Everything You Must Know About Tanzania e-Visa Requirements

Dreaming of sweeping plains, majestic wildlife and island beaches? One of the most exciting destinations you may have on your travel map is Tanzania. Before you pack your safari hat or your swimsuit for Zanzibar, it’s important to get the administrative side right. In this guide I’m going to walk you through the Tanzania eVisa so you feel fully confident before you step onto East African soil. Whether you’re planning to trek up Mount Kilimanjaro, cruise the Indian Ocean shoreline or explore the Serengeti plains, knowing how the Tanzania e-visa system works will save you time, stress and confusion.

What Is the Tanzania eVisa and Why It Matters

The Tanzania eVisa is an electronic authorization that grants entry for tourism, business, or transit. Instead of applying through traditional paperwork channels, travelers can now complete the entire process online. This makes travel to Tanzania more efficient and accessible for visitors worldwide. The eVisa is linked electronically to your passport, simplifying verification when you arrive at Tanzanian entry points.

How to get a Tanzania e-visa

Let’s talk step-by-step. To apply for Tanzania eVisa is simpler than it may sound—and doing it beforehand means you skip many of the last-minute headaches.

Step 1: Prepare your travel documents

You’ll need a valid passport (with at least six months remaining validity) and at least one blank page for entry stamps. Have your onward or return travel plan handy—many arrivals will want to see proof of where you’re heading after your Tanzanian adventure.

Step 2: Decide the right type of visa

The types you can choose from will depend on how long you plan to stay and whether you want single or multiple entries. We’ll cover the “Tanzania eVisa types” later in more detail.

Step 3: Fill in the application form

You will need to complete your application online. The system lets you upload your passport photo, enter your travel dates and choose your entry point. Once approved you’ll receive a pdf visa-granting notice—print it out and carry it with you.

Step 4: Wait for approval

The approval period is typically around 7–10 business days for most applicants. The earlier you apply (but within the valid window) the more peace of mind you’ll have.

Step 5: On arrival

Keep the printed visa-approval notice, your passport and proof of onward travel easily accessible. At the border you may also be asked for your accommodation details, so having a booking confirmation or similar is wise.

What do you need for a Tanzania eVisa?

Now let’s zero in on the essentials. When thinking about the document requirements for e-Visa Tanzania, here’s everything you’ll want to check off your list.

Passport validity and blank page

Your passport must have at least six months validity beyond your date of arrival, and at least one blank page for stamping.

Travel itinerary

You should have a plausible travel plan—entry date, intended accommodation or destination, and ideally proof of an onward or return ticket. This is evaluated at arrival.

Previous travel record and personal details

The form will ask for personal details (name, date of birth, nationality, passport number) and may also ask about your travel history. Be accurate and consistent.

Visa choice and entry point

Choose the appropriate visa category (tourist, transit, business, etc.). Also note that certain entry points are approved for e-visa entry (e.g., major airports).

Proof of funds / budget

While you don’t necessarily pay a physical deposit, you need to be able to show you can support your stay—and an officer may ask for evidence.

Health/vaccination considerations

One of the most common questions: do you need a yellow fever vaccination? Good news: only if you are travelling from or via a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. Indians travelling directly to Tanzania typically don’t need it.

Print a copy

Once your e-visa is approved, make sure to print the pdf document and carry it with your travel papers. At airports or border posts digital alone may lead to delays.

Do I need to print a Tanzania e-Visa?

Yes—printing is strongly advisable. While the visa is electronically issued, you’ll be asked to present a hard copy of the approval at the port of entry. Some travellers report delays when they relied just on a phone screen So: keep the printed pdf, and carry it together with your passport, travel plan and accommodation details.

Do Indians need an e-visa for Tanzania?

Yes. Indian citizens planning a visit to Tanzania generally require a visa in advance or on arrival, depending on the entry point and travel purpose. The online system supports Indian applicants.

It means: if you’re travelling from India, prepare your application early, ensure you meet the “Requirements for an e-Visa Tanzania”, and give yourself enough time to be approved.

How much does a Tanzania evisa cost for Indians?

While I don’t list the exact figures here (since you requested avoiding “costs” language), to plan your budget you should expect that the fee for Indian citizens is higher than for many other nationalities—both for single and multiple entry options.

Tip: Check the latest fee on the application system prior to payment, as rates can change.

Do Indians need a yellow fever vaccine for Tanzania?

In most cases, no. If you travel from India directly to Tanzania (or via non-risk countries) you are not required to show a yellow fever vaccination certificate.

However – if your route passes through or you transit for a long time (over 12 hours) in a yellow fever-endemic country, then yes you may need the vaccination or certificate.

What happens if you travel to Tanzania without the yellow fever vaccine?

If you arrive from or via a country deemed at risk for yellow fever and you do not have the vaccination certificate:

• You may be required to receive vaccination upon arrival; or
• Your entry could be delayed or refused; or you might be placed under health observation for up to 10 days.
• In short: it’s a hassle you’ll want to avoid. If in doubt, get the shot or ensure your route avoids high-risk transit.

What is the difference between a Tanzania Visa and a Tanzania e-Visa?

Great question. Here’s how the two compare:

• Traditional Tanzania Visa (on arrival or at a diplomatic mission): You complete paperwork at the airport, pay the fee at entry, and then receive the stamp. This method may involve longer queues and potential last-minute complications.
• Tanzania e-Visa: You apply before your journey, get approval electronically, print the pdf and arrive with everything in place. This tends to be smoother and faster.

So if you have the option, going with the e-Visa is generally the simpler route—especially for first-time travelers.

Is it better to get a Tanzania e-Visa on arrival?

The short answer: getting the e-Visa in advance is the better option for most travellers. Why?

• You avoid potential delays at the airport—queues, technical issues or lack of clarity.
• You arrive with your papers sorted, giving you more freedom upon arrival.
• If something goes wrong last minute (application not approved, system error) you may be forced to pay more or wait.

That said—if you’re confident and travelling from a country where arrival visas are common and time is tight—you can get a visa on arrival. But if you have the choice and time, go for the pre-approved route.

Can I get a Tanzania e-Visa on arrival at Kilimanjaro airport?

You can enter via major airports including Kilimanjaro International Airport, and some land borders. However, the e-Visa approval still needs to be done in advance for the smoother option. According to some sources, arrival without prior approval may still lead to getting the visa stamped at entry—but it may involve longer waits.

If you arrive at KIA without pre-approval, you’ll want to ensure you have all the documents (passport valid, onward ticket, printed application confirmation) ready. But ideally: get the e-Visa ahead of time.

How long does a Tanzania e-Visa take to process?

The typical processing time is around 7 to 10 business days, though in many cases it may come through faster if everything is in order.

Tip: Don’t leave it to the last minute—apply at least 2–3 weeks ahead to accommodate any hiccups. Some travel advisers recommend applying up to three weeks before travel. 

What is the duration of a Tanzania e-Visa?

Here are the typical durations you’ll see:

• For many tourist uses, the visa may be valid for arrival during a specific window and allow you to stay up to 30 or 90 days depending on your nationality and entry type.
• Some multiple-entry visas may have validity up to a year, allowing stays of up to 90 days per visit.
• Whatever your type, check the exact entry-by and stay-duration in your visa approval document—these conditions are binding.

What are the latest e-Visa rules for Tanzania?

Here are updates and helpful pointers to keep you ahead of the game:

• The online e-Visa system is now well established and covers both mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar.
• The passport validity rule (minimum six months) is firmly in place.
• Health screening and vaccination rules are in effect: for example, the yellow fever certificate rule when arriving from or via high-risk zones.
• The list of approved entry points for e-visa use includes major airports and some land borders—but always verify your specific route.
• Always apply from the authorised system (rather than third-party sites) to avoid overpaying or falling victim to scams. Many travellers have warned about unreliable sites.

Tanzania e-Visa Validity

Let’s clarify validity: your visa approval will specify the date from which you can enter and the maximum stay allowed.

• Many tourist e-Visas are valid for entry within 90 days of issue.
• The stay-period may differ by nationality—so Indian travellers should check their specific approval.
• Once you enter the country, your permitted time inside begins—overstaying can lead to penalties or issues at departure.

Tanzania e-Visa Renewal/Extension

What if you fall in love with Tanzania and want to stay longer? Here’s what you should know:

• Tourist visas (including the e-Visa type) typically do not allow unlimited extension. Some categories allow extensions, others don’t.
• If you anticipate needing a longer stay (for example, for work, study or volunteering), apply for the correct visa category up front.
• Always check your stamp or endorsement in your passport for any conditions like “not extendable”.
• If you overstay, you may face fines, detention or future entry bans—so plan your departure or extension well in advance.

Useful Travel Advice for a Smooth Experience

Here are some practical tips I’ve gathered from travellers and blogs that will help make your trip smoother:

• Apply for the Tanzania e-visa early—2–3 weeks ahead is a safe window.
• Print multiple copies of your approval document and keep one with your hand luggage.
• Have your accommodation confirmation and onward/return ticket ready to show if requested.
• Double-check your passport expiry date: ensure at least six months validity from your planned arrival.
• If you have a layover or transit through multiple countries, be aware of health/vaccination implications such as yellow fever certificate requirements.
• Keep digital backups of your travel documents (visa, passport scan, health certificates) in your email or cloud storage.
• On arrival, have some local currency or payment method ready for airport transfer, arrivals formalities and buffer expenses.
• Respect the permitted stay period. Overstaying is not worth the risk.
• If you’re also visiting Zanzibar, remember it is part of Tanzania but some arrival processes may differ—always check updates.
• For health: carry mosquito repellent, follow recommended vaccinations (even if not mandatory for your route) and travel safe in remote areas.

Conclusion: Smooth Travel Experience Awaits You

Planning ahead is the key to enjoying your safari, beach escape or island hopping in Tanzania without unnecessary stress. By sorting out your Tanzania e-visa, ticking off all the “Requirements for an e-Visa Tanzania”, and checking your travel and health preparations, you’ll arrive fully ready to explore. The wild landscapes of Serengeti, the vibrant culture of Dar es Salaam, the marine magic of Zanzibar—they’re waiting. Travel smart, pack well, apply early—and your Tanzanian adventure will be off to a smooth start.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Traveling to Tanzania

Q1: How far in advance can I apply for the Tanzania e-visa?

Apply at least a week to two weeks in advance to allow for processing, though applying earlier (2–3 weeks) is more comfortable.

Q2: Can I arrive in Tanzania and then apply for a visa?

Yes, in many cases you can obtain a visa on arrival—but pre-approval with the e-visa system is advised for a smoother experience.

Q3: If my passport has less than six months validity, will I face issues?

Yes—your passport should have at least six months remaining validity for the e-visa process and arrival. 

Q4: If I transit through a yellow fever risk country but have no layover longer than 12 hours, do I need the vaccine?

Generally no, if your stay is under 12 hours and you did not disembark in the risk country. But always check your full travel route. 

Q5: Can I stay in Tanzania longer by extending my e-visa?

Extensions may be possible depending on the visa type—but tourist visas often have limited or no extension options. Always check the terms on your approval and plan accordingly.