Quick Facts
Most international visitors require a visa to enter Tanzania. Citizens of a small number of countries (Burundi, DRC, Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, Zambia, and a few others) can enter visa-free for tourism. The eVisa system is the most common entry method: apply online, pay via debit/credit card, receive a digital visa via email, and present it at immigration upon arrival. Processing time is 1–3 business days.
How to Apply for an eVisa (Step-by-Step)
- Visit tanzaniaevisa.org (official Tanzanian government site)
- Select visa type: “Ordinary Visa (Tourism)” for most safari visitors
- Enter your personal details, passport information, and travel dates
- Upload a scanned copy of your passport biographical page (colour, clear)
- Upload a recent passport-sized photograph (white background, 35×45mm or digital equivalent)
- Pay the visa fee (USD 50 for a single-entry tourism visa) via Visa/Mastercard
- Receive confirmation email with your eVisa (usually within 24 hours)
- Print the eVisa and present it at immigration — no physical sticker needed
Required Documents
- Valid passport with minimum 6 months validity beyond your intended departure
- Return flight ticket or proof of onward travel
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate (required if arriving from endemic countries)
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking, safari operator booking)
- Proof of funds (bank statement, credit card)
Visa on Arrival
If you did not obtain an eVisa in advance, tourist visas are available on arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), Julius Nyerere International Airport (Dar), and other ports of entry. Processing is quick (15–30 minutes), but bring USD 50 cash as backup. eVisa is strongly preferred as it avoids delays.
Visa-Free Countries
Citizens of Burundi, DRC, Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, Zambia, and a handful of others enter visa-free for up to 90 days. Check the official list at the Tanzanian Immigration website for your country.
Zanzibar Entry
Zanzibar is part of Tanzania; your Tanzania visa covers Zanzibar. No separate visa required. Immigration at Zanzibar airport follows the same process.
Common Mistakes
- Passport Validity: Passport must be valid for 6+ months from departure, not just your safari dates
- Wrong Visa Type: Select “Ordinary Visa (Tourism)” — business and other types have different requirements
- Poor Passport Scan: Use colour, high-resolution scans of your biographical page
- Relying on Visa on Arrival: eVisa is faster and more reliable; always apply in advance
- Yellow Fever Certificate: Carry your original certificate if required for your origin country
Official Tanzanian Immigration: tanzaniaevisa.org · Tanzanian Embassy (your country): check your government’s website for contact details · SAT team: We can advise on visa requirements for your nationality and assist with questions.