Visa requirements for Tanzania depend on the passport you hold, so this is one part of the trip that should always be checked directly with Tanzania Immigration before departure.
For many travellers the process is straightforward: check whether you need a visa, apply through the official eVisa system where required, and make sure your passport and supporting documents meet the current rules.
Do you need a visa for Tanzania?
Some nationalities can enter Tanzania without a visa, while others require one before or on arrival. Tanzania Immigration maintains the official lists, so avoid relying on an old blog post or screenshot when checking your nationality.
There is also a separate referral category for certain nationalities that require approval before travelling. That process can take longer than an ordinary visa application.
Tanzania eVisa
Tanzania operates an official online visa system for travellers who require a visa.
For tourism, the standard Ordinary Visa currently costs US$50 and allows a stay of up to 90 days. US passport holders travelling for tourism are currently directed to the Multiple Visa category, which costs US$100.
Eligible travellers may also be able to obtain a visa on arrival, but Tanzania Immigration recommends using its official application system rather than unofficial third-party websites.
Passport requirements
Current Immigration guidance says visa applicants need a passport with at least six months' validity and at least one unused visa page when submitting the application.
Visitors must also be able to show a return or onward ticket on arrival.
How early should you apply?
Do not leave the application until the last moment.
The exact processing requirements depend on the visa category and nationality, particularly for travellers in the referral category. Check the current Immigration guidance before booking around an assumed approval date.
Does a Tanzania visa cover Zanzibar?
Zanzibar is part of the United Republic of Tanzania, so you do not normally obtain a separate Tanzanian tourist visa simply because your itinerary includes the islands.
That does not mean every travel requirement is identical, however. Health, insurance or other local requirements can change separately, so check current information before departure.
What else should you check?
Visa status is only one part of entry planning.
Health-entry requirements, travel documents and any rules created in response to changing public-health conditions should be checked close to departure rather than months in advance.
Meskel tip
Treat entry requirements as live information.
Check the official Tanzania Immigration website again shortly before travelling. This is one area where being slightly overcautious is better than discovering an outdated requirement at the airport.