How to get a visa for Zanzibar and Tanzania Mainland

How to Get a Visa for Zanzibar and Tanzania

Planning a trip to Tanzania or Zanzibar? Here's a comprehensive guide on how to obtain a visa for your visit.

Official Website

The official website for visa applications is Tanzania eVisa. This platform allows you to apply for an online visa to visit both Tanzania Mainland and Zanzibar.

Visa Application Process

1. Online Application:

   • Visit the Tanzania eVisa website and fill out the online application form.
   • Ensure you provide accurate information and upload the required documents.

2. Payment:

   • After completing the form, proceed to make the payment online. The fee varies depending on the type of visa and your nationality. For a European citizen, it's USD 50.

3. Submission:

   • Submit your application online. You will receive a confirmation email upon successful submission.

4. e-Visa Processing Time:

   • The eVisa application is typically processed within 72 hours. If your visa is not issued by your intended departure date, be sure to print your proof of payment and your application ID, and present them at immigration control upon arrival.

5. Approval:

   • If your visa is approved, you will receive a notification via email. Make sure to print out the visa approval document to present upon arrival.

Visa on Arrival

• Visas can also be obtained upon arrival at the entry points of Tanzania and Zanzibar.
• The cost for a visa on arrival is the same as the e-Visa, which is USD 50 for most nationalities and USD 100 for American citizens.

Types of Visas

• Ordinary Visa:

  • Required for tourists visiting for leisure, holidays, or visiting friends and family.
  • American nationals need to apply for a Multiple Entry Visa, which costs $100

• Multiple Entry Visa:

  • Issued to individuals who frequently travel to Tanzania, such as businesspeople, directors of companies registered in Tanzania, or those engaged in bilateral meetings

• Gratis Visa:

  • Issued to holders of diplomatic, services, or official passports on official duty, as well as their dependents

Important Considerations

• First Destination:

  • If you plan to visit both Tanzania Mainland and Zanzibar, select your first destination while filling out the visa application form

• Return Ticket:

  • Ensure you have a valid return ticket upon arrival, as it is a requirement for visa holders

• Travel Insurance:

  • Visitors to Zanzibar must have valid travel insurance covering medical expenses, emergencies, and trip interruptions for the duration of their stay

• Health Requirements:

  • Follow the health guidelines provided by the Ministry of Health in Tanzania, especially regarding yellow fever and COVID-19

Yellow Fever Requirements

Do I Need a Yellow Fever Vaccination for Tanzania?

For most travelers, a yellow fever vaccination is not required when visiting Tanzania. According to the World Health Organization, Tanzania is classified as a low-risk country for yellow fever. If you are traveling directly from Europe or the United States, you do not need the yellow fever vaccine.

When is the Vaccine Required?

Proof of yellow fever vaccination is only required if you are traveling from a country with a risk of yellow fever or if you transit through such a country for 12 hours or more. If this applies to you, ensure you receive the vaccination at least 10 days before travel and carry proof of vaccination.

Exemptions

If your doctor advises against the vaccine due to health reasons, you can travel with an official letter from your doctor explaining the exemption.

Additional Resources

• For detailed guidelines and more information, visit the Tanzania eVisa Guidelines page.

• Stay updated with entry requirements and visa policies by checking the Tanzania Immigration Department website.

By following these steps and considerations, you can ensure a smooth visa application process for your trip to Tanzania and Zanzibar. Safe travels!