Tanzania to End Visa on Arrival from January 2025

Tanzania is set to streamline entry procedures for international travelers. From 30 January 2025, the country will suspend the issuance of visas on arrival, requiring visitors to obtain an e-Visa prior to departure. The decision, which has already sparked discussion in travel industry circles, marks a significant shift in the welcoming policy of this East African nation.

An Unpredicted Policy U-Turn

For years, Tanzania stood out for its open-door policy, allowing travelers to secure a visa upon arrival—a process often marked by long queues and on-site payments. This flexibility, valued by tourists, enabled spontaneous trip planning. Now, Tanzanian authorities appear to favor a more structured, anticipatory approach to managing tourism flows.

The initial announcement sparked confusion and rumor. A purported circular circulating online in November 2024 claimed visa-on-arrival services would end by November 2024, sowing uncertainty among tour operators and travelers. In response, the Tanzanian government clarified that the service would remain available for now and encouraged the use of the e-Visa.

Nonetheless, Foreign Affairs offices in several countries, including France and Canada, have since updated travel advisories to confirm the suspension of visa-on-arrival services from January 2025.

While this directive has not been officially confirmed by Tanzanian channels, it aligns with the country’s broader goal of modernizing immigration procedures.

The e-Visa: The New Standard for Tanzania Entry

Starting 30 January 2025, travelers must apply for an e-Visa in advance via the official Tanzanian government portal: visa.immigration.go.tz or through a recognized visa agency such as Visamundi. This digital transition aims to streamline entry processing and reduce wait times at the country’s airports.

The e-Visa offers several advantages:

• Faster application processing

• Reduced queuing at entry points

• Improved management of tourist flows by authorities

• Enhanced security in immigration procedures

However, the change may impact spontaneous travel and last-minute trips, previously facilitated by the option to obtain a visa on arrival.

Zanzibar: Travel Insurance Now Mandatory

In addition to these changes, travelers should note that Zanzibar, Tanzania’s semi-autonomous archipelago, has introduced a new requirement. Travel insurance is now compulsory for all visitors to the island. This measure ensures travelers are covered for health issues or other emergencies during their stay and is available through: https://visitzanzibar.go.tz/