Tanzania eVisa for India

Planning a trip to the land of Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar? Navigating visa requirements can be the most stressful part of travel, but it doesn't have to be. This comprehensive guide answers every question Indian citizens have about the Tanzania eVisa—from document checklists and fees to processing times and the best way to apply.

Here is everything you need to know about the Tanzania eVisa for India.

Are There Tanzania Visa Applications for Indian Citizens?

Yes. Indian citizens are required to have a valid visa to enter the United Republic of Tanzania. You cannot enter the country visa-free. However, the process has been modernized significantly. Indian passport holders are eligible for the Tanzania eVisa (Electronic Visa), which is the most convenient method. While a Visa on Arrival is available at select ports, the eVisa allows you to secure your entry permit online before you even board your flight, ensuring a hassle-free arrival.

What Documents Are Needed for an Indian Citizen to Apply for a Tanzania Visa?

To ensure a smooth Tanzania eVisa application process, you must have the following documents scanned and ready. Ensure all files are in PNG or JPEG format and clearly legible.

• Valid Passport: A clear scan of the bio-data page of your Indian passport. It must be valid for at least 6 months from your intended date of entry.
• Passport-Size Photo: A recent digital photograph taken against a plain white background. You should have a neutral expression (no smiling) and no glasses.
• Return Ticket: Proof of your return flight to India or an onward ticket to another destination.
• Proof of Accommodation: Only sometimes requested during upload, but you must have it on hand (Hotel booking or host letter).
• Declaration Form: In some cases, you may be asked to upload a signed declaration form, though the online form often suffices.

What Other Visa Types Are There for Tanzania Besides Tourism and Business?

While most travelers apply for Ordinary or Business visas, there are other specific categories available for Indians:

1. Transit Visa: For travelers passing through Tanzania to a third country. It is valid for a maximum of 7 days and requires an onward ticket and a visa for the final destination.
2. Student Visa: Issued to those entering for academic purposes, research, or internships.
3. Multiple Entry Visa: Designed for frequent visitors (valid for 12 months). This is often used by directors of companies registered in Tanzania or spouses of Tanzanians.

How to Apply for a Tanzania Visa from India?

The application process is entirely digital. Follow these steps:

1. Fill the Form: Complete the application with your personal details, travel dates, and host information.
2. Upload Documents: Attach your photo, passport scan, and ticket/invitation letters.
3. Make Payment: Pay the visa fee online.
4. Wait for Grant: Once approved, the "Grant Notice" will be emailed to you. Print two copies to carry with you.

What Are the Typical Processing Times for a Tanzanian eVisa?

According to the official immigration system, you have two processing options:

• Normal Processing: Takes 4 to 7 working days. This is the standard option and is sufficient if you plan ahead.
• Rush Processing: Takes 3 to 5 working days. This is useful for last-minute trips but may not always be available depending on system volume.

Recommendation: Apply at least 15 days before your travel date to account for weekends or unexpected delays.

What Are the Requirements for a Visa on Arrival in Tanzania for Indian Citizens?

If you cannot apply for an eVisa in time, you can get a Visa on Arrival (VoA) at major entry points like Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) or Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).

Requirements for VoA:

• Valid Indian passport (6 months validity).
• Completed arrival declaration card (available at the airport).
• Proof of accommodation and return ticket.
• Visa Fee in Cash: You must pay $50 USD in cash. Important: The bills must be new (printed after 2009) and in good condition. Credit card machines are often unreliable.
• Patience: Be prepared for long queues, which can take 1-2 hours during peak arrival times.

What Are the Accepted Payment Methods for the E-Visa Application?

The online system allows you to pay Tanzania Visa Fee via:

• Credit/Debit Cards: Visa and MasterCard are accepted.
• Swift Transfer: You can deposit money directly, but this takes longer to verify.

Note for Indians: Some Indian debit cards have restrictions on international transactions. Using a credit card is generally smoother.

What Proof of Sufficient Funds Is Needed for a Tanzanian Business Visa for Indian Citizens?

For a Business Visa, immigration is stricter about financial stability. You typically need to provide:

1. Invitation Letter: A formal letter from the Tanzanian host company detailing the assignment and confirming they will cover your expenses.
2. Cover Letter: A letter from your Indian employer stating your role and that they financially support your trip.
3. Bank Statement (Optional but Recommended): While not always mandatory to upload, carrying a recent bank statement is wise.
4. Work Contract: Proof of the specific assignment you are visiting to perform.

How Long Is a Tanzania Visa Valid After Issuance, and What's the Fee for Multiple-Entry Visas?

• Ordinary (Tourist) Visa: Valid for 90 days from the date of arrival. It is a single-entry visa.
• Multiple Entry Visa: Valid for 12 months (1 year), allowing stays of up to 90 days at a time.
• Fee: The cost for a Multiple Entry Visa is $100 USD (approx. ₹8,400).

What Are the Differences Between Ordinary and Business Visas for Tanzania?

Selecting the wrong type is a common mistake that leads to rejection.

• Ordinary Visa ($50): Strict use for Tourism, Holidays, Leisure, or Visiting Friends/Family. You cannot work or conduct business tasks.
• Business Visa ($250): Strict use for professional duties like auditing, fixing machinery, short-term training, or business meetings.
• Warning: If you travel for business on a tourist visa, you may be fined or forced to pay the difference upon arrival.

Which Is Better: Apply Directly for a Visa or Apply via a Travel Agency?

Travelers often wonder if they should handle the process themselves or hire an expert.

Option A: Applying Directly (Government Portal)

• Pros: Cheaper (you only pay the government fee).
• Cons: The portal can be glitchy; if you make a typo or upload a blurry photo, your visa gets rejected with no refund. Support is limited.

Option B: Applying via a Professional Travel Agency

• Pros:
• Higher Approval Rate: Agencies review your documents before submission, ensuring 98-99% success.
• 24/7 Support: You have someone to call if the system is down or you have questions.
• Error-Free: They handle the resizing of photos and document formats for you.
• Convenience: Save time and stress.
• Cons: You pay a small service fee on top of the visa cost.

Verdict: If you are an experienced traveler comfortable with digital forms, applying directly is fine. However, if this is your first time or you want peace of mind, using a reputable agency is often worth the small extra cost to avoid rejection hassles.