Complete Tanzania Visa Guide 2025: How to Get Your eVisa for Zanzibar & Mainland (Updated September 2025)
Last updated: September 2025
Planning your dream trip to Tanzania and Zanzibar? Getting your visa sorted is the first crucial step. This comprehensive 2025 guide covers everything you need to know about Tanzania visa requirements, from the simple eVisa application process to arrival procedures and essential travel documents.
Whether you're heading to the Serengeti for an epic safari or to Zanzibar's pristine beaches, here's your complete roadmap to securing your Tanzania visa hassle-free.
Tanzania Visa Requirements 2025: The Essentials
Good news: Most travelers can easily obtain a Tanzania visa either online (eVisa) or upon arrival. Tanzania operates a unified visa system, meaning one visa covers both the mainland and Zanzibar.
Who Needs a Tanzania Visa?
- Most nationalities require a visa to enter Tanzania
- East African Community (EAC) citizens can enter visa-free for up to 6 months
- Some Commonwealth countries may have special arrangements
Tanzania Visa Types Available
1. Tourist Visa (Single Entry)
- Cost: $50 USD (most nationalities), $100 USD (US citizens)
- Validity: 90 days from entry
- Purpose: Tourism, visiting friends/family
2. Multiple Entry Visa
- Cost: $100 USD
- Validity: 12 months
- Purpose: Business, frequent travelers
- Note: Mandatory for US citizens
3. Transit Visa
- Cost: $30 USD
- Validity: 7 days
- Purpose: Airport transit only
How to Apply for Tanzania eVisa: Step-by-Step Process
The Tanzania eVisa is the most convenient way to secure your visa before traveling. Here's exactly how to do it:
Step 1: Access the Official eVisa Portal
Visit the official Tanzania eVisa website.
⚠️ Important: Only use the official government website to avoid scams and processing delays.
Step 2: Complete the Online Application
Fill out the application form with:
- Personal information (must match your passport exactly)
- Travel details and intended duration of stay
- Accommodation information
- Purpose of visit
Step 3: Upload Required Documents
Essential documents for Tanzania visa application:
- Passport photo page (clear, high-quality scan)
- Recent passport-style photograph (white background)
- Return ticket or travel itinerary
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking, invitation letter)
- Bank statements (last 3 months, showing sufficient funds)
Step 4: Pay the Visa Fee
- Payment accepted via credit/debit card
- Processing fee: Additional $1-2 USD
- Total cost: $51-52 USD (most nationalities), $101-102 USD (US citizens)
Step 5: Submit and Wait for Processing
- Processing time: 5-10 business days (typically 72 hours)
- Confirmation: You'll receive an email confirmation immediately
- Approval notification: Visa approval arrives via email
Pro tip: Apply at least 2 weeks before your travel date to avoid last-minute stress.
Tanzania Visa on Arrival: Your Backup Option
If you prefer to handle visa formalities upon arrival, Tanzania offers visa on arrival at all major entry points:
Where to Get Visa on Arrival
- Julius Nyerere International Airport (Dar es Salaam)
- Kilimanjaro International Airport (Arusha/Moshi)
- Zanzibar International Airport
- Major land border crossings
Visa on Arrival Process
- Queue at visa desk (can be lengthy during peak season)
- Present required documents (same as eVisa requirements)
- Pay visa fee (USD cash preferred, some accept cards)
- Receive visa sticker in your passport
Cost: Same as eVisa ($50/$100 USD) Processing time: 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on queues
Essential Tanzania Travel Requirements Beyond Your Visa
Yellow Fever Vaccination Requirements
Do you need yellow fever vaccination for Tanzania?
- From Europe/US: No vaccination required
- From yellow fever countries: Vaccination certificate mandatory
- Transit through risk countries: Required if transit exceeds 12 hours
Countries requiring yellow fever proof include: Most of Central and West Africa, parts of South America.
Mandatory Travel Insurance for Zanzibar
New requirement as of October 2024: All Zanzibar visitors must purchase government travel insurance for $44 USD through visitzanzibar.go.tz.
This covers:
- Medical emergencies up to $25,000
- Trip interruptions
- COVID-19 related expenses
Other Essential Requirements
- Passport validity: At least 6 months remaining
- Blank pages: Minimum 2 blank pages for stamps
- Return ticket: Proof of onward travel
- Sufficient funds: Bank statements or cash proof
Tanzania Visa Costs Breakdown 2025
| Nationality | Single Entry | Multiple Entry | Processing Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Most countries | $50 USD | $100 USD | $1-2 USD |
| United States | $100 USD | $100 USD | $1-2 USD |
| Transit visa | $30 USD | N/A | $1-2 USD |
Payment methods accepted:
- Credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard)
- USD cash (visa on arrival)
Common Tanzania Visa Mistakes to Avoid
Based on my experience helping travelers, here are the most frequent visa application errors:
Document Issues
- Blurry passport scans → Use high-resolution images
- Mismatched names → Ensure exact spelling matches passport
- Expired documents → Check all dates before uploading
Application Errors
- Wrong visa type → US citizens must select multiple entry
- Incomplete forms → Double-check all required fields
- Last-minute applications → Apply at least 1 week in advance
Payment Problems
- Card declined → Use international-enabled cards
- Currency confusion → Fees are in USD only
What to Do If Your Tanzania Visa is Delayed
If your eVisa isn't approved before travel:
- Print your application receipt and payment confirmation
- Bring all supporting documents to the airport
- Present proof of application at immigration
- Pay for visa on arrival if necessary (you may get a refund later)
Emergency contacts:
- Tanzania Immigration Department: +255 22 286 5015
- Your nearest Tanzanian embassy/consulate
Frequently Asked Questions About Tanzania Visas
Can I extend my Tanzania visa?
Yes, tourist visas can be extended for up to 90 additional days at immigration offices in Dar es Salaam, Arusha, or Zanzibar. Cost: $50 USD.
Do I need separate visas for Tanzania mainland and Zanzibar?
No, one Tanzania visa covers both destinations.
Can I apply for a Tanzania visa if I have a criminal record?
Applications are assessed case-by-case. Declare any criminal history honestly and provide relevant documentation.
What if I'm traveling with children?
Children need their own visas. Minors may require additional documentation like birth certificates and consent letters if traveling without both parents.
Smart Money-Saving Tips for Your Tanzania Visa
Book accommodation strategically: Some hotels provide free visa application assistance for guests.
Group applications: If traveling as a family/group, ensure all applications are consistent to avoid delays.
Avoid peak seasons: Immigration queues are shorter during Tanzania's low season (March-May, November).
Use reliable internet: Poor connections during application can cause data loss and require restarting.
Final Checklist: Before You Travel to Tanzania
✅ Visa approved and printed (or documents ready for arrival visa)
✅ Passport valid for 6+ months with blank pages
✅ Return ticket booked and confirmed
✅ Travel insurance purchased (mandatory for Zanzibar)
✅ Yellow fever certificate (if required based on your travel route)
✅ Accommodation confirmed with booking confirmation
✅ Sufficient funds available and documented
Ready to explore Tanzania's incredible wildlife and Zanzibar's pristine beaches? With your visa sorted, you're one step closer to the adventure of a lifetime.
For more Tanzania travel tips, safari planning advice, and local insights, explore our other guides on Tanzania Bleu.
Planning your Tanzania itinerary? Check out our guides on [safari planning], [Zanzibar beaches], and [budget travel tips] to make the most of your East African adventure.
Have questions about Tanzania visa requirements? Drop me a message – I'm here to help you navigate Tanzania travel like a local.
Karibu Tanzania! 🇹🇿
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