All visitors to Tanzania are required to obtain a tourist visa to enter the country. A passport valid for a minimum of 6 months from the date of entry and at least two blank visa pages is required.
US passport holders are eligible only for a multi-entry visa for USD $100. All other passport holders may apply for a single-entry visa for USD $50.
We highly recommend applying for your tourist visa a minimum of two months prior to your trip. You may do so in one of the following ways:
The visa can be obtained in one of the following ways:
- Through the Tanzania Electronic Visa Application System. This allows you to process your application and make the payment ahead of your travel, and does not require mailing your passport. You will be asked to upload certain documents, such as your flight itinerary, and provide some details about the tour company hosting you. Processing can take up to 3 weeks, so please start your application early. You will receive your visa upon arrival in the country.
- Through your local Tanzania Embassy or Consulate. Instructions can be found on the website of your local embassy or consulate and will require you to mail in your passport, in addition to other documents related to your trip, such as your trip and flight itineraries.
If you prefer to wait until you arrive in the country, you can obtain your visa upon arrival at any major international port of entry. You will be required to complete a form and submit documentation such as your trip and flight itineraries. You will also be required to pay the visa fee, which must be paid with cash in USD (dated 2007 or later). Please be prepared to spend an additional 2-3 hours upon your arrival in the visa processing lines.
Understanding Visa Types and Eligibility
Tanzania offers several visa types depending on your nationality and travel purpose. Most tourists require a Single Entry Visa, valid for up to 90 days. U.S. citizens must apply for a Multiple-Entry Visa, valid for one year with 90-day stays. There are also business, transit, and student visas. Be sure to apply for the correct visa to avoid delays or rejections at the border.
Processing Times and Recommendations
Tanzania’s eVisa system generally processes applications within 10 business days, but delays can happen, especially during peak travel seasons. To be safe, apply at least 3–4 weeks before your departure. Avoid last-minute stress by checking your inbox (and spam folder) regularly for the approval email, and keep a printed copy of your confirmation with your travel documents.
If you have any questions about visas or preparing for your trip to Tanzania, please contact us. If you are still at the planning stage, browse our Tanzania Safaris and Kilimanjaro Treks for inspiration.
