Entry Requirements for Tanzania: What You Need to Know Before You Go
Planning a trip to Tanzania? Here's a quick guide to the entry requirements you need to meet to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.
You’ll read most of the stuff below online, but what they won’t tell you is how ancient the immigration website is and how many times people have been charged double via the website! My suggestion for you is to just do your visa on arrival which is extremely easy! The only downside is having to wait in lines. Keep in mind I’ve had travelers wait over and hour and I’ve had travelers get through in 10 minutes.
If I were you, I’d wait to get your visa on arrival to avoid all the website issues!!
Update as of October 2024!!: All travelers planning to visit Zanzibar will have to purchase the $40 Zanzibar government insurance. You can purchase this online, but again, their website is ancient and i’ve heard of people being charged twice with no way to get a refund. Your best and most secure option is to pay for the $40 mandatory insurance in person upon arrival! Please note, even if you have travel insurance you HAVE to get the new government insurance they are offering on the island. It is mandatory!!
For more information on entry requirements, visas, etc, please read all the information below!
Visa Requirements
Most travelers to Tanzania will need a visa. You have a couple of options for obtaining one:
eVisa: Apply online before your trip via the Tanzania Immigration Department's website. This is a convenient option that allows you to complete the process from home. Please only use the official website for your visa!! Other websites will charge a fee.
Visa on Arrival: Available at major entry points, including airports and land borders. The fee is $50 for most nationalities and $100 for U.S. citizens. (I highly recommend visa on arrival as it’s a super easy process. Just be sure to bring crisp, new notes/bills as their credit card machines are sometimes not working.)
Passport Validity
Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your date of entry and have at least one blank page for the visa stamp. This is a critical requirement, so make sure to check your passport before you travel.
Vaccination Requirements
Travelers from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission must present a yellow fever vaccination certificate upon arrival. This applies to travelers over one year old. If you’re only transiting through a yellow fever risk country, this requirement does not apply. Below you can see a list of countries that are within the yellow fever vaccine requirements. If you are traveling from any of the countries below to Tanzania, they will require proof of yellow fever vaccine:
Health Guidelines
While Tanzania has lifted many COVID-19 entry restrictions, it’s always wise to check for the latest health guidelines from the Ministry of Health before your trip. Staying informed ensures you comply with any new measures that might be in place.
Other Documents
Be prepared to show:
A return or onward ticket
Evidence of sufficient funds for your stay
Final Tips
Stay Updated: Entry requirements can change, so check for updates close to your departure date.
Be Prepared: Have all necessary documents ready and easily accessible to avoid any last-minute issues at immigration.
For more detailed information and to apply for your visa, visit the Tanzania Immigration Department's website. Safe travels and enjoy your adventure in Tanzania!