Tanzania Entry Requirements: Everything You Need to Know
Passport Validity and Entry Rules
To visit Tanzania, travelers must hold a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining from the date of entry. Your passport should also have at least one or two blank pages for visa stamps. Without this, you may be denied boarding or entry. Immigration officers at the airport or border will carefully check these details before granting access into the country.
Visa Requirements and Application Process
Most travelers require a visa to enter Tanzania. Tourist visas are typically valid for up to 90 days and can be obtained in three main ways: applying online through the official e-visa system, arranging one through a Tanzanian embassy or consulate, or purchasing one on arrival at major entry points such as Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro International Airport, and Zanzibar. The online e-visa is often preferred, as it allows smoother entry and avoids potential delays at the border. Citizens of a few countries are visa-exempt, while others must secure their visa in advance, so it’s important to check your nationality’s specific requirements before traveling.
East Africa Tourist Visa Option
For those planning to combine Tanzania with safaris or travel in Uganda and Kenya, the East Africa Tourist Visa can be an excellent choice. This single visa allows multiple entries across the three countries for up to 90 days, simplifying logistics for regional exploration. However, it must be obtained from the country of first entry, so plan accordingly if Tanzania is not your starting point.
Health and Vaccination Requirements
Health requirements are taken seriously at Tanzanian borders. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for travelers arriving from, or transiting through, countries where the disease is present. Even short stopovers in such regions can trigger this requirement. While not compulsory, vaccines for hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and routine immunizations are highly recommended. Malaria is also present in many areas of Tanzania, so visitors should consult a travel clinic about appropriate prophylaxis, insect repellents, and protective clothing.
Customs and Currency Regulations
Visitors may bring in personal items for their stay without duty charges, but restrictions apply to items like drones, which often require special permits. The Tanzanian shilling is the local currency, though US dollars are widely accepted in hotels, lodges, and for park fees. Make sure to carry crisp, recent US bills issued after 2006, as older notes are frequently rejected. Credit cards are accepted in larger establishments, but remote areas often require cash.
Entry Points and Border Crossings
Tanzania has multiple international airports, including Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar, and Arusha, which serve as main gateways. Land crossings from Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Zambia, and Malawi are also common for safari travelers. Ensure that your documents are in order, as immigration checks at land borders can sometimes be more detailed than at airports.
Staying Compliant During Your Visit
Once inside Tanzania, travelers must respect visa validity and ensure they do not overstay. Extensions may be possible through the immigration office but should be arranged before the visa expires. Always carry identification or a copy of your passport, especially when traveling between regions. Travelers who plan to volunteer, work, or conduct research must apply for appropriate permits, as a standard tourist visa does not cover these activities.
Preparing for Tanzania means organizing paperwork and health documentation well in advance. Having your visa pre-approved online, carrying a valid yellow fever certificate if applicable, and ensuring your passport meets requirements can save time at the border. Staying informed about local laws and regulations also ensures a smooth, stress-free entry. With the formalities handled, you can focus on the adventure ahead—whether that’s tracking wildlife in the Serengeti, relaxing on Zanzibar’s beaches, or climbing the iconic Mount Kilimanjaro.