Tanzania Visa Requirements 2026
Everything you need to know about entering Tanzania, including e-Visa applications, visa on arrival, visa-free countries, and entry requirements for Zanzibar.
Tanzania e-Visa Portal
Tanzania operates an official online e-Visa system that allows travellers to apply for their visa before departure. This is the recommended method of obtaining a visa.
How to Apply for an e-Visa:
- Visit the official portal and create an account
- Select your visa type (ordinary, transit, business, or multiple entry)
- Upload required documents: passport bio page, passport-size photo, return ticket, accommodation booking
- Pay the visa fee online via credit/debit card
- Wait for processing (typically 5-10 business days)
- Print your e-Visa approval letter and present at immigration on arrival
Visa Categories & Fees
| Visa Type | Fee (USD) | Duration | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ordinary Visa | $50 | Up to 90 days | Tourism, visiting family, short stays |
| Transit Visa | $30 | Up to 7 days | Passing through Tanzania to another destination |
| Business Visa | $250 | Up to 90 days | Business meetings, conferences, commercial activities |
| Multiple Entry Visa | $100 | 12 months | Frequent visitors, multiple trips within validity |
| Gratis Visa | Free | Varies | Diplomats, official passport holders on duty |
Note: Some nationalities may be subject to higher fees. US citizens pay $100 for a single-entry visa. Fees are subject to change.
Visa on Arrival — ABOLISHED
If you previously relied on visa on arrival, you must now:
- Apply for an e-Visa at visa.immigration.go.tz
- Allow 3-10 business days for processing
- Print your e-Visa grant notice and carry it when travelling
See our complete e-Visa application guide for step-by-step instructions.
Visa-Free Entry
East African Community (EAC) Citizens
Citizens of EAC member states do not need a visa to enter Tanzania:
SADC and Other Visa-Free Countries
Several countries in southern Africa and beyond enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access:
Note: Visa-free periods and conditions vary. Check with your nearest Tanzania embassy for the latest entry requirements for your nationality.
Zanzibar Entry Requirements
Zanzibar is part of the United Republic of Tanzania, so no separate visa is needed. Your Tanzania visa covers both the mainland and Zanzibar.
- If flying directly to Zanzibar from outside Tanzania, you clear immigration at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ)
- Visa on arrival is no longer available — you must have an e-Visa before arrival
- If travelling from mainland Tanzania to Zanzibar, you typically clear a brief immigration check
- Zanzibar has its own immigration department, but visa policy aligns with mainland Tanzania
Referral Countries
Citizens of certain countries classified as "referral countries" must have their visa applications forwarded to the Immigration Department in Dar es Salaam for approval. This process takes longer (2-4 weeks) and these nationals cannot obtain a visa on arrival.
If you are from a referral country, apply well in advance through your nearest Tanzania embassy or the e-Visa portal. Contact your nearest embassy to confirm whether your nationality falls under the referral category.
Important Reminders
- Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate may be required depending on your travel history
- Visa extensions are available at Immigration offices in Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, or regional offices
- Overstaying your visa can result in fines and future entry bans
- For the latest requirements, contact your nearest Tanzania embassy
Quick Links
Required Documents
- Valid passport (6+ months)
- Passport-size photos
- Return/onward ticket
- Accommodation proof
- Sufficient funds
- Visa fee payment
- Yellow fever cert (if applicable)
Ready to Visit Tanzania?
Apply for your visa online or find your nearest embassy for assistance