Tanzania is one of the most popular safari destinations in the world, and most travelers visiting for tourism will need a tourist visa to enter the country. Here’s how to get yours quickly and smoothly:
Step 1: Determine Your Visa Type
For tourism, you will need a single-entry tourist visa, which allows you to stay in Tanzania for up to 90 days.
Other types of visas are:
- Multiple-entry visa: For travelers who plan multiple visits.
- Transit visa: For passing through Tanzania to another country.
Tourism Tip: Most safari-goers only need the single-entry tourist visa.
Step 2: Choose How to Apply
There are two ways to get your tourist visa:
- Online eVisa (Recommended)
- Apply online at the official website: https://eservices.immigration.go.tz/visa
- Saves time and avoids long lines at the airport.
- Convenient if you want a stress-free safari start.
- Visa on Arrival
- Available at major airports like Kilimanjaro International Airport and Julius Nyerere International Airport.
- Can be slower during peak safari season, as lines can be long.
- Payable in USD cash (exact fee depends on nationality).
Pro Tip for Tourists: Apply for the eVisa before traveling to focus on planning your safari and sightseeing without worrying about immigration delays.
Step 3: Gather Required Documents
Before applying, make sure you have:
- Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates.
- Passport-sized Photo: Recent, with a plain background.
- Travel Itinerary: Flight bookings or proof of onward travel.
- Accommodation Details: Confirmed hotel or lodge reservations.
- Payment: Credit/debit card for eVisa or USD cash for visa on arrival.
Tourism Tip: Keep a digital copy of all documents in case you need them on your safari.
Step 4: Complete the eVisa Application
- Visit the official eVisa website.
- Create an account using your email.
- Fill in personal details, passport info, and your travel plans.
- Upload your passport photo and scanned passport bio page.
- Pay the visa fee online.
- Submit the application and wait for approval.
Processing Time: Usually 2–5 business days, so apply at least 1–2 weeks before your trip.
Step 5: Receive and Print Your eVisa
- Once approved, you’ll receive an eVisa approval letter via email.
- Print two copies: one for airport immigration and one as backup.
- Double-check all details for accuracy – especially passport number and travel dates.
Step 6: Enter Tanzania
- Present your passport and printed eVisa at the airport.
- Immigration officers may take your photo and fingerprints.
- Receive your entry stamp, and then you’re ready to start your adventure!
Tourism Tip: Have your safari booking confirmation ready – some immigration officers may ask for it.
Step 7: Optional Visa Extensions
- If you plan to stay longer than 90 days, you can extend your visa at a Tanzania Immigration Office.
- Most tourists visiting for safaris or beaches won’t need an extension.
Visa Fees for Tourism
- Single-entry tourist visa: ~$50–100 USD
- Multiple-entry tourist visa: ~$100–150 USD
- Payment: Credit/debit card for eVisa or USD cash for visa on arrival
Tip: Fees may vary depending on nationality, so always check the official website before traveling.
Quick Tourism Checklist
- Passport valid for 6+ months
- Printed eVisa or cash for visa on arrival
- Safari and accommodation confirmations
- Travel itinerary
- Copies of passport and visa for safety
Friendly Tourism Advice
- Apply for the eVisa to save time and start your safari relaxed.
- Keep some USD cash handy for tips and park fees.
- Make sure your passport has enough blank pages for stamps.
- Always carry digital copies of your travel documents during your trip.
Summary
Getting a tourist visa for Tanzania is simple if you follow these steps. By applying in advance, you can focus on planning your safari, beach holiday, or adventure in one of Africa’s most stunning destinations without stress.
Tanzania awaits with wildlife safaris, breathtaking landscapes, Mount Kilimanjaro, and Zanzibar beaches all ready for your unforgettable adventure!