Kilimanjaro International Airport arrival hall - Tanzania visa and entry information

Cultural-faq

Tanzania Visa & Entry Requirements: Your Hassle-Free Guide

Introduction

Navigating visa and entry requirements can seem daunting, but it's a crucial first step for your Tanzanian adventure. Trust me, after thousands of days in the bush, I've seen many travelers arrive, and a smooth entry sets the right tone for an incredible safari. This guide is here to demystify the process for you.

Getting your visa and understanding entry requirements for Tanzania is a key step in planning your adventure. Most nationalities require a visa, obtainable online (e-visa) or on arrival for some. This guide clarifies the process, necessary documents, and offers tips for a seamless entry.

Who Needs a Visa? Most foreign nationals require a tourist visa to enter Tanzania. Citizens of some countries (mainly neighboring African nations) might be exempt. Always check the latest requirements for your specific nationality on the official website of the Tanzania Immigration Services Department. Don't rely on hearsay; official sources are your best friend here.

Types of Visas & Costs:

Ordinary Visa (Single Entry): This is the most common type for tourists. It's typically valid for 90 days. The cost is generally USD 50, but for US citizens, it's USD 100 (often for a multiple-entry visa, due to a reciprocal agreement).
Multiple Entry Visa: If you plan to enter Tanzania multiple times within a year, this might be an option. It costs USD 100 for non-US citizens.
Transit Visa: For short stays (up to 7 days) while transiting to another country.

The e-Visa Process: The official portal for e-Visas is www.immigration.go.tz.

Fill out the online application form.
Upload required documents (usually a passport copy, passport-sized photo, and possibly your return ticket).
Pay the fee online.
You'll receive an email notification once your application is processed. Print out the "Grant Notice" or "Visa Grant Letter" to present upon arrival. Processing times can vary, so apply at least 2-4 weeks before your trip. I've seen folks get it in a few days, others waited a bit longer, especially during peak season.

Visa on Arrival: If you opt for visa on arrival (available at major entry points like Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR), and Namanga border crossing), be prepared to:

Fill out an application form.
Pay the visa fee in USD cash (exact amount preferred; ensure notes are clean, not torn, and printed after 2006). Credit card facilities are sometimes available but not always reliable.
Queue for immigration. This can take anywhere from 30 minutes to over an hour.

Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate: A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required if you are arriving from or have transited for more than 12 hours through an airport of a country with risk of Yellow Fever transmission. This includes many African and South American countries. Check the latest World Health Organization (WHO) list. If you're coming directly from Europe or North America without such a transit, it's generally not required, but rules can change. It's wise to carry your certificate if you have one.

Upon Arrival: Have your passport, visa (or e-Visa printout), and yellow fever certificate (if applicable) ready. You'll go through immigration, then baggage claim, and finally customs. Customs declarations are usually straightforward for tourists with personal belongings.

Apollo's Recommendation

"My strongest advice: **apply for your e-Visa online well in advance** of your travel date. While "visa on arrival" is an option for many, the queues at the airport can be long and eat into your precious holiday time, especially after a long flight. Imagine stepping off the plane, breeze through immigration because you're prepared, and heading straight towards the scent of adventure! Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay and has at least two blank pages. Keep digital and physical copies of your visa approval, passport, and flight itinerary separate from the originals. It's a small thing, but it can be a lifesaver if things go astray."