Tanzania Visa on Arrival Process: Complete Guide for Travelers

Tanzania is a spectacular travel destination, famous for its vast wilderness, wildlife safaris, Mount Kilimanjaro, and the idyllic beaches of Zanzibar. For many travelers, the process of obtaining a visa can be confusing and daunting. However, Tanzania offers a convenient Visa on Arrival (VoA) facility to most visitors, allowing them to get their travel documents upon landing at the country’s international airports or border posts.

This detailed blog will walk you through everything you need to know about the Tanzania Visa on Arrival process—from eligibility and required documents to costs, application tips, and important rules to ensure your trip starts smoothly.

What Is Tanzania Visa on Arrival?

A Visa on Arrival (VoA) is a type of visa issued to travelers at the point of entry into Tanzania. Instead of applying for a visa in advance at an embassy or consulate, eligible visitors can obtain their visa after landing at a Tanzanian international airport or crossing a land border.

This facility is designed to simplify entry formalities, especially for tourists, business travelers, and short-term visitors, enabling last-minute travel plans without extensive paperwork.

Who Is Eligible for Tanzania Visa on Arrival?

Most travelers from countries outside Tanzania are eligible to apply for a Visa on Arrival. This includes visitors arriving from:

• United States

• United Kingdom

• Canada

• Australia

• European Union countries

• Many Asian countries (India, China, Japan, South Korea, etc.)

• Most African countries (except some regional restrictions)

However, it is always wise to check the latest updates from the Tanzanian embassy or official immigration websites since some nationalities may require pre-approval or a visa before travel.

Where Can You Get Tanzania Visa on Arrival?

You can obtain a Tanzania Visa on Arrival at the following entry points:

International Airports

• Julius Nyerere International Airport (Dar es Salaam)

• Kilimanjaro International Airport (Arusha)

• Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (Zanzibar)

Land Border Posts

• Namanga (Kenya-Tanzania border)

• Tunduma (Zambia-Tanzania border)

• Horohoro (Rwanda-Tanzania border)

• Other official border crossings

Documents Required for Tanzania Visa on Arrival

To ensure a smooth Visa on Arrival process, prepare the following documents in advance:

• Passport: Must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay.

• Return or Onward Ticket: Proof of onward travel is often requested.

• Visa Fee Payment: The visa fee is payable in cash (USD preferred) or sometimes by credit card.

• Completed Visa Application Form: Usually available at the visa counter or online in some cases.

• Proof of Accommodation: Hotel bookings or safari itinerary.

• Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate: Required for travelers coming from yellow fever endemic countries.

• Photographs: Some entry points may request passport-sized photos (though often not mandatory).

• Travel Insurance (optional but recommended).

Step-by-Step Guide to Tanzania Visa on Arrival Process

1. Arrival and Immigration Queue

Upon landing or arriving at the border, proceed to the immigration area. There will be separate queues for:

• Citizens of East African Community (EAC) countries

• Passport holders eligible for visa on arrival

• Holders of eVisas (if applicable)

2. Collect Visa Application Form

In most cases, visa application forms are available at the immigration desks. Fill the form with accurate details:

• Full name

• Passport number

• Purpose of visit (tourism, business, etc.)

• Duration of stay

• Contact details

3. Submit Documents and Pay Visa Fee

Hand over your passport, completed form, and required documents to the immigration officer. Pay the visa fee, typically:

• $50 USD for single-entry visa valid for up to 90 days (subject to change)

Payment is usually accepted in cash (USD preferred) but some points accept credit/debit cards. It’s best to carry cash to avoid delays.

4. Biometric Data Collection

At some ports, you will be asked to provide biometric data such as fingerprints and a digital photo.

5. Visa Approval and Passport Stamping

Once your application is processed, the visa sticker or stamp will be placed in your passport. Keep your visa safe throughout your visit.

6. Proceed to Baggage Claim and Customs

After immigration, collect your luggage and proceed through customs.

Tanzania eVisa Alternative

Besides Visa on Arrival, Tanzania also offers an eVisa system, allowing travelers to apply online before departure. The eVisa offers advantages such as:

• Quicker immigration clearance on arrival

• Ability to apply from anywhere before travel

• Secure online payment of visa fees

You can apply on the official Tanzania eVisa portal: https://eservices.immigration.go.tz/visa/

However, the Visa on Arrival option remains popular for travelers making last-minute plans.

Visa Fees and Payment Details

Visa fees may vary based on nationality, length of stay, and type of visa. Common charges include:

• Single Entry Visa: $50 USD (valid 90 days)

• Multiple Entry Visa: $100 USD (valid 1 year)

• East African Tourist Visa (covers Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda): $100 USD (valid 90 days, multiple entries)

Fees must be paid in USD or Tanzanian Shillings at the port of entry. It is wise to carry exact amounts in cash to avoid exchange problems or delays.

Tips for a Smooth Tanzania Visa on Arrival Experience

• Carry Exact Visa Fee in Cash: USD bills should be recent and not torn.

• Have All Documents Ready: Passport, return ticket, accommodation proof, vaccination certificates.

• Arrive Early: Immigration queues can be long during peak tourist seasons.

• Fill Forms Neatly and Accurately: Mistakes can cause delays.

• Use Official Visa Counters: Avoid touts or unofficial agents.

• Check Latest Regulations: Visa policies can change; consult official sources before travel.

• Consider Applying for eVisa: To save time on arrival and avoid long queues.

• Be Polite and Patient: Immigration officers may have high workloads.

Common Questions About Tanzania Visa on Arrival

Can I get a visa on arrival if I’m traveling by land border?

Yes. Visa on Arrival is available at designated land border posts like Namanga and Tunduma. However, some borders may have limited processing hours, so check in advance.

How long does the visa processing take on arrival?

Processing time can vary from 15 minutes to over an hour depending on queue lengths and the port of entry.

Can I pay the visa fee with a credit card?

Some airports and major borders accept card payments, but it’s safer to carry cash USD.

Is the Visa on Arrival valid for Zanzibar?

Yes. Zanzibar is part of Tanzania, so a single-entry visa covers both mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar.

Can I extend my Tanzania visa?

Yes, you can apply to extend your visa at the Tanzanian Immigration Headquarters in Dar es Salaam or regional offices before your visa expires.

Important Things to Remember

• Keep your visa stamped passport with you at all times during your visit.

• Tanzania has strict rules about working or volunteering on a tourist visa.

• Always declare currency and valuables upon arrival to avoid legal issues.

• Follow Tanzania’s immigration and customs regulations to ensure hassle-free entry and exit.

• Have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and unexpected trip changes.

The Tanzania Visa on Arrival process is designed to facilitate hassle-free entry for millions of tourists and business travelers every year. Understanding the requirements, fees, and procedures will help you avoid surprises and start your African adventure with ease.

Whether you’re visiting Tanzania for a safari, a beach holiday, or cultural exploration, having your visa on arrival ready means one less thing to worry about—allowing you to focus on the incredible experiences ahead.