How To Apply For a Tanzania, United Republic Of Visitor Visa | Step-by-step Guide For Tanzania, United Republic Of Tourist Visa Application

Planning a trip to Tanzania is exciting—whether it’s standing in awe at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro, witnessing the Great Migration in the Serengeti, or relaxing on the pristine beaches of Zanzibar. But before you pack your bags, one essential step awaits: securing your visitor visa.

The visa process can feel overwhelming if you’ve never done it before, especially with so many different travel rules online. The good news is that applying for a Tanzania visitor visa has become simpler and more streamlined in recent years. And with the right guidance, you can complete your application without unnecessary stress.

This guide will walk you through the entire process step by step, answer common questions, and show you how TRAVUL.ORG is making travel planning—including visas—much easier.

Who Needs a Tanzania Visitor Visa?

Most foreign nationals require a visa to enter Tanzania for tourism, leisure, or family visits. Citizens of certain countries (such as Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Malawi, and others) are exempt due to regional agreements, but travelers from the EU, US, UK, Canada, Australia, and most Asian countries will need a visa.

There are different visa categories, but if your trip is for vacation, sightseeing, or visiting friends/family, you’ll apply for a Single Entry Tourist Visa (valid for 90 days).

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Tanzania Tourist Visa

Here’s a clear breakdown of the application process.

1. Check Your Eligibility

Before anything else, confirm if you need a visa. You can do this on the official Tanzania Immigration Department website. Some travelers may qualify for visa-free entry, while others may need a referral visa (which requires prior approval before arrival).

2. Gather Required Documents

To apply successfully, you’ll need:

• A valid passport (with at least 6 months validity from your arrival date)

• A recent passport-size photo

• A return or onward flight ticket

• Proof of accommodation (hotel booking, Airbnb, or invitation letter if staying with family/friends)

• A valid payment method (credit/debit card)

Optional but useful documents:

• Travel itinerary

• Yellow fever vaccination certificate (if traveling from a yellow fever risk country)

3. Apply Online Through the e-Visa Portal

Tanzania has moved much of its visa process online, which is a huge advantage for travelers.

• Visit the official Tanzania e-Visa portal (https://visa.immigration.go.tz).

• Click “Apply for a New Visa.”

• Fill out the application form with your personal details, passport information, and travel plans.

• Upload the required documents.

Be sure that all the details match your passport exactly—small errors can cause delays.

4. Pay the Visa Fee

The standard tourist visa fee is:

• $50 USD for most countries

• $100 USD for US citizens (due to reciprocity agreements)

Payment is made securely online with a debit or credit card. Keep your payment confirmation as proof.

5. Wait for Processing

After submission, you’ll receive a reference number to track your application. Processing typically takes 10 business days, though sometimes it’s quicker. During peak travel seasons, give yourself extra time.

6. Receive Your Visa Approval

Once approved, you’ll get a visa grant notice via email. Download and print this document—you’ll need to present it when you arrive in Tanzania.

7. Arrival in Tanzania

At the border or airport, you’ll present:

• Your passport

• Printed visa approval

• Proof of accommodation and return ticket (sometimes requested)

Immigration officers will stamp your passport with your official visa, allowing you to enjoy your stay for up to 90 days.

Important Tips for a Smooth Application

• Apply early – Ideally 3–4 weeks before your trip.

• Double-check documents – Ensure your passport has enough validity and your details match.

• Keep everything printed – Even if you have digital copies, border officers may ask for printed versions.

• Consider multiple-entry visas if you plan to visit neighboring countries (Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda) and re-enter Tanzania during your trip.

Common Questions About the Tanzania Visitor Visa

Can I get a visa on arrival in Tanzania?

Yes, Tanzania still allows visas on arrival at airports and land borders. However, the lines can be long, and approvals aren’t guaranteed for all nationalities. The e-Visa is strongly recommended for a smoother entry.

How long is the tourist visa valid?

The standard single-entry visa is valid for 90 days from the date of entry.

Can I extend my visa?

Yes. You can apply for an extension at the Immigration Office in Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar. Extensions are typically granted for another 90 days.

What happens if I overstay my visa?

Overstaying is taken seriously and can result in fines or even deportation. Always plan ahead to avoid issues.

Do children need visas too?

Yes. Every traveler, including minors, must have their own visa.

How TRAVUL.ORG Makes This Easier

At TRAVUL.ORG, we know that planning a trip can feel overwhelming—not just deciding where to go, but also managing finances, booking, and handling immigration paperwork. That’s why we’re building a unified travel platform that brings everything under one roof.

For visa support, our platform is designed to:

• Guide you step by step through requirements based on your nationality.

• Flag missing documents before you apply to avoid rejections.

• Offer reminders for deadlines so you don’t miss critical dates.

• Connect visas to your trip planning—so your flights, accommodations, and financial planning are all aligned.

Instead of jumping between different sites and checklists, TRAVUL helps you manage the whole journey—from saving money for your trip to getting the right visa—in one place.

Final Thoughts

Applying for a Tanzania tourist visa is straightforward once you know the steps. With a valid passport, a few key documents, and an online application, you’ll be ready to explore one of Africa’s most breathtaking destinations.

At TRAVUL.ORG, we’re committed to making travel planning smoother and more enjoyable by removing the stress of logistics. Because the focus of your trip should be the experiences—not the paperwork.

If you’re thinking about traveling to Tanzania soon, what’s the first thing you’re most excited to see: the wildlife, the mountains, or the beaches?