Tanzania Tourist Visa Requirements & E-Visa Guide
Everything international travelers need to know about entry requirements, e-visa application steps, and fees.
Overview & Expert Insight
Entering the United Republic of Tanzania for safaris, Kilimanjaro climbs, or Zanzibar beach vacations is straightforward. Most foreign nationals require a tourist visa, which can be easily obtained online via the official Tanzania Immigration E-Visa portal or upon arrival at major entry ports.
We strongly recommend applying for your E-Visa at least 2 to 3 weeks prior to departure to skip the immigration queue upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR), or Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ).
Key Highlights & Essential Takeaways
- Ordinary Single-Entry Tourist Visa: $50 USD (valid for 90 days for most nationalities)
- United States Citizens: $100 USD (Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa mandatory for US passport holders, valid for 1 year)
- Official Application Portal: eservices.immigration.go.tz/visa
- Passport Validity: Must have at least 6 months validity remaining and 2 blank pages
- Processing Time: 5 to 10 business days for electronic visas
How to Apply for Your Tanzania E-Visa
Step 1: Visit the official government e-Services portal: https://eservices.immigration.go.tz/visa/. Beware of third-party fraudulent websites that charge exorbitant unauthorized processing fees.
Step 2: Fill out your basic bio information, passport details, travel itinerary dates, and local host details. (You can provide Smashing Africa Tours as your registered local host operator in Arusha).
Step 3: Upload a digital copy of your passport bio page (PDF or JPEG) and a clear recent passport-style portrait photo.
Step 4: Pay the application fee ($50 USD or $100 USD for US citizens) securely using Visa or Mastercard.
Step 5: Track your status online. Once approved, download and print the "Grant Notice" to present to immigration officers upon arrival.
- •Always carry a printed copy of your visa confirmation grant notice and return flight ticket.
- •Keep $50 or $100 in crisp US dollar bills printed after 2013 if you choose to get a visa on arrival.
Host Information for Your Visa Form
When completing your visa application, you will be asked for your local host contact in Tanzania. Smashing Africa Tours travelers can provide:
• Host Name: Smashing Africa Tours Ltd
• Registration: TALA Licensed Tour Operator (Tanzania)
• Physical Address: Arusha City, Tanzania
• Contact Telephone: +255 752 765 000
• Official Email: info@smashingafricatours.com
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still get a visa on arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO)?
Yes, visa on arrival is still readily available at Kilimanjaro (JRO), Dar es Salaam (DAR), and Zanzibar (ZNZ) airports. However, lines during peak flight arrivals can take 45–60 minutes, so pre-applying online is recommended.
Do I need a separate visa for Zanzibar if I already have a Tanzania visa?
No! Zanzibar is part of the United Republic of Tanzania. A single Tanzania tourist visa covers your mainland safari, Kilimanjaro trek, and Zanzibar beach stay.
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