Whether you're en route to another destination or just making a brief stopover, the Tanzania Transit Visa
is your key to smooth and efficient travel through the country. This visa is ideal for travelers
needing to pass through Tanzania without extensive delays. Read on to discover all you need
to know about obtaining and using this convenient visa for your transit needs!
Navigating the Tanzania Transit Visa: What You Need to Know
A transit visa is a temporary permit to pass through a country, the Tanzania Visa is designed for travelers who
need a quick and smooth passage through the country. It allows you to stay within the country for a
limited time, usually just a few days while waiting for your connecting flight.
A Tanzanian transit visa specifically grants permission to travel through Tanzania en route to another
destination. Valid for up to 7 days, it lets you stay in the airport or venture out for
a short visit, depending on the visa type and layover duration.
Why is a transit visa necessary?
Travelling without the proper visa can lead to issues. Immigration officials might:
Deny entry: You might only be allowed into Tanzania if you have the correct
visa.
Impose fines: Attempting to enter without a visa could result in penalties.
Detain you: In some cases, authorities might hold you for further investigation,
causing delays.
Deport you: The most severe consequence could be being sent back to your home
country at your own expense.
Remember: Obtaining a transit visa is a simple process that avoids any
unnecessary hassle at immigration. It lets you focus on the exciting part - reaching your final
destination!
Key Features of the Tanzania Transit Visa:
Purpose: A Transit Visa is specifically designed for travellers passing through
Tanzania. It is not intended for tourism or sightseeing activities.
Duration: It is valid for a maximum of 7 days from the date of
issuance and cannot be extended.
Application process: Online apply through the application page.
On arrival: Apply at the visa issuance section upon arrival at a Tanzanian airport
or seaport.
Processing time:Usually finished in a few business days, though the
time frame may vary depending on the kind of application. In some instances, faster processing may be
offered.
Restrictions: This visa is for travellers passing through Tanzania, not for those
seeking to work or conduct business. It allows a brief stopover, not an extended stay for professional
activities.
Entry: This visa is for a single entry only, allowing
one-time transit to your final destination in Tanzania. No re-entry permitted.
How the e-Visa System Makes Visiting Tanzania Easier?
Simplified Visa Process: Tanzania has recently simplified its visa application
process for foreign nationals.
Introduction of e-Visa: In 2018, Tanzania introduced an
electronic visa (e-Visa) system for eligible citizens to apply online.
Streamlined Application: The e-Visa system has made obtaining a visa easier and more
convenient for visitors.
Secure Online Platform: The e-Visa platform allows applicants to submit their visa
applications electronically and securely.
Electronic Linking: Once approved, the e-Visa is linked to the applicant’s
passport electronically.
Convenience: Applicants can apply for a Tanzania visa from their home or office.
Time and Cost Savings: The e-Visa system saves applicants time and money, making the
process more efficient and cost-effective.
User-Friendly Process: The online application is easy to complete, guiding
applicants step-by-step to reduce errors.
Real-Time Tracking: Applicants can track their application status online.
Eligibility Requirements: Applicants must meet specific requirements, including
having a valid passport, email address, and means of payment for the visa fee. Requirements may vary
based on the country of origin and purpose of the visit.
Tanzania Transit Visa Eligibility and Requirements
The Tanzanian transit visa offers a convenient way to enter and exit the country, but eligibility and
requirements vary. Here's a quick guide to help you determine if you qualify.
Valid Passport: To pass through Tanzania, your passport must have at least one blank
page available for the visa stamp and at least 6 months remaining on it.
Visa Application Form: Should you opt for an e-Visa, completion of a visa
application form is necessary. The form is available at the website's outset.
Visa Fee:The fees for a Tanzanian e-visa depend on the visa type and urgency. For
accurate fee information, refer to theTanzania visa fee page.
Proof of Onward Travel: An entry visa or onward ticket to your destination country.
Important Notes:
Make sure you have a valid visa for your final destination.
Make sure you have enough money to cover your expenses while you are in Tanzania.
Be aware of your visa's validity period and ensure you stay within your welcome.
Tanzania Transit Visa Processing Time Explained (Normal, Rush, and Super Rush e-Visas)
Standard Processing: Budget-friendly and efficient, with approvals typically within
10 - 12 Working Days. Perfect for those who planned ahead.
Rush Processing: Need your visa quicker? Rush processing gets your e-Visa approved
faster (8 - 10 Working Days) - ideal for those on a tighter schedule. (requires an
additional fee)
Super Rush Processing: In a visa crunch? Super rush processing delivers your e-Visa
in as little as 6 - 8 Working Days - best for last-minute travel plans. (requires an additional
fee)
Get Your Transit Visa Online in Just 3 Easy Steps!
Pay with a credit or debit card, and get an email confirming your payment.
3
step
Once approved, your e-Visa will be emailed to you. Print it for presentation upon arrival.
Renewal of Tanzania Transit Visa
The Tanzania Transit Visa permits a brief stay of up to 7 days and cannot be extended or
renewed once issued. Travellers with plans requiring a longer duration in Tanzania must consider
alternative visa options like:
Tanzania Tourist Visa: Suitable for leisure or sightseeing.
Tanzania Business Visa: Ideal for engaging in business activities.
Travel During COVID-19
Tanzania in 2024: No mandatory COVID-19 tests or vaccines for visas, but expect some
checks at airports. Airlines and transit countries may have their own requirements.
FAQ’s
If your layover is long or you plan to leave the airport, you might need a Tanzania transit visa.
Indeed. Any entry point in Tanzania can provide travellers with a transit visa, but it is strongly
advised that they obtain the visa before arrival.
No, Tanzania transit visas are not visa-free. You will need a transit visa if you meet the
abovementioned criteria (short layover or plan to leave the airport).
A Tanzanian transit visa allows you to leave the airport during your layover in Tanzania. This is
different from a situation where you are simply in transit and never leave the secure area of the
airport, which typically wouldn't require a visa.
If your passport is lost or stolen and you have a valid Tanzanian Transit Visa, promptly report the
incident to your country's embassy or consulate in Tanzania and to the local police. You'll likely
need to apply for a new passport.
Disclaimer: Although this information was last updated in June 2024, we
recommend verifying with the appropriate agencies, embassies, and airlines to ensure complete accuracy
regarding your travel plans.