How to Get a Tanzania Visa Online
Apply for a Tanzania visa online through the official eservices.immigration.go.tz portal. Most tourists need a single-entry visa ($50 USD) that takes 3-7 business days to process. Upload passport photos, passport scan, and proof of accommodation.
- Check if you need a visa. Citizens of most countries need a visa for Tanzania. US, UK, EU, Canadian, and Australian citizens all require one. Citizens of Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda get free entry. Check the official immigration website to confirm your country's requirements.
- Gather required documents. You need a passport valid for 6+ months, digital passport photo (white background, 600x600 pixels minimum), proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter), return flight ticket, and yellow fever certificate if coming from an infected area.
- Create account on official portal. Go to eservices.immigration.go.tz and create an account. Use a working email address – you'll need to verify it and receive updates here. The site works best on Chrome or Firefox.
- Fill out visa application. Select 'Ordinary Visa' then 'Tourist' or 'Business' depending on your purpose. Enter personal details exactly as they appear on your passport. Upload all documents as JPG or PNG files under 2MB each.
- Pay the visa fee. Tourist visas cost $50 USD, business visas $250 USD. Pay by credit card (Visa/MasterCard accepted). Save your payment confirmation – you'll need the reference number.
- Track your application. Check your application status by logging into your account. Processing typically takes 3-7 business days. You'll get email updates when status changes.
- Download and print your visa. Once approved, download your e-visa as a PDF. Print 2 copies – keep one as backup. The visa is valid for 90 days from issue date, allowing single entry for up to 30 days.
- Can I apply for a Tanzania visa on arrival?
- Yes, but it's more expensive ($100 vs $50 online) and involves longer queues at the airport. Online is faster and cheaper.
- What if my online application is rejected?
- You can reapply online with corrected documents or apply for visa on arrival. Common rejection reasons are poor photo quality or invalid passport scans.
- How long is the Tanzania e-visa valid?
- 90 days from issue date for single entry, allowing stays up to 30 days. You cannot extend tourist visas – you must leave and reapply.
- Do I need yellow fever vaccination for Tanzania?
- Only if you're coming from a yellow fever endemic country. This includes most of sub-Saharan Africa and parts of South America. Check CDC guidelines for your specific routing.
- Can I use the e-visa for Zanzibar?
- Yes, the Tanzania e-visa covers both mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar. You don't need separate documentation for Zanzibar.