Can I work while studying in Tanzania?

A student permit does not authorize employment. You need a separate work permit. Limited on-campus opportunities may be available through your institution.

How much does it cost to study in Tanzania?

Tuition $2,000-$8,000/year at public universities. Living costs $300-$600/month. Visa/permit fees $300-$600/year.

Are there scholarships for international students?

Yes - government scholarships, African Union, DAAD, Commonwealth, Fulbright, and university-specific scholarships are available.

Do EAC students need a student visa?

EAC citizens don't need an entry visa but should apply for a student residence permit for stays over 90 days. Simplified process and reduced fees may apply.

Tanzania Student Visa 2026

Q: Do I need a special student visa to study in Tanzania?

You can enter on a tourist visa, then apply for a student residence permit (Class C) through your institution. The residence permit is the key requirement.

Foreign students wishing to study in Tanzania need to obtain a student visa (entry permit) followed by a student residence permit. Tanzania is home to several respected universities and educational institutions, attracting students from across Africa and beyond. This guide covers the complete process from application to arrival.

Key Facts: Enter Tanzania on a student visa or tourist visa, then apply for a Class C residence permit through your institution. You need an admission letter from a recognized Tanzanian institution. Working while studying requires a separate work permit.

Student Visa Process Overview

Step	Details	Cost
1. Gain Admission	Apply to and receive acceptance from a recognized Tanzanian institution	Varies
2. Entry Visa	Apply for a student entry visa at a Tanzania embassy or use e-Visa/visa on arrival	$50 - $100
3. Student Residence Permit	Apply for a Class C residence permit through your institution after arrival	$200 - $500
4. Annual Renewal	Renew residence permit annually for the duration of your studies	$200 - $500

Required Documents

For Entry Visa

Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
Admission letter from a recognized Tanzanian educational institution
Passport-size photographs
Proof of financial means (bank statements, scholarship letter, or sponsor's financial guarantee)
Return/onward ticket
Yellow fever certificate (if arriving from endemic country)

For Student Residence Permit (Class C)

Valid passport with entry visa stamp
Official admission letter from the institution
Student ID or registration confirmation
Proof of tuition payment or scholarship
Proof of financial support for living expenses (minimum $500/month recommended)
Medical certificate from a recognized health facility
Police clearance certificate from home country
Four passport-size photographs
Letter from the institution supporting your residence permit application
Completed application form (from Immigration)

Fees

Item	Fee (USD)
Entry Visa (Tourist/Student)	$50 - $100
Student Residence Permit (Class C) - Initial	$200 - $500
Student Residence Permit - Annual Renewal	$200 - $500
Late Renewal Penalty	$500+

Fees vary based on nationality and specific circumstances. Your institution's international office can provide the current exact fees.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Secure Admission

Apply to your chosen Tanzanian university or institution. Once accepted, you will receive an official admission letter. This is the most critical document for your visa application.

Apply for Entry Visa

Apply for a visa through the e-Visa portal (visa.immigration.go.tz) or at a Tanzania embassy in your country. Select the appropriate visa type and include your admission letter. Some students enter on a tourist visa and convert to a student permit after arrival.

Arrive & Register

Upon arrival in Tanzania, register at your institution. The international students office will guide you through the next steps, including the residence permit application.

Apply for Student Residence Permit

Your institution will typically assist with the Class C residence permit application. Submit all required documents to the Immigration Department. Your institution may submit the application on your behalf.

Receive Permit & Study

Once your residence permit is approved (4-8 weeks processing), collect it from Immigration. Your permit is valid for 1-2 years and must be renewed annually throughout your studies.

Working While Studying

Important information about working as an international student in Tanzania:

Student Permit Only: A student residence permit does NOT permit employment
Work Permit Required: To work while studying, you need a separate work permit (typically Class C)
On-Campus Work: Some institutions allow limited on-campus employment (research assistantships, teaching assistantships) with institutional authorization
Internships: Internships related to your course of study may be arranged through your institution with appropriate permits
Vacation Work: Working during holidays may be possible with a temporary work authorization from Immigration

The rules are strict and enforced. Working without proper authorization can result in deportation and a ban on re-entry. Always consult your institution's international office before taking any employment.

Top Universities in Tanzania

University	Location	Known For
University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM)	Dar es Salaam	Oldest and largest university. Strong in humanities, sciences, law
Muhimbili University (MUHAS)	Dar es Salaam	Health sciences, medicine, pharmacy
Sokoine University (SUA)	Morogoro	Agriculture, forestry, veterinary science
Nelson Mandela African Institute (NM-AIST)	Arusha	Science, technology, engineering (graduate)
University of Dodoma (UDOM)	Dodoma	Education, humanities, social sciences
Ardhi University	Dar es Salaam	Architecture, urban planning, real estate
State University of Zanzibar (SUZA)	Zanzibar	Tourism, marine sciences, education

Frequently Asked Questions

You can enter Tanzania on a regular tourist or entry visa, then apply for a student residence permit (Class C) through your institution. Some embassies issue a specific student entry visa. The key requirement is the Class C residence permit once you arrive and begin your studies.

A student residence permit does not authorize employment. You need a separate work permit to work. Limited on-campus opportunities (research/teaching assistantships) may be available through your institution. Always get proper authorization before any work.

Tuition for international students ranges from $2,000-$8,000 per year at public universities, with private universities charging more. Living costs are approximately $300-$600 per month in Dar es Salaam, less in smaller cities. Add visa and permit fees of $300-$600 per year.

Yes. Several scholarship opportunities exist: the Tanzania Government Scholarship (for EAC and SADC students), African Union scholarships, individual university scholarships, and external scholarships from organizations like DAAD (Germany), Commonwealth, and Fulbright (US). Check with your target university for specific offerings.

EAC citizens (Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, DRC) do not need an entry visa but should still apply for a student residence permit for stays beyond 90 days. The process is simplified and fees may be reduced under EAC protocols. Consult your institution's international office.

Quick Facts

Entry Visa: $50-$100
Residence Permit: $200-$500/year
Permit Type: Class C
Tuition: $2,000-$8,000/year
Living Costs: $300-$600/month
Working: Separate permit needed