Tanzania visitor authorization
Everything you need to apply online: requirements, visa types, official fees, validity, extension guidance, and a clear “How to Apply & Pay” workflow—built for travelers and search engines.
Tip: Prepare your passport scan + photo first. Most delays come from document format issues.
Tanzania visitor authorization is one of the most common search terms used by travelers who want a clear, step‑by‑step explanation of how Tanzania’s visa system works. This page is designed as a practical guide: it summarizes eligibility, documents, official fee references, processing expectations, and what to do after approval—so you can prepare accurately and avoid preventable delays.
Tanzania’s electronic visa (eVisa) is an online application pathway where you submit your personal details, travel purpose, and supporting documents, then receive a Visa Grant Notice by email if approved. The grant notice is presented at the point of entry together with your passport and other entry conditions (for example, a return ticket and valid travel documents).
Because visa rules can change and different nationalities can have different conditions (including referral categories and special requirements), you should treat this guide as a high‑confidence baseline and always reconcile it with the latest official instructions shown in the portal you use.
What the Tanzania eVisa is
The eVisa is an electronic pre‑approval process. You complete the form online, upload documents, and pay the required fee. After internal review, you receive a grant notice (approval) by email.
This approach is preferred by many travelers because it reduces uncertainty at arrival and allows you to fix document issues before you fly.
Who should use it
If you want a predictable entry process, you should apply online—especially if your nationality may fall under referral rules, if your travel date is close, or if you need a record of submission for planning purposes.
Even travelers eligible for visa on arrival often choose the online path for speed and documentation control.
Tanzania Visa Types, Uses, Validity, and Fees
| Visa Type | Typical Use | Entries | Validity | Official Fee (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ordinary (Single-Entry) Tourist/Visitor Visa USA passport holders are typically required to apply for Multiple Entry even for tourism. | Tourism, holiday, visiting friends/relatives, attending meetings, workshops, exhibitions. | Single | Up to 90 days | USD 50 |
| Multiple-Entry Visa Eligibility rules apply; supporting letters/documents may be required. | Frequent visits (e.g., USA citizens for tourism, certain directors, spouses, bilateral meetings, NGO reps—subject to eligibility). | Multiple | Up to 12 months; max 90 days per visit | USD 100 |
| Business Visa Cannot be used to take employment; if over 3 months, consider work/residence permit. | Short assignments (repairs, training), professional engagements, feasibility studies, business contacts; not a residence permit. | Single | Up to 90 days | USD 250 |
| Transit Visa For transit only; confirm onward travel proof. | Passing through Tanzania en route to another destination. | Single | Short stay (often up to 7 days depending on conditions) | USD 30 |
| Student/Academic Visa (selected cases) Host institution letter required; applicants from visa-exempt countries may need a student pass. | Research, internship, volunteering, exchange programs, admitted students. | Varies | Depends on category (≤90 days or longer) | From USD 50 / 250 / 300 / 550 |
Fee references above reflect commonly published government fee tables and guidelines; service fees (if any) are separate from government fees.
Core document checklist
- Passport biodata page (clear scan; valid for at least 6 months)
- Recent passport photo (plain background; JPG/JPEG; size limits may apply)
- Return or onward ticket (or itinerary where allowed)
- Travel details (arrival point, dates, accommodation)
- Additional proof depending on visa type (e.g., business letter, host letter)
Common reasons for delays
- Blurry passport scans or cropped edges
- Photo not matching specifications (background, shadows, size)
- Mismatch between passport data and form fields
- Missing supporting letters for business/multiple entry eligibility
- Payment not completed or not confirmed
How to Apply & Pay (Step-by-Step)
1) Start the online application
Open the application portal, create or use your email-based login, and select the correct visa type and travel purpose. Accuracy matters—once submitted, changes may be limited.
2) Fill the application carefully
Enter passport details exactly as shown on the passport. Provide the correct arrival date, entry point, and contact details. Keep your itinerary consistent across uploads.
3) Upload supporting documents
Upload your passport biodata page, photo, and any required attachments. Ensure files are readable and within the allowed size and format.
4) Pay online securely
After completing the form, you will be prompted to pay the applicable government fee. Use a payment method accepted by the portal and ensure the transaction completes successfully.
5) Submit and keep your reference
After payment, submit the application. Save your application reference number and confirmation email, which you can use to track status.
6) Receive your visa grant notice by email
Once approved, you will receive a grant notice. Print or save a copy and carry it with your passport when you travel.
Processing Time, Urgent Applications, and Approval Expectations
Typical processing windows
Processing time depends on nationality, visa type, and document completeness. If your travel date is close, apply early and ensure uploads are correct the first time to avoid rework.
Referral cases and special categories can require longer lead times and additional review.
How to reduce risk of rejection
Use high-quality scans, keep names and numbers consistent, and submit a complete file set. If your trip includes Zanzibar, safari routes, or multiple entries, ensure your visa type matches your plan.
Do not purchase non-refundable tickets until you have sufficient confidence in your timeline and category requirements.
Visa Validity, Entry Rules, and How to Extend Your Stay
Validity vs. permitted stay
Validity describes the time period during which you may use the visa for entry. Permitted stay describes how long you can remain after entry. Always follow the exact conditions on your visa grant notice and entry stamp.
For example, ordinary tourist visas are commonly issued for stays up to 90 days, while multiple-entry visas can be valid for up to 12 months but typically limit each stay to a maximum of 90 days.
Extensions / renewals
Extensions (where allowed) are processed by immigration authorities inside Tanzania and depend on your status, compliance, and purpose of stay. Apply before your authorized stay expires and bring supporting documentation (accommodation, funds, onward travel, and purpose evidence).
If your purpose changes (e.g., work, long-term residence), you may need a different permit rather than a simple extension.
Zanzibar, Safaris, National Parks, and Combined Itineraries
Visiting Zanzibar
Many travelers land in Zanzibar and later continue to Mainland Tanzania (or the reverse). In most cases, you apply once and can travel within Tanzania without applying again, provided your visa remains valid and you follow entry rules.
Keep your hotel or host details available, as immigration officers can request proof of stay and onward travel.
Safaris and adventure travel
If you’re planning safari circuits (Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire) or hiking Kilimanjaro, your visa category typically remains “tourism” unless you are conducting professional assignments. Ensure your travel purpose is consistent with your itinerary.
For frequent border crossings in East Africa, consider whether your itinerary requires multiple entries, and confirm whether your visa remains valid for re-entry.
Check Application Status and Track Your Tanzania eVisa
What you need to track
Keep your application reference, the email used for login, and the passport number. These are commonly used to check status and to verify submission details.
If you do not receive updates, check spam/junk folders and ensure your inbox can receive automated system emails.
If you see an error
Error messages often relate to file format, image size, or payment confirmation. Re-uploading a corrected document or retrying payment through a supported card can resolve most cases.
If the portal requests additional documents, respond quickly to keep your timeline on track.
Tanzania Visa FAQs
Is Tanzania eVisa valid for both Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar?
Generally, one approved Tanzania eVisa allows entry to the United Republic of Tanzania, including Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar. You normally select your first destination in the form, then you can travel onward within Tanzania without applying again.
When should I apply for a Tanzania visa online?
Apply as soon as you have a confirmed itinerary and passport ready. Referral categories can require longer lead times. Applying early reduces the risk of delays close to departure.
What documents are usually required for the Tanzania eVisa application?
A passport biodata page (valid at least 6 months), a recent passport photo, and proof of onward/return travel are commonly requested. Additional documents may be required based on visa type and nationality.
How do I pay for the Tanzania eVisa?
You complete the online form, upload required documents, then pay online when prompted. Payment methods can vary by portal configuration and bank acceptance.
How long is the tourist visa valid for?
The ordinary (single-entry) visa is commonly valid for up to 90 days. Always confirm the exact validity shown on your grant notice and comply with entry conditions on arrival.
Can I extend or renew a Tanzania visa?
Extensions are handled by immigration authorities in Tanzania and depend on your visa type, purpose, and compliance status. Plan to apply before your authorized stay expires and carry supporting evidence.
What if my online application is rejected or needs more information?
Rejections can happen due to missing/incorrect documents or mismatched information. Correct the issues and reapply, or consult support to ensure your documents meet the required format and criteria.
Do children and minors need a visa for Tanzania?
In most cases, minors also require appropriate entry authorization. Ensure each traveler has the correct documentation and that guardian details align with the application details.
If you are ready to start, use the apply button below. For best results, prepare your passport scan and photo first, then complete the form in one session to minimize mistakes.
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