Do You Need a Visa for Tanzania?
Most international visitors need a visa to enter Tanzania. The good news: the process is straightforward, and for most nationalities, you can obtain your visa either online (e-visa) before departure or on arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR), or Zanzibar Airport.
Tanzania E-Visa (Recommended)
The e-visa is the fastest and most reliable way to enter Tanzania. Apply at least 2 weeks before your travel date.
- Cost: $50 USD (single entry, 90 days)
- Processing time: 3–10 business days (apply early)
- Validity: 90 days from date of entry
- Application: Complete online via Tanzania Immigration's official e-visa portal
E-Visa Application Requirements
- Valid passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your entry date with at least 2 blank pages
- Passport-size photo: Digital copy, white background
- Return flight booking: Confirmation of onward/return travel
- Accommodation details: Hotel or safari operator booking confirmation
- Payment: Credit or debit card for the $50 fee
Visa on Arrival
Tanzania also offers visa on arrival at major airports and border crossings. However, we recommend the e-visa because:
- Arrival queues can be long, especially when multiple international flights land simultaneously
- E-visa holders use a separate, faster immigration line
- Occasional system outages at arrival counters can cause delays
Cost for visa on arrival: $50 USD (same as e-visa). Must be paid in US dollars cash — bring clean, undamaged bills dated 2006 or later.
Visa-Exempt Countries
Citizens of some countries do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days, including: most East African Community nations (Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan), South Africa, and some Commonwealth countries. Check with your nearest Tanzanian embassy for the current exempt list.
Yellow Fever Certificate
Tanzania requires a yellow fever vaccination certificate if you are arriving from (or transiting through) a yellow fever endemic country. This is strictly enforced — you can be denied entry without it.
- Required if arriving from: Kenya (including Nairobi transit), Ethiopia, Uganda, Rwanda, and many West/Central African countries
- Not required if arriving directly from: Europe, North America, Middle East, Asia (with no African transit)
- Get vaccinated at least 10 days before travel — the certificate only becomes valid after this period
Passport Requirements
- Validity: At least 6 months beyond entry date
- Blank pages: At least 2 blank visa pages
- Condition: No significant damage, torn pages, or water damage
Entry for Safari Travelers
If you're arriving in Tanzania specifically for a safari with a tour operator, your operator's booking confirmation serves as proof of accommodation and itinerary for the visa application. At Great Pelican Safaris, we provide all clients with official confirmation documents formatted for visa applications.
Most safari travelers arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) — the gateway to the northern safari circuit including Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Tarangire.
Multiple Entry and Transit
If your itinerary includes a side trip to Kenya (e.g., crossing to Masai Mara) and returning to Tanzania, you'll need a multiple-entry visa ($100) or an East Africa Tourist Visa ($100) which covers Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda.
The East Africa Tourist Visa is excellent value if you're visiting multiple countries — apply through whichever country you enter first.
Start Your Safari Journey
Visa sorted? Let's plan the rest. Request your free Tanzania safari quote — our team handles everything from itinerary design to pre-departure documentation so you can focus on the excitement of your upcoming adventure.
