Traveling to Tanzania: Your Guide to Visa Requirements and Entry Information

Tanzania is an extraordinary destination, offering an incredible mix of wildlife safaris, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re visiting Serengeti National Park, hiking Mount Kilimanjaro, or relaxing in Zanzibar, one of the first steps in planning your trip is understanding the visa requirements and other entry regulations.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the visa application process, health-related entry requirements, and other helpful tips for your journey to Tanzania.

Visa Requirements for Tanzania

For most international visitors, a visa is required to enter Tanzania. The process has become much more convenient with the online e-visa application option, but there are also other ways to obtain a visa, including a visa on arrival at the airport.

How to Apply for a Visa to Tanzania:

Visit the Official Immigration Website: Be sure to use the correct official website for visa applications: Tanzania Visa Information
Complete the Online Application Form: Fill out the form with accurate details. You’ll need your passport details, travel itinerary, and some personal information.
Submit Required Documents: Depending on the visa type (tourist, business, etc.), you might need to submit supporting documents like a passport copy, flight itinerary, hotel bookings, and proof of sufficient funds.
Visa Fee Payment: You can pay the visa fee online during the application process.
Wait for Approval: Once approved, you will receive an e-visa to enter Tanzania, which you must present upon arrival.

Visa Fees for On-Arrival Visa

For visitors who plan to apply for a visa upon arrival at the airport:

US passport holders: $100 per person
Other countries: $50 per person
Please note, only cash is accepted for visa payments at the airport—credit cards are not accepted, so make sure to have the required cash in USD.

Types of Visas

Tourist Visa: For leisure travel or vacations.
Business Visa: For business-related trips.
Transit Visa: If you’re passing through Tanzania on your way to another country.
Multiple-Entry Visa: For frequent visitors to Tanzania.

Yellow Fever and Health Requirements

One of the most important entry requirements for travelers heading to Tanzania is proof of yellow fever vaccination, especially for travelers coming from countries with a risk of the disease.

Yellow Fever Vaccine

Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for travelers coming from countries with a yellow fever risk. This includes many parts of Africa and South America.
Proof of vaccination must be presented at the immigration desk in the form of a yellow fever vaccination certificate (also known as the International Certificate of Vaccination). The vaccination must have been administered at least 10 days before departure.

Other Health Requirements:

Malaria: Malaria is present in some regions of Tanzania, so it’s recommended to take malaria prophylaxis and carry mosquito repellents.
COVID-19: Be sure to check for any travel restrictions or testing requirements for COVID-19, as these regulations may change over time.
Polio and Other Vaccines: While Tanzania doesn’t require polio vaccination for all visitors, it’s good to ensure your routine vaccinations are up-to-date.

For more information on health-related entry requirements, check out our detailed article: Health-Related Entry Requirements for Visitors to Tanzania.

Additional Entry Requirements Based on Region

Different countries have slightly different entry requirements for Tanzania, depending on the country of origin. Below is a breakdown for travelers coming from the US, UK, Europe, and Asia.

Travelers from the US

Visa: US passport holders are required to apply for a tourist visa before departure or upon arrival in Tanzania.
Yellow Fever: A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required if traveling from countries with yellow fever risk.
Health Insurance: It’s advisable to have travel health insurance covering medical expenses and evacuation, especially for safari activities.

Travelers from the UK

Visa: Travelers from the UK must apply for a Tanzanian visa either online or upon arrival.
Yellow Fever: Yellow fever vaccination may be required if traveling from countries with yellow fever risk. It’s a good idea to get vaccinated if you’re planning to travel to regions with a higher malaria risk.
Travel Health Insurance: Health insurance covering emergency medical care is highly recommended.

Travelers from Europe

Visa: Citizens from most European countries need a visa to enter Tanzania. Schengen Area citizens typically apply for the visa online or upon arrival.
Yellow Fever: European travelers must also provide proof of yellow fever vaccination when coming from yellow fever-endemic regions.
Health Precautions: Travelers should consult their doctor for recommended vaccines and malaria prevention before traveling.

Travelers from Asia

Visa: Travelers from Asia (including the Philippines, China, India, and others) must apply for a tourist visa either online or upon arrival.
Yellow Fever: Depending on the country of origin, yellow fever vaccination might be required, especially if coming from a yellow fever-endemic country.
Health Considerations: Malaria prevention is recommended, and travelers should ensure their vaccinations are up-to-date.

Travel Tips for Tanzania

Currency: The local currency in Tanzania is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). While credit cards are accepted in cities, it’s recommended to carry cash for small purchases in rural areas.
Weather: Tanzania has a tropical climate. The rainy season is from March to May and November to December, so pack accordingly.
Power Adapter: Tanzania uses Type G plugs, the same as the UK. Make sure to bring the correct adapter if needed.

What to Expect at the Border

Immigration Checks: Have your passport, visa (or e-visa), yellow fever vaccination certificate (if required), and any other necessary travel documents ready when you arrive at the border.
Medical Checks: Be prepared for health screenings, especially for yellow fever, malaria, and COVID-19 (if applicable).

Conclusion: Ready to Explore Tanzania?

Now that you have all the essential information about visa requirements, health precautions, and other entry requirements for Tanzania, you’re ready to start planning your adventure! Whether you’re going on a thrilling safari in Serengeti, hiking Mount Kilimanjaro, or enjoying the beaches of Zanzibar, make sure to apply for your visa ahead of time and take the necessary health precautions.

For more tips on preparing for your trip, check out our Packing Checklist for Tanzania.

Need help with your Tanzania trip planning? Contact us today and let’s make your dream safari a reality!