Tanzania eVisa for Switzerland

From the snow-capped peaks of the Alps to the "Roof of Africa," the journey from Switzerland to Tanzania is a dream for many. Whether you are trading the Matterhorn for Kilimanjaro or Lake Geneva for the turquoise beaches of Zanzibar, Tanzania offers an unforgettable escape.

However, before you can embark on your safari adventure, you need to sort out your travel documentation. This guide covers everything you need to know about the Tanzania eVisa for Switzerland, structured to answer your most pressing questions.

Do Swiss need a visa for Tanzania?

Yes. Swiss citizens are required to have a valid visa to enter the United Republic of Tanzania.

Switzerland is not on the list of visa-exempt countries. Whether you are traveling for tourism, leisure, or a short business trip, you must obtain a valid travel authorization. The most convenient option for Swiss passport holders is the Ordinary (Single Entry) Visa, which allows for a stay of up to 90 days. While visas on arrival are available at some entry points, applying for an eVisa in advance is highly recommended to ensure a smooth entry and avoid long queues at the airport.

How to apply for a Tanzania visa from Switzerland?

Swiss citizens have two primary ways to apply for a visa:

1. Online (eVisa): This is the most recommended method. You can apply from the comfort of your home in Zurich, Geneva, or Lugano.

• Fill out the application form with your personal and travel details.
• Upload the required documents (passport scan, photo, ticket).
• Pay the visa fee.
• Receive your grant letter via email.

1. In-Person (Embassy): You can apply via the Permanent Mission of the United Republic of Tanzania to the United Nations in Geneva. However, this process often requires physical visits or mailing your passport, which takes longer than the online system.

What documents are needed for a Tanzanian eVisa for Swiss citizens?

To successfully apply for Tanzania eVisa online, you will need to upload digital copies of specific documents. Ensure your scans are clear and meet the file size requirements (usually under 300KB).

The standard checklist for Swiss applicants includes:

• Valid Swiss Passport: A clear scan of the biographical data page.
• Recent Digital Photograph: A passport-style photo taken within the last 6 months. It must have a white background and you should not be wearing glasses/hats.
• Return/Onward Ticket: Proof that you have a flight booked to leave Tanzania, either returning to Switzerland or continuing to another destination.
• Proof of Accommodation: While not always mandatory for the initial upload, you may be asked to declare where you are staying (hotel name or host address).

For Business Visas, you will additionally need an invitation letter from the host company in Tanzania and their business registration documents.

What is the standard processing time for a Tanzania eVisa?

The official processing time for Tanzania eVisa is typically 4 to 7 working days.

However, processing times can fluctuate depending on the volume of applications, especially during peak travel seasons (July–August and December).

• Our Recommendation: Swiss travelers should apply at least 3 to 4 weeks before their intended departure date.
• Urgent Travel: If you are in a rush, some third-party agents offer expedited services (within 3-5 days), but applying early is always the safest strategy to avoid stress.

What are the requirements for a passport to be considered valid for entry into Tanzania?

Tanzanian immigration is strict regarding passport validity. For your Swiss passport to be accepted:

• It must have at least 6 months of validity remaining from the date you arrive in Tanzania.
• It must have at least one blank page available for immigration stamps.

Crucial: If your passport is set to expire within 6 months of your trip, you must renew it at your local cantonal passport office in Switzerland before applying for your visa.

What are some popular tourist activities and attractions in Tanzania?

Once your visa is approved, you can look forward to world-class experiences:

• Serengeti National Park: Witness the Great Migration, one of the most spectacular wildlife events on the planet.
• Mount Kilimanjaro: A favorite challenge for Swiss hikers, offering a high-altitude trek that rivals the Alps (but without the technical climbing).
• Zanzibar (Unguja): Explore the spice markets of Stone Town (a UNESCO World Heritage site) and relax on the pristine beaches of Nungwi.
• Ngorongoro Crater: The world's largest inactive volcanic caldera, hosting the highest density of lions in Africa.
• Selous Game Reserve: For a more off-the-beaten-path safari experience.

What other travel documents are needed for Tanzanian entry besides a visa?

Beyond your passport and printed eVisa grant letter, you should carry:

1. Printed Return Flight Itinerary: Immigration officers often ask to see proof of your departure.
2. Proof of Accommodation: A hotel booking confirmation or an invitation letter from a host.
3. Yellow Fever Certificate: Only if required (see vaccination section below).
4. Travel Insurance: While not strictly mandatory for entry on the mainland, comprehensive travel insurance (covering medical evacuation) is highly recommended. Note: Mandatory insurance is required for entering Zanzibar.

Are there recommended vaccinations for travel to Tanzania from Switzerland?

Yellow Fever:

• Direct Travel: If you fly directly from Switzerland (e.g., Zurich to Kilimanjaro via Amsterdam/Doha), a Yellow Fever vaccination is generally not required.
• Transit Rule: If you transit for more than 12 hours in a country with a risk of Yellow Fever (such as Kenya or Ethiopia), you will need to present a valid vaccination certificate upon arrival.

Other Recommendations: Consult your doctor or a tropical medicine specialist in Switzerland (e.g., Swiss TPH) 4-6 weeks before travel. Recommended vaccinations often include:

• Hepatitis A and B
• Typhoid
• Tetanus/Diphtheria/Polio (boosters)
• Malaria Prophylaxis: Malaria is present in most of Tanzania. Anti-malarial medication is highly recommended.

What are some travel restrictions or advisories for entering Switzerland from Tanzania?

When returning to Switzerland from Tanzania, be aware of the following:

• Customs/Import Restrictions: Switzerland has strict rules on importing animal products. You cannot bring meat, milk, or dairy products from Tanzania.
• Souvenirs: Be extremely careful with animal products. Bringing ivory, tortoise shell, or certain skins is illegal under CITES regulations and can result in heavy fines at Swiss customs.
• Currency: If you are carrying more than CHF 10,000 in cash, you may be questioned about its origin.
• Health: There are currently no COVID-19 entry restrictions for entering Switzerland, but always check the latest Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) guidelines before flying home.

How do I call for eVisa? Agent

The official government portal can sometimes be difficult to navigate, with occasional technical glitches or confusing terminology. If you need assistance, want someone to review your documents, or require status updates, using a specialized agent is often the best solution.

Recommended Support: You can get professional assistance at evisa-tanzania.it.com.

Why use an agent?

• 24/7 Support: Get help anytime, unlike standard office hours which might be in a different time zone.
• Error Prevention: Agents review your scans to ensure they aren't rejected for being blurry or the wrong format.
• Status Tracking: They monitor your application and keep you informed, so you don't have to worry about checking the portal constantly.

Disclaimer: Visa policies can change. Always verify the latest requirements with official sources before traveling.