Entry Requirements for Tanzania

Visa Options for Tanzania

Securing the right visa is the first crucial step toward a hassle-free entry into Tanzania. Whether you’re planning an unforgettable safari, a challenging trek up Mount Kilimanjaro, or a relaxing beach getaway on Zanzibar, visa requirements can vary depending on your travel purpose. For independent travelers, understanding the available visa types is key to avoiding delays upon arrival. Tanzania offers several visa options, each differing in cost, validity, and application process.

Types of Visas

Travelers to Tanzania can choose from various visa types based on their reason for visiting and intended length of stay:

Tourist Visa:This is the most common choice for vacationers and independent travelers. It allows a stay of up to 90 days and costs 50$ for a single-entry visa. US citizens, however, are required to pay 100$ for the same visa.

Transit Visa:Ideal for travelers passing through Tanzania en route to another destination. This visa costs approximately 30$ and is valid for a stay of up to 14 days.

East Africa Tourist Visa:A convenient option for those planning to visit Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda on the same trip. This visa costs around 100$, is valid for up to 90 days, and allows multiple entries across the three countries.

Regardless of the visa type, your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended date of entry. For travelers seeking flexibility, it’s advisable to review visa requirements early to select the most suitable option.

Applying for an eVisa

As of January 30, 2025, Tanzania has officially phased out the visa-on-arrival option. All travelers are now required to obtain an electronic visa (eVisa) before departure. This is the only recommended application method and helps avoid long wait times at the border.

The eVisa application is processed through Tanzania’s official immigration portal, and the procedure involves the following steps:

1. Visit the website: https://eservices.immigration.go.tz/visa.
2. Complete the online application form.
3. Upload the required documents (passport, passport-sized photo, flight itinerary, and hotel reservation if applicable).
4. Pay the visa fee (50 $ for a single-entry tourist visa, 100 $ for a multiple-entry visa) using a credit card.
5. Allow for a processing time of at least 10 business days.
6. Once approved, print the confirmation email and present it upon arrival in Tanzania.

Independent travelers are strongly advised to submit their eVisa application at least two weeks before their departure date. Without a valid eVisa, entry into Tanzania will not be permitted.

Required Documents and Passport Regulations

To ensure a smooth entry into Tanzania, gathering all necessary documents well in advance is essential. Applying for an eVisa, in particular, requires careful preparation. Additionally, travelers should check that their passport meets the country’s current requirements to avoid any issues at border control. Below is an overview of the key documents and passport regulations you need to know before your trip to Tanzania.

Documents for the Visa Application

When applying for an eVisa, several documents must be submitted through Tanzania’s official immigration website. Be prepared to provide the following:

• Completed online application form
• Clear, scanned copy of the passport’s biographical data page
• Recent digital passport photo (max. 300 KB, .jpg or .png format)
• Proof of the first night’s accommodation (e.g., hotel booking confirmation including name and address)
• Return or onward travel ticket (if required)
• Proof of visa fee payment (50 $ for a single-entry tourist visa, 100 $ for a multiple-entry visa)

Additionally, travelers may be asked to present certain documents upon arrival, such as a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate, especially if arriving from a country with a yellow fever risk.

Important update for Zanzibar travelers:Starting October 1, 2024, a special travel insurance policy from the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC) will be mandatory. This can be purchased in advance or upon arrival for approximately 45 $.

Special requirements for minors:

• Copy of the child’s birth certificate
• Parental consent letter if the child is traveling without both parents

Passport Requirements

Tanzania enforces strict passport regulations to ensure smooth entry. Your passport must:

• Be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date
• Have at least two, preferably three, blank visa pages for entry and exit stamps
• Be machine-readable and in good condition (no damage)
• Be signed by the passport holder

Additional Notes:

• Child entries in a parent’s passport are not accepted. Each child requires their own passport.
• Temporary travel documents are not recognized.
• It is recommended that minors over six years old have their own passport, as there have been occasional issues with Tanzanian authorities in the past.

While in Tanzania, travelers should carry their passport at all times. It’s also a good idea to keep copies of all key documents—passport, visa, booking confirmations—both in paper form and digitally. This provides extra security in case of loss or theft.

Special Entry Conditions and Regional Regulations

In addition to Tanzania’s general entry requirements, there are specific rules for certain travelers and regions that should be factored into your trip planning. These special conditions can impact your entry process and may lead to unexpected costs or delays if not addressed in advance.

Country- and Region-Specific Regulations

While visa requirements apply to both mainland Tanzania and the island of Zanzibar, there are some notable regional differences to be aware of:

Mandatory Insurance for Zanzibar:As of October 2024, all visitors to Zanzibar are required to purchase a compulsory travel insurance policy from the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC). This insurance costs approximately 44 $ per person and is valid for stays of up to 92 days. International travel insurance policies are not accepted, which can be an unforeseen expense—especially for independent travelers who rely on their existing coverage.

Yellow Fever Vaccination Requirement:Travelers arriving in Zanzibar, particularly if they have previously visited mainland Tanzania, must present a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate. This requirement often causes confusion, so it’s advisable to carry proof of vaccination, even if you are not traveling from a yellow fever zone.

Mainland Tanzania:On the mainland, there is no mandatory insurance requirement, and travelers arriving directly from the US, Canada, or most European countries (including Germany, Austria, and Switzerland) are not required to present proof of vaccination. However, it is still recommended to check the latest health regulations before departure, as requirements can change on short notice.

Being aware of these special entry conditions will help you better prepare for your trip to Tanzania and avoid unexpected issues, particularly if your itinerary includes both mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar.

Arrival and Border Crossings

For many travelers, arriving in Tanzania marks their first impression of the country—setting the tone for the adventures ahead. Whether you’re landing by plane or crossing a land border, a bit of preparation can ensure a smooth entry. However, long waits and bureaucratic procedures can sometimes test your patience, especially during peak season or if it’s your first time navigating the process. Knowing the key entry points and following a few practical tips can help you begin your journey stress-free.

Recommended Entry Points

Tanzania offers several international airports and land border crossings, each suited to different travel routes and destinations:

Julius Nyerere International Airport (JNIA), Dar es Salaam:The country’s largest airport and primary gateway for international flights. It’s a key hub for travelers heading to the southern national parks, the Indian Ocean coastline, or Zanzibar.

Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA), near Arusha:The preferred choice for safari enthusiasts and climbers. Its location is ideal for exploring northern Tanzania, including the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Mount Kilimanjaro.

Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (AAKIA), Zanzibar:The main airport for visitors to Zanzibar. It connects the island to mainland Tanzania and several international destinations across East Africa and beyond.

Rusumo Border Crossing:A well-known land border post linking Tanzania with Rwanda. It operates as a "One-Stop Border Post," allowing travelers to complete exit and entry procedures more efficiently in a single location.

Choosing the right entry point depends on your personal itinerary. If you’re flying, booking tickets well in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons when flights fill up quickly.

Tips for Smooth Border Procedures

Preparation is key to a quick and stress-free entry. Keep the following tips in mind when arriving at airports or crossing land borders:

• Prioritize the eVisa: Applying online via Tanzania’s immigration portal is the fastest and most efficient option. Although visas on arrival may still be possible in some cases, they often involve long queues and delays.
• Check Your Passport: Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date and has at least two blank pages for visa stamps.
• Carry US Dollars: Visa fees are often preferred in cash, with US dollars being the most widely accepted currency. Euros are sometimes refused.
• Have Your Yellow Fever Certificate: Particularly if you are traveling to Zanzibar or coming from a country with a yellow fever risk, proof of vaccination may be required.
• Complete Entry Forms Carefully: Forms are typically handed out during the flight or upon arrival. Filling them out correctly can prevent unnecessary delays.
• Prepare for Wait Times: During the high season, processing can take up to two hours. Patience and a friendly attitude toward immigration officers often make the experience smoother.
• Keep Documents Accessible: Have your passport, visa confirmation, flight details, and vaccination proof ready for inspection.
• Expect Health Checks at Land Borders: Temperature checks and vaccination reviews are common. Additionally, a road tax may be charged if you’re entering with a vehicle.

By following these steps, you’ll navigate Tanzania’s entry process with ease, allowing you to focus on what really matters—soaking in the country’s stunning landscapes and warm hospitality.

Safety Advice and Key Contact Points

Tanzania is generally considered a safe travel destination, but as with many African countries, visitors should remain vigilant and stay informed about current safety and health advisories. This is particularly important for independent travelers exploring remote regions. Being well-prepared can minimize potential risks and ensure a more relaxed travel experience.

Current Safety Information

While most areas of Tanzania can be visited without issue, heightened awareness is advised. Since early 2023, authorities have warned of an increased terrorism threat, especially in Dar es Salaam’s port area, crowded public spaces, hotels, and large gatherings. Travelers should avoid large crowds, maintain a low profile, and follow the guidance of local security forces.

In southern Tanzania, particularly in the Mtwara region near the Mozambique border, non-essential travel is discouraged due to occasional security concerns.

Health Risks:In early 2025, an outbreak of the Marburg virus was reported in the Kagera region. This severe viral disease requires strict hygiene precautions, and travelers experiencing symptoms like fever or muscle pain should seek immediate medical attention.

Although COVID-19-related entry restrictions were lifted in January 2023, it is still recommended to review your vaccination status. Important vaccines to consider include:

• Yellow fever (required if arriving from an endemic area)
• Hepatitis A and B
• Typhoid
• Tetanus

Malaria prevention is also strongly advised, as the disease is present in most parts of the country.

Key Contact Points

Having the right contacts on hand is crucial, especially for independent travelers venturing off the beaten path. Here are the most important points of contact for emergencies and consular matters:

German Embassy in Dar es Salaam:Umoja House, Hamburg Avenue/Mirambo StreetPhone: +255 22 211 7409 to 15Email: info@daressalam.diplo.deWebsite: www.daressalam.diplo.deAppointments required

Tanzanian Embassy in Germany:Eschenallee 11, 14050 BerlinPhone: +49 30 3030800Email: info@tanzania-gov.deHours: Monday–Friday 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM (Visa Services 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM)

Emergency Numbers in Tanzania:

• Police: 112
• Ambulance: 114
• Fire Department: 115

Recommended Medical Facilities:

• Aga Khan Hospital, Ocean Road, Dar es SalaamPhone: +255 22 2115151 or +255 754 777 100
• AMREF Flying Doctors: 24-hour emergency hotlineWebsite: www.amrefgermany.de

Tourism Authorities:

• Tanzania Tourist Board (TTB), Dar es SalaamPhone: +255 22 2664878Email: info@tanzaniatourism.go.tz
• Zanzibar Commission for TourismPhone: +255 24 2233485Email: marketing@zanzibartourism.net

Additional Recommendations

Comprehensive travel health insurance with emergency evacuation coverage is essential.It’s also advisable to carry a personal travel medical kit, as certain medications may be difficult to find in Tanzania