There are 3 ways of getting a tourist visa for Tanzania: online, on arrival or from a consulate. Let me tell you which way is better and why!
eVisa, is it the best?
The eVisa is the most convenient method and can be obtained through the official Tanzania Immigration website. Applicants need to fill out an online form, upload required documents (such as a passport copy and a recent passport-sized photo), and pay the visa fee using a credit or debit card. Processing usually takes up to 10 business days, so it is advisable to apply at least two weeks before travel. Once approved, the eVisa is emailed to the applicant and must be printed for presentation upon arrival in Tanzania. Sounds amazing? It’s not! Unfortunately in reality the online system is very inefficient and many travelers struggle to get their already paid for visas before their flight departs. This can cause a lot of stress and unnecessary wait on arrival proving to the immigration officers that the payment has been already processed.
What’s the cost involved?
Travelers from eligible countries can get a visa on arrival (3 months) at major entry points, including Julius Nyerere International Airport (Dar es Salaam), Kilimanjaro International Airport, and Zanzibar International Airport. As well as the loand borders like Horohoro from Tanga region side or Namanga close to Arusha. The visa-on-arrival fee is $50 for most nationalities and $100 for U.S. citizens, payable in U.S. dollars.
What type of visitor are you?
Tanzania offers different types of visas, including single-entry visas (valid for 90 days), multiple-entry visas (typically valid for one year but requiring travelers to exit every three months), business visas, and transit visas. Business travelers need an invitation letter from a Tanzanian company, while those transiting through Tanzania for less than seven days can apply for a transit visa.
Before applying, travelers should check visa eligibility requirements, as some nationalities are visa-exempt, while others require pre-approval. Additionally, passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay. For up-to-date visa information, it is best to check the official Tanzania Immigration website.
What if I want to volunteer?
A volunteer visa in Tanzania is an ordinary visa, however a slightly different type than a tourist would need. If traveling for leisure you will be required to obtain class A1 ordinary visa (single entry) for Tanzania. However as a volunteer you will need the class A3 ordinary visa for Tanzania. As a volunteer you are required to submit an invitation letter from a legally registered NGo or other non profit organization and a proof of the organization’s registration. Volunteer visa is valid for 3 months.
If you need a little more help in creating your personalized trip to Tanzania
