Emergency Consular Services in Canada
The Tanzania High Commission in Ottawa provides emergency consular assistance to Tanzanian citizens in Canada who face urgent situations, including lost documents, arrests, medical emergencies, and repatriation.
Emergency Travel Documents
If your passport is lost, stolen, or damaged and you need to travel urgently, the Tanzania High Commission can issue an Emergency Travel Document (ETD). This document allows you to travel back to Tanzania or, in some cases, to a third country.
Requirements:
- Police report (for lost or stolen passports)
- Any available copies of your lost/stolen passport
- Two recent passport-sized photographs
- Proof of Tanzanian citizenship (birth certificate, national ID, or old passport copy)
- Confirmed travel itinerary or flight booking
- Fee: CAD $80
Processing:
| Document | Processing Time | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| Emergency Travel Document | 1-3 business days | Single journey, up to 3 months |
| Emergency Passport Replacement | 4-8 weeks | Full passport validity (5 or 10 years) |
Lost or Stolen Passport Procedure
Report the loss or theft to your local Canadian police. Obtain a copy of the police report or case number.
Call (+1 613) 232-1509 or email ottawa@nje.go.tz to report the lost passport and request guidance on next steps.
Collect your police report, any copies of the lost passport, proof of identity, two photos, and proof of Canadian residence.
Submit your application at the High Commission for a replacement passport or emergency travel document depending on urgency.
Arrest or Detention Assistance
If a Tanzanian citizen is arrested or detained in Canada, the High Commission can provide the following consular assistance:
- Consular Visit: A consular officer can visit you in detention to check on your welfare
- Legal Representation: Help you find a local lawyer (fees are your responsibility)
- Family Notification: Notify your family members in Tanzania or elsewhere
- Fair Treatment: Ensure you are treated fairly under Canadian law
- Translation: Assist with communication if there are language barriers
Medical Emergencies
In a medical emergency in Canada, always call 911 first. The Tanzania High Commission can then assist with:
- Contacting your family in Tanzania to inform them of the situation
- Helping to coordinate with hospitals and medical providers
- Assisting with medical evacuation arrangements to Tanzania if necessary
- Facilitating financial transfers from family in Tanzania
The High Commission cannot pay for medical treatment. Tanzanian citizens in Canada are strongly advised to maintain comprehensive health insurance.
Death of a Tanzanian Citizen in Canada
In the event of the death of a Tanzanian citizen in Canada, the High Commission can assist the family with:
- Registering the death and obtaining a death certificate from Canadian authorities
- Notifying the family in Tanzania
- Arranging repatriation of remains to Tanzania (costs borne by the family)
- Assisting with documentation for local burial in Canada if preferred
- Providing guidance on handling the deceased's personal effects and financial matters
Natural Disasters and Crisis Situations
During natural disasters, severe weather events, or other crisis situations in Canada affecting Tanzanian citizens:
- The High Commission monitors the situation and coordinates with Canadian authorities
- Tanzanian citizens are encouraged to register with the High Commission for emergency notifications
- Emergency evacuation assistance may be provided where necessary
- Follow instructions from local Canadian emergency services
Emergency Contacts
- Canadian Emergency: 911
- High Commission: (+1 613) 232-1509
- Email: ottawa@nje.go.tz
Canada Services
Before You Travel
- Register with the High Commission
- Keep copies of your passport
- Purchase travel/health insurance
- Share your itinerary with family
- Save High Commission number in your phone