How do I obtain an e-Visa for Tanzania or Zanzibar?

Tanzania is a popular destination for its breathtaking scenery, incredible wildlife and heavenly Zanzibar beaches. Travelers wishing to visit this East African country need to obtain an e-Visa. In this article, we'll explain the steps you need to take to obtain your e-Visa to facilitate your trip to Tanzania or Zanzibar.

What is an e-Visa?

An e-Visa is an electronic visa issued by the authorities of the country concerned. It enables travelers to enter the country without having to visit an embassy or consulate. The application and issuance process is entirely online, making administrative formalities much easier for travelers.

Advantages of e-Visa

The e-Visa offers several advantages:

  • Simplicity: All procedures can be carried out online.
  • Speed: Processing is generally faster than for traditional visas.
  • Security: Personal information is secure, reducing the risk of fraud.

e-Visa application for Tanzania and Zanzibar

To obtain an e-Visa for Tanzania or Zanzibar, simply follow these steps:

  1. Create an account on the Tanzanian government's official e-Visa website or go through a recognized visa agency
  2. Fill in the online form with your personal information and travel details.
  3. Upload the required documents, such as a digital copy of your passport and a recent passport photo.
  4. Pay your visa fees by credit card or any other method.
  5. Wait for the Tanzanian authorities to reply to your application. This can take from a few days to several weeks, depending on the case.
  6. Print out your e-Visa after approval and present it to border control officials on arrival in Tanzania or Zanzibar.

Documents required to apply for an e-Visa

Here is the list of documents generally required for an e-Visa application for Tanzania and Zanzibar:

  • Passport valid for at least six months after your planned departure date from Tanzania.
  • Recent passport photo that meets international standards.
  • Proof of reservation of accommodation in Tanzania or Zanzibar (hotel, vacation rental, etc.).
  • Proof of travel: round-trip plane ticket or proof of reservation.

man riding on gray car during sunset

Type of electronic visa for Tanzania and Zanzibar

There are several types of e-Visa for Tanzania and Zanzibar, depending on the purpose of your stay:

  • e-Visa tourism: For tourism-related trips, such as safaris, cultural visits or beach vacations.
  • Business e-Visa: For travelers to Tanzania for work, conferences or business meetings.

Validity and entry conditions

The period of validity and entry requirements vary according to the type of e-Visa obtained:

  • e-Tourist Visa: Generally valid for 90 days from the date of issue, for a stay of up to 90 days with a single entry(duration at the discretion of immigration officials).
  • e-Business Visa: Valid for stays of up to 90 days, with the possibility of requesting extensions on site.

Eligible nationalities and other useful information

Nationals of most countries are eligible for e-Visa for Tanzania and Zanzibar. However, it is advisable to check the specific requirements for your nationality with the Tanzanian authorities.

Finally, don't forget that the e-Visa does not automatically guarantee entry into Tanzania or Zanzibar. Border control officials may refuse entry at their discretion if entry conditions are not met, or in the event of special circumstances.

Tanzania e-Visa application form