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Apply for Tanzania e-Visa Online | Fast and Easy Process

May 8, 2023

13 min read

The United Republic of Tanzania introduced the e-Visa system in November 2018, allowing citizens to apply for a visa (online) to enter Zanzibar and Tanzania Mainland.

Type of visa: Tanzania Evisa

Tanzania evisa fees: USD 50

Visa processing time: 10 business days

Is there a visa on arrival? Yes, Tanzania has visa on arrival

The quickest way to apply? Atlys.


What Tanzania e-Visa Should I Apply For?

U.S. nationals can apply for the Tanzania eVisa before traveling to Tanzania. You may also apply for a Tanzania visa on arrival if you want to get a visa at the airport. However, applying for an eVisa is faster and more convenient.

US nationals can apply for the following visa:

  • Ordinary visa: This is the standard visa for individuals who wish to enter Tanzania for tourism, leisure, or short-term visits. It is valid for a maximum of 90 days.
  • Multiple entry visa: This visa allows individuals to enter and exit Tanzania multiple times within a specified period. It is valid for up to 12 months and is typically used for business or frequent travel purposes.

These visas will be discussed in more detail on the Types Of Tanzania Visas.

Cheetah yawning on the Serengeti plains of Tanzania

Required Documents For Tanzania Ordinary Visa

For the Ordinary Visa, you'll need to collect the following documents:

Required Documents For Tanzania Multiple Entry Visa

For the Multiple Entry Visa, you'll need to collect the following documents:

  • A copy of your valid passport (biometric info page),
  • A letter of invitation. This can be obtained through your hotel or Airbnb
  • If visiting a spouse, a copy of a marriage certificate and your spouse's I.D./Passport
  • A return flight ticket
  • Paid 100 USD visa Fee
  • An online Health Surveillance Form (more about this later)

Additional Documents

In addition to the documents listed above, you should gather a few different documents.

Now, these are not mandatory documents to meet the Tanzania Visa requirements, but having these will help prove the purpose of your trip when you apply for the Tanzania evisa.

  • A complete flight itinerary
  • Proof of accommodation

How To Get A Tanzania e-Visa In Minutes?

Have you ever found that applying for a visa is very stressful and tedious? From missing documents to tiny errors and websites crashing, all left you wondering if you will ever get this visa. However, with Atlys, you can complete a Tanzania evisa application error-free in under 10 minutes.

This sounds crazy, right?

But this is what you can expect from Atlys:

  • Straightforward application process - this can be done in minutes!
  • Support with gathering your documents - Atlys helps you gather all the required documents.
  • Step-by-step instructions - Atlys will be there every step of the way!

Still don't believe me? Download the Atlys app and start your Tanzania evisa application now.

Tanzania E-Visa application process for US citizens on the Atlys app

How Do I Get A Tanzania Visa Online Step-by-step?

Obtaining an e-Visa for Tanzania is simple. As long as you meet the visa requirements and follow the steps indicated below for the Tanzania evisa application online, you'll have your eVisa for Tanzania in no time.

You can complete your visa application online through Atlys. It's as easy as downloading the app and scanning your passport's barcode. By using the app, you're eliminating any chances of making mistakes when completing your applications.

Step 1 - Gather All The Required Documents

The first step shouldn't take too long, as the document requirements are pretty straightforward. Just be sure to upload your documents onto your computer/laptop before applying.

Your photo and passport copies must be under 300KB. If not, they won't load. Instead, try using Atlys' free passport photo tool to get your photo in minutes.

Step 2 - Complete The Tanzania Online Visa Application

Here comes the tedious part. You now need to head over to the government's online portal to make your Visa application online.

I'll walk you through the entire application process and what you can expect.

  • Start your visa application

First, head over to the Tanzania online visa application and select "Start new application". You'll be redirected to a new page.

In this section, provide information about yourself and save the application I.D. Each application is associated with your passport number.

Often, the information is not saved, so completing this in one sitting is recommended. Ensure everything matches the information on your documents.

visa application

After entering your details, you'll receive a unique application I.D. Ensure that you write it down and keep it safe. Then, if you decide to complete your application later, you can use this unique I.D. to log back in.

  • Enter your personal information

Next, you'll be asked to enter your personal information. This consists mainly of your name(s), date of birth, and nationality.

Make sure your information is correct; otherwise, your Tanzania Visa application form may be denied.

personal information
  • Enter your employment details

Tanzania requires information about your employment to ascertain that you have an incentive to return to your home country. You can put 'N.A.' in the 'Employer' and 'Occupation' fields if you're retired.

employment details
  • Enter your passport details

When entering your passport details on the Tanzania visa application online, ensure that your details are the same as your actual passport. Remember, small mistakes like entering an incorrect passport number can lead to your visa being denied.

Passport details
  • Enter your travel information

Here is where you need to fill in details about your trip and the type of visa you're applying for under "Type of visa requested." Now, under "the purpose of your trip ", you must select tourism. Finally, if you're a U.S. citizen, you'll find an option that says "bilateral agreement ".

Sometimes, you'll find the options won't load (see the image below). If this happens, refresh your page until it works.

not working
Next, Tanzania requires information about your accommodation as well as your host. For hosts, we recommend putting 'self.' Under the accommodation section, enter the address you plan to stay at.
travel information
  • Upload your documents.

Tanzania requires a photo of your passport, proof of flight reservations to Tanzania and back, and your own photo. If your photos are more than 300KB, use this tool to compress them.

Upload your documents
  • Review your application

Before submitting your Visa application online, ensure that all the information you provide is correct and accurate. Be diligent. As mentioned, small mistakes can lead to a denied visa.

Step 3 - Submit Your Application

After completing your application, you need to pay the Tanzania evisa fees. Once you've completed the payment, you'll be notified about your application via email.

There are evisa payment issues that you may encounter. Please familiarize yourself with these and how to solve them before submitting your application.

Step 4 - Wait For Feedback

Now, all you need to do is wait patiently for your visa to be processed.

Your visa will be processed within 10 business days. However, the average time is around three (3) days. Then, once approved, you'll receive an email with your new Tanzania e-Visa.

You also have the option to check your Tanzania visa status online. Just head over to the online portal and select Check Visa Status.

Wait For Feedback
You can check the status of your visa

Afterward, you'll be redirected to the page below. Just enter your travel information to check your visa status.

Visa status

Step 5 - Travel To Tanzania

Once you have submitted your visa online and your application is approved, you'll receive an email with your new Tanzania visa for USA citizens.


Things To Know Before You Apply For The E-Visa

Here are a few important things to know about the Tanzania Visa for U.S. citizens. Keep these in mind before you apply for a Tanzania visa online.

How Much Is The e-Visa Fee?

The fee payable depends on the type of e-Visa you apply for. For your convenience, I'll list the fees for each e-visa available (in USD):

  • For the Ordinary Visa - 50 USD
  • For the Multiple Entry Visa - 100 USD
  • For the Business Visa - 250 USD
  • For the Transit Visa - 30 USD
  • For the Student Visa - 50 USD, 250 USD, or 550 USD depending on the type and duration of the visa

Atlys only charges 20 USD for a Tanzania Visa for U.S. citizens. Instead of applying online, why not rather apply through an app?

How Long Is A Tanzania E Visa Valid For?

Once you obtain your Ordinary Visa, it will be valid for 30 or 90 days (depending on the duration of your trip).

For the Multiple Entry Visa, once you receive it, it will be valid for 12 months. Nonetheless, you're not allowed to stay in Tanzania for 12 consecutive months.

The general rule is that you must leave Tanzania after a 3-month stay.

What Is The Processing Time For The Tanzania e-Visa?

According to the government website, the e-Visa processing time is usually within 10 days of submitting a complete application.

Be mindful that incomplete applications can lead to your Tanzania Visa application form being denied.

It's important to review your application before submitting it to ensure everything you entered is correct and accurate.

Can I Get A Visa On Arrival For Tanzania?

Yes.

There is a Tanzania Visa On Arrival option. However, only certain airports within Tanzania will issue a Visa upon Arrival.

The waiting time is around 2 hours. However, you may need to wait longer for your visa during peak seasons. For this reason, it's recommended that you apply online through Atlys.

Does Zanzibar And Tanzania Share The Same Visa Policy?

If you plan on traveling to Zanzibar, it's important to understand that Zanzibar and Tanzania share the same visa policy.

There is no official Zanzibar e-Visa. Instead, you need to apply for the Tanzania e-Visa when planning a trip to Zanzibar.

If you're planning to visit Kenya from Tanzania, make sure to apply for your Kenya Visa on Arrival.


General Things To Consider

In addition to the points mentioned above, here are a few more points to consider when applying for the Tanzania e-Visa:

  • Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after you plan to exit Tanzania.
  • Your ordinary visa and multiple entry visa can only be used for tourism purposes.
  • Each traveler needs to apply for their own Tanzania e-Visa separately.
  • Without an electronic permit, you cannot extend your stay in Tanzania.

Types Of Tanzania Visas

Here are the different types of visas available for Tanzania:

  • The Ordinary Visa: The Ordinary Visa is the standard single-entry Tourist Visa issued to most foreigners around the globe. It allows you to visit Tanzania for tourist purposes only. Such purposes include tourism, leisure, holiday, attending a conference, humanitarian and charity activities, family visits, etc.

Applying for an ordinary visa should you require medical treatment in Tanzania is also possible. Nonetheless, take note that you'll need to submit relevant documents for the purpose of your trip.

Suppose you plan to visit Tanzania for medical reasons. In that case, you'll need to submit a letter from a recognized medical official stating that you must receive medical attention in Tanzania.

Once you obtain your Tanzania evisa, it will be valid for 30 or 90 days (depending on the duration of your trip).

  • The Multiple Entry Visa: Citizens from the U.S. will be happy to learn that they can apply for the Multiple Entry Visa too. Remember that the Tanzania Multiple Entry Visa will only be granted for tourism.

When applying for your Tanzania evisa, you must select the Multiple Entry Visa when applying for the visa online.

Furthermore, the Multiple Entry Visa has its own set of requirements. Therefore, be sure to gather all the requirements (indicated during the online application process) before starting your application.

  • Business Visa: This type of visa is designed for individuals who intend to visit Tanzania for business-related activities, such as attending conferences, meetings, or exploring business opportunities. The Business Visa is typically valid for a period of 90 days, and this Visa is neither renewable nor extendable unless a special permission is granted by the Commissioner General of Immigration.

  • Transit Visa: This visa is intended for individuals who are passing through Tanzania to reach their final destination. The Transit Visa is valid for a maximum of seven days and can only be used once.

  • Gratis Visa: This type of visa is issued free of charge to individuals who are visiting Tanzania for official government duties, diplomatic missions, or humanitarian reasons. The Gratis Visa is typically valid for a period of 90 days and can be extended upon request.

  • Student Visa: This visa is intended for individuals who wish to study in Tanzania. It is valid for a period of one year and can be extended as long as the student remains enrolled in an accredited institution.

What Are The Tanzania Entry Ports?

Unfortunately, you can't enter Tanzania from anywhere. Instead, there are 5 specific ports of entry you must use to enter Tanzania. Take a look:

  • Julius Nyerere International Airport (JNIA);
  • Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA);
  • Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (AAKIA);
  • Namanga border;
  • Tunduma border.

Your entry into Tanzania may be denied if you enter through other ports.


How To Complete The Tanzania Health Surveillance Form?

All incoming travelers must complete an online health surveillance form twenty-four hours before departure. If you use Atlys for your visa, this is automatically done for you free of cost.

This form is a short recap of the visa - enter your accommodation address, dates, and contact information.

  • Traveler Information: Mention your name, age, flight number, and mode of transport in this section.
Traveler Information
  • Trip Details:

Provide details about your trip in this section, including dates and accommodation.

Trip Detail
  • Illness Details:

Mention any illness that might have occurred in the last week before arrival in Tanzania.

Illness Details
  • Unique Health Code:

Upon submission, you will get a unique health code, aka "traveler code," that you must save and present upon arrival in Tanzania.


All Done

And there you have it, a complete guide on how to successfully apply for your Tanzania e-Visa. I hope this blog has answered the question of "How do I get a Tanzania Visa online?". Once you've successfully obtained your visa, it's time to celebrate and get excited about your next great adventure in Africa!

Will you use Atlys for your Tanzania E-visa application?

Be sure to read our FAQ section for more information about the Tanzania e-Visa.

Government Sources

The information in this post was all gathered from trusted government sources:

This blog was written and fact-checked with AI assistance.

Written By: Armando Du Preez
Fact Checked By: Richard Nathan

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I Need A Visa To Go To Tanzania?

Yes, you do. You must apply for your Tanzania visa online at least a week or two before travel. A multiple-entry visa is the only type of visa available to holders of American passports.

How Long Does It Take To Get A Tanzania Visa

Please note that Visa applications will be processed within ten days of submission. To ensure timely consideration, applicants are strongly advised to observe the provided stipulated timeline when making their submissions.

How To Get A Tanzania e-Visa For Minors?

Children are required to get an e-Visa for Tanzania as well. During your (the parent's) online application process, you must enter your child's details under the Travel companion section.

You need to apply for their Tanzania e-Visa separately. When doing this, under the Travel companion section, enter your details. You can now enjoy all the national treasures of Tanzania.

Can I Get Tanzania Visa Online?

Yes. Travelers can now conveniently apply for an online visa to visit both the Tanzania Mainland and Zanzibar. The process entails filling out an online application, submitting it, and making payment, all in a few clicks.

How Do I Know If My Visa Is Approved?

You will get an email with your approved Tanzania visa. Remember to check your spam folder, just in case.

How Do I Pay For A Tanzania Visa?

If you apply for an eVisa, you can pay online at the end of your application.

What Do I Need To Present Upon Entry Into Tanzania?

Once you enter Tanzania, you need to present the following:

  • Your passport
  • Your e-Visa
  • Your Health Surveillance Form
  • A negative COVID-19 RT-PCR or NAATs test result was taken within 96 hours before departure
Do I Need To Enter Tanzania On The Exact Dates As Specified In My Application?

No. You can enter Tanzania on any date you choose within the validity period of your visa. For example, if your visa is issued from January 1 - March 1, you can enter Tanzania on January 15 if you like.

What Are The Photo Requirements For The e-Visa?
  • The photo size is 45x40 mm.
  • The facial expression should be neutral.
  • Eyes must be visible clearly.
  • The background of the photo should be white or off-white.
  • Headgear cannot be worn except for religious purposes.
  • The photo should contain your whole face.
  • Your photo should be a recent one, less than six months.
What Visa Should Americans Get For Tanzania?

Americans can only apply for a Multiple Entry Visa and can only enter as tourists.

Can I Extend My e-Visa?

Yes. Suppose you wish to extend your e-Visa for Tanzania. In that case, you need to visit the immigration center located in Dar es Salaam. Once there, you'll find a visa extension application. After completing the request, your application will be processed in a few days.

Be mindful that you must extend your e-visa before it expires.

What Countries Are Eligible To Apply For The e-Visa?

Albania, Algeria, American Samoa, Andorra, Angola, Argentina, Armenia, Aruba, Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Belarus, Belgium, Benin, Bhutan, Bolivia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Bulgaria, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cambodia, Cameroon, Canada, Cape Verde, Central African Republic, Chile, China, Colombia, Comoros, Congo, Costa Rica, Ivory Coast, Croatia, Cuba, Curacao, the Czech Republic, Democratic Republic of Congo, Denmark, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Estonia, Fiji, Finland, France, French Polynesia, Gabon, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Greenland, Guadeloupe, Guam, Guatemala, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Haiti, Honduras, Hungary, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Ireland, Israel, and Italy, Japan, Jordan, Kuwait, Laos, Latvia, Liberia, Libya, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Maldives, Marshall Islands, Martinique, Mexico, Micronesia, Moldova, Monaco, Mongolia, Montenegro, Morocco, Myanmar, Nepal, Netherlands, New Caledonia, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Nigeria, Niue, North Korea, Norway, Oman, Pakistan, Palau, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Pitcairn Islands, Poland, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Qatar, Reunion, Russia, SSaint Barthelemy, Saint Martin, Saint Pierre and Miquelon, San Marino, Sao Tome and Principe, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, South Sudan, Spain, Sudan, Suriname, Sweden, Switzerland, Syria, Taiwan, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Togo, Tunisia, Turkey, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States of America, Uruguay, U.S. Virgin Islands, Venezuela, Vietnam, Wallis and Futuna, and Yemen.

What Countries Need To Apply For A Traditional Tanzania Visa?

If you're from the following countries: Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Abkhazia, Bangladesh, Chad, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Georgia, Iran, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Lebanon, Mali, Mauritania, Nigeria, Niger, Pakistan, Palestine, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sri Lanka - you need to apply for a Visa at your local Tanzania Embassy or Consulate.

How Do I Check My Visa Status?

You can check your Tanzania Visa status by logging into the online portal with your details.

Do I Need A Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate To Enter Tanzania

Yellow Fever vaccine is required if traveling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. More Information can be found by visiting the CDC website.

Which Countries Are Visa-Free To Tanzania?

If you're from one of the following countries, you don't need a visa for Tanzania:

Antigua and Barbuda, Anguilla, Ashmore & Certie Island, Bahamas, Barbados, Bermuda, Belize, Brunei, British Virgin Island, British Indian Ocean Territory, Botswana, Cyprus, Cayman Island, Channel Island, Cook Island, Cocoas Island, Christmas Island, Dominica, Falkland Island, Gambia, Ghana, Gibraltar, Grenada, Guyana, Heard Island, Hong Kong, Isle of Man, Jamaica, Jersey, Kenya, Kiribati, Lesotho, Malawi, Montserrat, Malaysia, Madagascar, Malta, Mauritius, Macao, Mozambique, Nauru, Namibia, Norfolk, Papua New Guinea, Rwanda, Romania, Ross Dependency, Samoa, Seychelles, Singapore, Swaziland, Solomon Island, St. Kitts&Navis, St. Lucia, St. Vicent, St. Helana, South African Republic, Trinidad & Tobago, Turks & Caicos, Tokelan Tonga, Uganda, Vanuatu, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

How Long Can Tourists Stay In Tanzania?

You can stay for as long as your visa is valid, which is usually between 30-90 days.

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