Planning a safari, Kilimanjaro climb or Zanzibar holiday? This guide explains who may need a Tanzania tourist visa, how much it costs, the documents to prepare and how to apply before travelling.
Updated August 2026 · 6-minute read
Reviewed by the SafariHQ Tanzania Team
| What to know | Current guidance |
|---|---|
| Tourist visa fee | USD 50 for an ordinary visa |
| Typical validity | Single entry for up to 90 days |
| Application methods | Online eVisa or visa on arrival for eligible travellers |
| Passport validity | At least six months with one unused visa page |
| Zanzibar | The Tanzania visa covers Zanzibar, but separate travel insurance requirements apply |
Apply on the Official eVisa Website
Check Visa Requirements
The official Immigration portal confirms that ordinary visas currently cost USD 50, while multiple-entry visas cost USD 100. Tanzania Immigration eVisa guidelines
Do I Need a Visa to Visit Tanzania?
Whether you need a visa depends on the passport you are travelling with.
Travellers generally fall into one of three categories:
Visa-exempt travellers
Citizens of certain countries can enter Tanzania without obtaining a visa for a short visit. Because exemption lists can change, always confirm your nationality on the official Tanzania Immigration website.
Ordinary tourist visa applicants
Many international visitors travelling for a safari, beach holiday, Kilimanjaro climb or family visit require an ordinary tourist visa. It normally permits a single entry and a stay of up to 90 days.
Referral visa applicants
Citizens of certain countries require additional approval before travelling. Referral visa applicants should apply well in advance and should not rely on obtaining a visa on arrival.
Important: SafariHQ can help provide itinerary and accommodation confirmation, but visas are issued only by the Tanzania Immigration Services Department.
| Visa type | Current fee | General validity |
|---|---|---|
| Ordinary tourist visa | USD 50 | Single entry for up to 90 days |
| Multiple-entry visa | USD 100 | Up to 12 months, subject to visa conditions |
What Documents Do You Need?
Prepare the following before starting your application:
- A passport valid for at least six months
- At least one unused visa page
- A clear copy of your passport’s information page
- A recent passport-style photograph
- Return or onward flight details
- Accommodation or safari itinerary details
- A payment card for the visa fee
- Any additional documents requested for your nationality
The official terms require a passport with at least six months’ validity and no fewer than one unused visa page. Tanzania eVisa terms and conditions
How to Apply for a Tanzania eVisa
1. Visit the official portal
Apply through the official Tanzania eVisa website. Avoid unofficial websites that may charge additional service fees.
2. Complete the application
Enter your passport, travel and accommodation information carefully. The details must match the passport you will use to enter Tanzania.
3. Upload your documents and pay
Upload the requested documents and complete the visa payment online.
4. Wait for approval
The official guidance states that standard online applications are generally processed within ten days, although referral visas can take considerably longer. Apply at least two to three weeks before departure whenever possible.
5. Travel with your approval
Carry a printed or easily accessible digital copy of your visa approval together with your passport and travel documents.
Can You Get a Tanzania Visa on Arrival?
Eligible travellers can obtain a visa on arrival at Tanzania’s designated entry points. However, this may involve additional forms and longer queues, particularly when several international flights arrive together.
Applying online before departure is generally the more convenient option. Travellers requiring referral approval must apply before travelling.
Does a Tanzania Visa Cover Zanzibar?
Yes. A visa issued for the United Republic of Tanzania covers travel in both mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar. You do not need a separate Zanzibar visa.
However, Zanzibar has a separate mandatory inbound travel-insurance requirement. Travellers including Zanzibar in their itinerary should check and purchase the required cover through the official Zanzibar insurance portal. This insurance is separate from your Tanzania visa and personal travel insurance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for a Tanzania tourist visa online?
Yes. Eligible travellers can apply through the official Tanzania Immigration eVisa portal before departure.
How long does a Tanzania eVisa take?
Official guidance states that standard applications are normally processed within ten days. Referral visa applications can take longer, so early application is strongly recommended.
Can I obtain a visa when I arrive in Tanzania?
Visa on arrival remains available for eligible nationalities. Check your eligibility before flying because some travellers require prior approval.
Is the Tanzania visa valid for Zanzibar?
Yes. The same Tanzania visa covers mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar. Zanzibar’s mandatory inbound travel insurance is a separate requirement.
Can SafariHQ arrange my visa?
SafariHQ does not issue visas. We can provide supporting travel documents, such as your confirmed itinerary and accommodation details, but the traveller remains responsible for applying through Tanzania Immigration.
Planning a Tanzania Safari?
Once your entry requirements are checked, our Tanzania-based safari specialists can help organise the rest—from private airport transfers and carefully selected lodges to a personalised safari and Zanzibar itinerary.
Button: Plan My Tanzania Safari
