That moment of panic when you realize: “Wait, do I need a visa for Tanzania?” followed by the dread of confusing government websites and uncertainty. We’ve all been there.
At Unpredictable Safaris, we’ve helped thousands of travelers navigate entry requirements, and here’s the good news: getting a Tanzania visa is straightforward when you know the exact steps. Whether you’re arriving by air or crossing from Kenya, this guide will walk you through the simplest, most reliable methods.
“In 15 years, we’ve never had a client denied entry due to visa issues when following our guidance. The key is knowing which application method suits your travel style.” – Emmanuel, Unpredictable Safaris Operations
Most travelers require a visa to enter Tanzania. This includes citizens of:
United States
Canada
United Kingdom
Australia
European Union countries
And many others
Notable Exceptions (Check Current List):
Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, Burundi (East African Community)
Some Commonwealth countries under specific agreements
Important Update:
“As of 2023, Tanzania has fully implemented its online visa system. While visas-on-arrival are still technically available at major entry points, we strongly recommend applying online in advance to avoid long queues and potential issues.”
| Method | Best For | Processing Time | Cost | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online e-Visa | Almost everyone | 10-15 business days | $50-$100 | Lowest |
| Visa on Arrival | Last-minute travelers | 1-3 hours at airport | $50-$100 | Medium (queues, possible denial) |
| Embassy/Consulate | Special cases, long stays | 2-4 weeks | $50-$100 | Low (but slow) |
The official Tanzania Immigration Services portal (eservices.immigration.go.tz) is secure and generally efficient when you apply with sufficient lead time.
You’ll need digital copies of:
Passport bio page: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond arrival date
Passport-style photo: Recent, white background, neutral expression
Travel itinerary: Flight reservations (we provide this for our clients)
Hotel reservation or invitation letter
Yellow fever certificate (if traveling from endemic country)
Visit: eservices.immigration.go.tz
Create an account with your email
Select “Ordinary Visa” for tourism
Fill the form carefully: Ensure all details match your passport exactly
Upload documents: PDF or JPG format, clear and legible
Pay the fee: $50 for single entry, $100 for multiple (credit/debit card)
Submit and note your application number
Check your email regularly for updates
Log into your account to track status
Once approved, print 2 copies of the e-Visa approval
Keep one with your passport, one in separate luggage
Common Mistake to Avoid:
“The #1 reason for e-Visa delays is passport photo issues. Use a professional service or a passport photo app. Selfies against a wall rarely meet requirements. Also, triple-check that your passport number is entered correctly!”
| Visa Type | Fee | Validity | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Entry | $50 USD | 3 months from issue | 10-15 business days |
| Multiple Entry | $100 USD | 6-12 months | 10-15 business days |
| Transit Visa | $30 USD | 7 days | 5-10 business days |
Important Notes:
Payment is non-refundable even if your application is denied
“Rush” processing is not officially offered (beware of third-party sites claiming this)
Weekends and holidays are not counted in processing time
Double-entry visas for Kenya/Tanzania combos: Apply for multiple entry
A: You need visas for both countries. However:
Get Tanzania’s multiple entry visa if entering Tanzania twice
Kenyan eVisa is also online (www.ecitizen.go.ke)
Consider the East Africa Tourist Visa ($100) if visiting Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda (but NOT if visiting Tanzania)
A: Yes, all travelers regardless of age require their own visa. Children under 16 pay the same fee as adults.
A: A single entry Tanzania visa covers mainland Tanzania AND Zanzibar. No separate visa needed.
A: Have all documents ready for visa-on-arrival application as backup. Arrive at airport early (3+ hours before flight). Contact Unpredictable Safaris immediately if this happens—we can assist.
A: Yes, at immigration offices in major cities, but it’s bureaucratic. Better to apply for correct duration initially.
If you must get visa on arrival at Kilimanjaro (JRO), Dar es Salaam (DAR), or Zanzibar (ZNZ) airports:
Fill the form on the plane or at kiosks
Join the “Visa on Arrival” line (often longer)
Present: Passport, 2 passport photos, completed form, cash USD ($50 or $100 exact)
Wait for processing at the counter
Our Strong Advice: Avoid this if possible. Lines can be 2+ hours during peak season (July-Oct, Dec-Jan).
Required if arriving from a country with yellow fever risk (most of sub-Saharan Africa, parts of South America)
Certificate must be obtained at least 10 days before travel
Even if transiting through a yellow fever country for 12+ hours, you may need proof
Exemption: Children under 1 year
Where to get it: Approved yellow fever vaccination centers in your country