ll need a work permit for employment.

3. Can I enter Tanzania multiple times on a single-entry visa?
No, you’ll need a multiple-entry visa for that.

4. Do U.S. citizens need a visa for Tanzania?
Yes, U.S. citizens must apply for a visa and pay a $100 fee.

Plan Your Trip to Tanzania with Lauwo Adventures

Whether you’re climbing Kilimanjaro, exploring the Serengeti, or relaxing in Zanzibar, Lauwo Adventures can help you plan a stress-free trip. We’ll handle the logistics, you just focus on the adventure!

👉 Contact Lauwo Adventures today to start planning your perfect Tanzania adventure!