Apostille & Document Legalization 2026
Tanzania is not a member of the Hague Apostille Convention, so Tanzanian documents require full consular legalization (also called authentication or attestation) for use abroad. This guide explains the multi-step process, fees, and requirements.
Legalization Process (Step-by-Step)
Notarization
Have your document notarized by a Tanzanian notary public or advocate. This confirms the document is genuine and the signatures are authentic. Cost: TZS 10,000-50,000 per document depending on the notary.
Authentication by Issuing Authority
Depending on the document type, you may need verification from the issuing body:
- Academic certificates: Tanzania Commission for Universities (TCU) or National Examinations Council of Tanzania (NECTA)
- Birth/death/marriage certificates: Registration Insolvency and Trusteeship Agency (RITA)
- Business documents: BRELA (Business Registrations and Licensing Agency)
- Court documents: Relevant court registry
Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) Authentication
Submit the notarized document to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation in Dar es Salaam for authentication. The MOFA verifies the notary's signature and places their authentication stamp. Cost: TZS 20,000-50,000. Processing: 3-5 working days.
Location: Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kivukoni Front, Dar es Salaam
Embassy/Consulate Legalization
Finally, submit the MOFA-authenticated document to the embassy or consulate of the country where you will use the document. They will place their own legalization stamp. Fees vary by country (typically $20-100 per document).
Common Documents Requiring Legalization
| Document | Issuing Authority | Common Use |
|---|---|---|
| Birth Certificate | RITA | Immigration, citizenship applications, school enrolment abroad |
| Marriage Certificate | RITA | Spouse visa applications, family reunification |
| Academic Certificates (CSEE, ACSEE, Degree) | NECTA / University / TCU | Study abroad, credential recognition, work permits |
| Police Clearance Certificate | Tanzania Police Force | Visa applications, employment abroad |
| Commercial Documents | BRELA / TRA | International business, trade agreements |
| Power of Attorney | Advocate / Court | Legal representation abroad |
| Medical Certificates | Hospital / Medical Board | Medical visa applications, insurance claims |
| Death Certificate | RITA | Insurance claims, estate matters abroad |
Estimated Fees
| Step | Fee (TZS) | Fee (USD approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Notarization (per document) | TZS 10,000 - 50,000 | $4 - $20 |
| TCU/NECTA Verification (academic) | TZS 20,000 - 30,000 | $8 - $12 |
| RITA Verification (civil docs) | TZS 10,000 - 20,000 | $4 - $8 |
| MOFA Authentication | TZS 20,000 - 50,000 | $8 - $20 |
| Embassy Legalization | Varies by country | $20 - $100 |
Total cost per document typically ranges from TZS 100,000-300,000 ($40-$120) depending on the document type and destination country.
Processing Times
| Step | Standard | Express (if available) |
|---|---|---|
| Notarization | Same day | Same day |
| Issuing authority verification | 3-7 working days | 1-3 days (varies) |
| MOFA Authentication | 3-5 working days | 1-2 days |
| Embassy Legalization | 3-10 working days | Varies by embassy |
Total processing time: typically 2-4 weeks from start to finish. Allow extra time during busy periods.
Legalization for Tanzanians Abroad
Tanzanian citizens living abroad who need documents legalized can:
- Visit the nearest Tanzania embassy: Many embassies offer notarial services and can authenticate documents. Fees are typically $20-$50 per document.
- Use an agent in Tanzania: Appoint a trusted person or professional agent in Dar es Salaam to handle the MOFA authentication on your behalf with a power of attorney.
- Mail documents: Some embassies accept documents by post with a self-addressed return envelope and payment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Facts
- Apostille: Not available
- Process: Full consular legalization
- Total Cost: TZS 100,000-300,000
- Time: 2-4 weeks
- MOFA: Kivukoni Front, DSM