A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Apply for a Tanzanian Visa

Embarking on a journey to Tanzania? Navigating the visa application process is a crucial step to ensure a seamless travel experience.

On this blog post you are going to get a concise guide on how to apply for a Tanzanian visa, complete with essential information on payment methods, online application procedures, tracking application status, and important notifications.

But before applying, you must have the following question in your mind:

WHAT ARE THE GUIDELINES FOR APPLYING FOR A TANZANIAN VISA?

Getting a Tanzania Visa is easy, and there are two ways to do it: Online Visa and On-Arrival Visa. With the new Online Visa System, you won’t get visas at the Embassies anymore.

If you’re using the On-Arrival Visa, make sure your nationality isn’t in the Referral Visa category. But it’s smarter for everyone to use the Online Visa platform.

Check if your nationality isn’t in the Referral Visa list if you’re applying for On-Arrival Visa. Online Visa applicants, please read the Visa Guidelines carefully before applying.

Use only the Official Tanzania Immigration website (www.immigration.go.tz) or this link: visa.immigration.go.tz to apply; avoid other links.

Read and agree to the Terms and Conditions on the Visa Portal. Your passport should be valid for six months with one unused visa page.

Apply for the right visa category. If unsure, email info@immigration.go.tz for guidance. Americans coming for holiday need an Ordinary Visa, not Multiple Entry Visa.

Non-American Multiple Visa applicants, follow the requirements carefully. Wrong applications or missing attachments will be rejected without a refund.

Normal Visa processing is ten days, but some may take longer. Wait for Visa approval after payment. Check your email for approval notifications.

If you don’t receive an email, check the Visa Grant Notice here: https://eservices.immigration.go.tz/visa/checkapplicationstatus.

If your Visa isn’t issued on time, email info@immigration.go.tz. The Immigration Services Department may give reasons for rejecting a Visa.

Referral Visa nationals can’t use On-Arrival. Apply Online at least 6 weeks before travel. The list of Referral Visa countries can change, so check the website.

Visa rules can change without notice. Having a Visa doesn’t guarantee entry; the Immigration Officer can refuse if you don’t meet entry requirements. Show your Return Ticket upon arrival.

VISA PAYMENT METHODS:

• You can make your visa fee payment online through Visa or MasterCard.
• Alternatively, you can opt for a Swift transfer by depositing money directly into the bank account at the bank counter.
• After payment, wait a notification confirming the receipt of your payment. Your journey can only commence after the visa approval.

HOW TO APPLY FOR A TANZANIAN VISA ONLINE:

1. Visit the Immigration Services Website at www.immigration.go.tz.
2. Click on the e-services button.
3. Select and click on the e-Visa Application Form.
4. Upload and attach the relevant scanned documents for your visa.
5. Receive an email containing your User Identification Number for online application tracking.
6. Pay the respective visa fee after completing the online application form.
7. Submit your application upon successful payment.
8. Receive a confirmation message indicating the receipt of your application.

HOW TO TRACK A TANZANIAN VISA APPLICATION STATUS:

• After submitting the application, track its progress using your ID Number provided during the application stage.
• Return to the Visa Application System and click the Visa Status button for updates.

NOTIFICATIONS:

• Progress notifications will be sent to the email provided during the online application.
• It’s recommended to periodically track the progress of your application as described above.

ENQUIRY WHILE MAKING VISA APPLICATION:

• For clarifications or guidance during the visa process, send an email to info@immigration.go.tz.

SUMMARY/IMPORTANT NOTES:

• Tourist visa is required for all visitors except USA passport holders who apply for a Multiple Visa.
• If visiting both Tanzania Mainland and Zanzibar, select your first destination when filling the form.
• Nearby Embassy is the one closest to the applicant. Physical appearance may be required for an interview.
• Every passport holder, including minors, must submit a separate visa application.
• No changes can be made once the visa application is submitted.
• Business Visa is not a substitute for a Residence Permit and cannot be extended or renewed.
• Multiple Visa holders (non-USA nationals) must carefully observe category requirements as stated in the Visa Guidelines.
• Multiple Visa is not for residence purposes and allows a maximum stay of 3 months per visit.
• Transit Visa is for passing through Tanzania to other countries and requires an onward ticket.
• Return tickets must be shown upon arrival for all applicants.

Embark on your Tanzanian adventure fully informed and prepared by following these simple steps for a hassle-free visa application process. Make sure you know the Costs of the type of Visa you want before you apply so that you may have a more seamless experience.

Also brush up on your knowledge on the Documents and other Requirements for Applying for a Tanzanian Visa.

Safe travels!