Tanzania Visa Guide 2025: Everything You Need to Know
Planning a trip to Tanzania? Whether your adventure includes a Serengeti safari, a tropical getaway in Zanzibar, or summiting Mount Kilimanjaro, you will most likely need a Tanzanian visa.
In this updated 2025 guide, we cover all the essentials: visa types, requirements, fees, how to apply online, visa on arrival options, and practical tips to ensure smooth entry.
Do You Need a Visa to Enter Tanzania?
Most travelers do require a visa to enter Tanzania — this includes visits to Zanzibar, which is part of the United Republic of Tanzania.
However, citizens of certain countries are visa-exempt. See the list below.
Types of Tanzania Visas
Tanzania offers different visa options depending on your travel purpose:
- Ordinary (Tourist) Visa – Single Entry
- Valid for up to 90 days
- For tourism, holidays, or visiting friends/family
- The most common visa for travelers
- Multiple Entry Visa
- Valid for 12 months
- For frequent visitors such as business travelers or investors
- Each stay cannot exceed 90 days
- Business Visa
- Valid for up to 90 days
- For short-term work, conferences, or workshops
- Transit Visa
- Valid for 7 days
- For travelers passing through Tanzania on their way to another destination
- Gratis Visa
- Issued to holders of diplomatic or service passports, or employees of international organizations with proper documentation
Visa-Exempt Countries
Citizens of the following countries can enter Tanzania for up to 90 days without a visa:
- Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, South Africa, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana
- Singapore, Hong Kong, Jamaica, Malaysia
- Selected Caribbean and Pacific island nations
✅ Always double-check your eligibility with a Tanzanian embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
How to Apply for a Tanzania Visa
Option 1: e-Visa (Online Application)
Official portal: 🔗 https://visa.immigration.go.tz
Steps:
- Complete the online application form
- Upload your passport and a passport-size photo
- Pay with Visa or Mastercard
- Receive your e-Visa via email (usually within 10 days)
✅ Recommended for faster airport processing and peace of mind.
Option 2: Visa on Arrival
Visas can also be issued at:
- Julius Nyerere International Airport (Dar es Salaam)
- Kilimanjaro International Airport
- Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (Zanzibar)
- Land borders such as Namanga
❗ Note: Visa on arrival can involve long queues; applying online is generally quicker and more convenient.
Tanzania Visa Requirements
To apply, you will need:
- A valid passport (at least six months from entry)
- Passport-size photo
- Return or onward flight ticket
- Accommodation details or tour itinerary
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate (if arriving from an endemic country)
Tanzania Visa Fees (2025)
| Visa Type | Fee (USD) |
|---|---|
| Single Entry (Tourist) | $50 |
| Multiple Entry | $100 |
| Transit Visa | $30 |
| Business Visa | $250* |
| Visa on Arrival | Same as above |
*Business visa approval subject to Tanzanian authorities.
🇺🇸 U.S. citizens should apply for a multiple-entry visa ($100, valid 1 year).
Essential Travel Tips
- Apply at least two weeks in advance if using the e-Visa
- Print your e-Visa approval letter for airport entry
- Be prepared to show accommodation bookings and return tickets
- Border officials are generally friendly but firm; honesty is key
Entry Points into Tanzania
- Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) – Dar es Salaam
- Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) – Near Arusha & Moshi
- Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) – Zanzibar
- Namanga Border – From Kenya to Arusha
- Tunduma/Nakonde Border – From Zambia
Final Thoughts
Tanzania has one of the most traveler-friendly visa systems in East Africa. Whether visiting for adventure, relaxation, or business, the process is straightforward — especially with the online application.
Plan ahead, carry all necessary documents, and focus on enjoying Tanzania’s incredible offerings — from the Big Five on safari to the pristine beaches of Zanzibar.
