What Is the Tanzania eVisa?
The Tanzania eVisa is an electronic travel permit that allows foreign nationals to enter the United Republic of Tanzania for tourism, business, transit, or other purposes. Unlike traditional visa applications that require visiting an embassy, the Tanzania eVisa is applied for entirely online through the official portal at visa.immigration.go.tz.
The eVisa covers entry to both Tanzania Mainland and the islands of Zanzibar (Unguja and Pemba). Once approved, the eVisa is valid for 90 days from the date of issue and permits a single entry (unless you apply for the multiple-entry option). The Tanzania Immigration Department strongly recommends applying for the eVisa before travel rather than relying on visa on arrival, as it guarantees entry approval and eliminates potential delays at the airport.
- Applied for 100% online – no embassy visit required
- Covers Tanzania Mainland and Zanzibar
- Valid for 90 days from date of issue
- Processing takes 10-14 business days
- Fees start at $50 USD for a standard single-entry visa
Key facts about the Tanzania eVisa:
Tanzania eVisa Types and Fees
The Tanzania eVisa system offers four distinct visa categories, each designed for different travel purposes. All applications go through the same online portal, but fees and permitted activities vary.
Ordinary Single-Entry Visa ($50 USD)
- Tourism and sightseeing
- Visiting friends and family
- Short-term medical treatment
- Attending conferences or events
The ordinary single-entry visa is the most common option for tourists and short-term visitors. It allows one entry into Tanzania and is valid for up to 90 days. This visa covers:
Business Visa ($255 USD)
- Business meetings and negotiations
- Attending trade fairs and exhibitions
- Short-term consultancy work
- Market research and site visits
The business visa is designed for travelers conducting commercial activities in Tanzania. It permits:
Multiple-Entry Visa ($550 USD)
- Business professionals with ongoing Tanzania operations
- Researchers conducting fieldwork
- Investors and development partners
- Travelers visiting neighboring countries and returning
The multiple-entry visa is ideal for frequent travelers to Tanzania. It allows unlimited entries within the validity period and is commonly used by:
Transit Visa ($30 USD)
The transit visa is for travelers passing through Tanzania to another destination. It is valid for a maximum of 7 days and is required if you need to leave the international transit area at any Tanzanian airport or port.
| Visa Type | Fee (USD) | Entries | Validity | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ordinary | $50 | Single | 90 days | Tourism, family visits |
| Business | $255 | Single | 90 days | Business activities |
| Multiple Entry | $550 | Multiple | 1 year | Frequent travelers |
| Transit | $30 | Single | 7 days | Layovers, connecting travel |
For the most current fee information, always check the official Tanzania eVisa portal or our detailed guide on Tanzania visa fees.
Tanzania eVisa Requirements
Before starting your Tanzania eVisa application, ensure you have all the required documents ready. Incomplete applications are a common cause of delays and rejections.
Mandatory Documents for All Applicants
Valid Passport Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your planned date of entry into Tanzania. It should have at least one blank page for the entry stamp. Provide a clear scan or photo of the biographical data page.
- Taken within the last 6 months
- White or light-colored background
- Face clearly visible, looking directly at camera
- No glasses, hats, or head coverings (unless for religious reasons)
- Minimum resolution: 600 x 600 pixels
Digital Passport Photo Upload a recent passport-style photograph that meets these specifications:
Return or Onward Flight Booking You must provide proof of a return flight or onward travel from Tanzania. This can be a confirmed booking or a reservation. The document should show your name, flight dates, and route.
Proof of Accommodation Provide a hotel booking confirmation or a letter of invitation from your host in Tanzania. The document should cover the full duration of your stay.
Additional Requirements by Visa Type
- Letter from your employer stating the purpose of travel
- Invitation letter from the Tanzanian company or organization
- Company registration documents (if applicable)
Business Visa:
- Justification letter explaining why multiple entries are needed
- Supporting documents from Tanzanian business partners (if applicable)
Multiple-Entry Visa:
- Confirmed onward ticket to final destination
- Visa for final destination (if required)
Transit Visa:
For a complete list of requirements organized by nationality, see our Tanzania visa requirements guide.
How to Apply for Tanzania eVisa (Step by Step)
Applying for a Tanzania eVisa is a straightforward online process. Follow these steps to complete your application successfully.
Step 1: Visit the Official Portal
Go to visa.immigration.go.tz – this is the only official Tanzania eVisa application portal. Be cautious of unofficial websites that charge additional fees or collect your personal information without authorization.
Step 2: Create Your Account
Click “Apply for a New Visa” and register with your email address. You will need to verify your email before proceeding. Keep your login credentials safe – you will need them to check your application status later.
Step 3: Select Visa Type and Fill Personal Details
- Full name (as it appears on your passport)
- Date and place of birth
- Nationality and passport number
- Contact information (email and phone)
- Travel dates and purpose of visit
- Accommodation details in Tanzania
Choose the appropriate visa type (Ordinary, Business, Multiple Entry, or Transit) and complete the personal information form. You will need to provide:
Step 4: Upload Required Documents
- Passport biographical data page
- Passport-style photograph
- Return or onward flight booking
- Proof of accommodation
- Additional documents based on visa type
Upload clear scans or photos of all required documents:
Accepted formats are typically JPEG and PDF. Ensure all files are clear and legible.
Step 5: Review and Pay
Carefully review all entered information before submitting. Once submitted, you cannot modify your application. Pay the visa fee using a valid credit or debit card. The fee is non-refundable regardless of the application outcome.
Step 6: Wait for Approval
After submission, you will receive an email confirmation with your application ID. Processing typically takes 10-14 business days. Once approved, download and print your eVisa approval letter to present at immigration upon arrival in Tanzania.
Tanzania eVisa Processing Time
Standard processing for a Tanzania eVisa takes 10 to 14 business days from the date of submission. However, processing times can vary based on several factors:
- Volume of applications (peak travel season may cause delays)
- Completeness and accuracy of your application
- Additional verification requirements for certain nationalities
- Public holidays in Tanzania
Factors that may affect processing time:
- Apply at least 2-3 weeks before your travel date
- For peak season travel (June-October, December-February), apply 4 weeks early
- Business visa applicants should allow extra time for verification
Recommended application timeline:
Note: The Tanzania Immigration Department does not offer expedited processing. Plan ahead and apply early to avoid last-minute complications. You can check your application status at any time through the portal.
Tanzania eVisa vs Visa on Arrival
Travelers to Tanzania have two options: apply for an eVisa online before travel, or obtain a visa on arrival at the airport or border. While both are valid, the eVisa is the recommended option for several reasons.
| Factor | eVisa | Visa on Arrival |
|---|---|---|
| Application | Online, before travel | At airport/border |
| Processing | 10-14 days | Immediate (but queues) |
| Approval guarantee | Yes, before departure | No, at border discretion |
| Wait time at arrival | Minimal (pre-approved) | 30-60+ minutes in queue |
| Fee | $50 (ordinary) | $50 (ordinary) |
| Payment | Credit card online | Cash or card at border |
| Risk of denial | Low (pre-screened) | Possible at border |
| Documentation | Digital approval letter | Physical stamp |
Why eVisa is recommended: The Tanzania government actively encourages travelers to use the eVisa system. With an eVisa, you arrive with pre-approved entry, reducing your time at immigration and eliminating the risk of being turned away at the border. Visa on arrival is still available, but travelers report longer wait times and occasional issues with payment processing at airports.
For a detailed comparison, read our guide on Tanzania visa on arrival.
Tanzania eVisa for US, UK, and Indian Citizens
Citizens of the United States, United Kingdom, and India all require a visa to enter Tanzania. The application process and fees are largely the same across these nationalities, though there may be slight differences in processing times.
Tanzania eVisa for US Citizens
US passport holders must obtain a visa before or upon arrival in Tanzania. The ordinary single-entry eVisa costs $50 USD. US citizens can also obtain a visa on arrival, but the eVisa is recommended. The US Embassy in Dar es Salaam can provide assistance if needed.
Tanzania eVisa for UK Citizens
UK passport holders follow the same process as US citizens. The ordinary eVisa fee is $50 USD. UK citizens do not qualify for visa-free entry and must obtain either an eVisa or visa on arrival.
Tanzania eVisa for Indian Citizens
Indian passport holders require a visa for Tanzania. The ordinary eVisa fee is $50 USD. Indian citizens may experience slightly longer processing times due to additional verification requirements. It is recommended to apply at least 3 weeks before travel.
For nationality-specific requirements and embassy contacts, see our guides for Tanzania visa for US citizens, UK citizens, and Indian citizens.
How to Check Tanzania eVisa Status
After submitting your Tanzania eVisa application, you can track its progress through the official portal. Here is how to check your status:
1. Visit visa.immigration.go.tz 2. Log in with your registered email and password 3. Navigate to “My Applications” or “Check Status” 4. Enter your application ID (received in your confirmation email) 5. View the current status of your application
- Submitted: Your application has been received and is awaiting review
- Under Review: Immigration officers are processing your application
- Approved: Your eVisa has been granted – download and print the approval letter
- Rejected: Your application was denied (reasons are typically provided)
Possible application statuses:
If your application has been under review for more than 14 business days, you can contact the Tanzania Immigration Department at [email protected] for an update.
Tanzania eVisa Entry Points
Your Tanzania eVisa is valid for entry through any official port of entry. The main entry points are:
International Airports
- Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) – Dar es Salaam, the largest and busiest airport
- Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) – Serving Arusha and the northern safari circuit
- Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) – Zanzibar’s main airport
Major Land Border Crossings
- Namanga – Tanzania-Kenya border (most popular overland crossing)
- Taveta/Holili – Tanzania-Kenya border (northern route)
- Rusumo – Tanzania-Rwanda border
- Mutukula – Tanzania-Uganda border
- Kasumulu – Tanzania-Malawi border
Seaports
- Dar es Salaam Port – Main maritime entry point
- Zanzibar Port – For arrivals by sea from mainland Tanzania or other islands
- Tanga Port – Northern Tanzania seaport
- Mtwara Port – Southern Tanzania seaport
Upon arrival at any of these entry points, present your printed eVisa approval letter along with your passport to the immigration officer.
Tanzania eVisa FAQs
How much does the Tanzania eVisa cost?
The Tanzania eVisa costs $50 USD for an ordinary single-entry visa, $255 for a business visa, $550 for a multiple-entry visa, and $30 for a transit visa. All fees are paid online by credit or debit card during the application process.
How long does it take to get a Tanzania eVisa?
Standard processing takes 10 to 14 business days. It is recommended to apply at least 2-3 weeks before your travel date, and 4 weeks during peak travel seasons (June-October and December-February).
Can I get a Tanzania visa on arrival instead of an eVisa?
Yes, Tanzania still offers visas on arrival at airports and land borders. However, the eVisa is recommended because it guarantees entry approval before you travel and reduces wait times at immigration. The fee is the same ($50 for ordinary).
What documents do I need for a Tanzania eVisa?
You need a passport valid for at least 6 months, a digital passport photo, a return or onward flight booking, and proof of accommodation. Business visa applicants also need an invitation letter from a Tanzanian company.
Can Americans get a visa on arrival for Tanzania?
Yes, US citizens can get a visa on arrival in Tanzania. However, applying for an eVisa online before travel is recommended to avoid queues and ensure guaranteed entry. The fee is $50 for both options.
How do I check my Tanzania eVisa application status?
Log in to the official portal at visa.immigration.go.tz using your registered email and password. Navigate to your applications to view the current status. You can also use your application ID from the confirmation email.
Is the Tanzania eVisa valid for Zanzibar?
Yes, the Tanzania eVisa covers entry to both Tanzania Mainland and the islands of Zanzibar (Unguja and Pemba). You do not need a separate visa for Zanzibar.
What happens if my Tanzania eVisa application is rejected?
If your application is rejected, the reason is typically provided in the rejection notice. Common reasons include incomplete documentation, passport validity issues, or discrepancies in application details. You can reapply with corrected information, but the original fee is non-refundable.
Can I extend my Tanzania eVisa while in the country?
Yes, it is possible to extend your visa while in Tanzania. Visit the Immigration Office in Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar before your visa expires. Extensions are granted at the discretion of immigration officers and may require additional fees.
Do I need a transit visa for a layover in Tanzania?
If you are staying in the international transit area and not passing through immigration, you do not need a visa. If you need to leave the transit area or your layover exceeds 24 hours, you will need a transit visa ($30 USD).
