Tanzania Visa for Canadian Citizens 2026 — Requirements & How to Apply

Do Canadian Citizens Need a Visa for Tanzania?

Yes, Canadian citizens require a visa to enter Tanzania. You have two main options: apply online for an eVisa (recommended) or obtain a visa on arrival at the airport or border. For tourism purposes, Canadian nationals apply for an Ordinary Visa (Single Entry), which costs 50 USD and permits a 90-day stay. The eVisa is the faster and more convenient option, with most applications approved within 10 business days.

Visa Types for Canadian Citizens

Tanzania offers several visa categories. Canadian travellers planning a safari or holiday will apply for one of these:

Visa Type	Purpose	Fee (USD)	Validity	Entries
Ordinary Visa	Tourism, visiting, leisure, health treatment	50	90 days	Single
Multiple Entry Visa	Multiple visits within validity period	100	12 months	Multiple
Business Visa	Business meetings, conferences	250	Varies	Single/Multiple
Transit Visa	Passing through Tanzania to another country	30	7 days	Single
Student Visa	Full-time study (single 3 months)	50	3 months	Single

Most Canadian tourists apply for the Ordinary Visa. If you plan to leave and re-enter Tanzania during your trip, consider the Multiple Entry Visa (100 USD) instead.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a Tanzania eVisa Online

The official Tanzania eVisa portal (eservices.immigration.go.tz) is the recommended method for Canadian citizens. The process is straightforward and can be completed from home in under 15 minutes.

Step 1: Gather Your Documents

Before starting your application, ensure you have the following ready:

• Valid passport — must have at least 6 months validity beyond your intended departure date from Tanzania
• Passport biographical page scan — a clear color scan of your data page (not a photo)
• Passport-size photograph — color, 45mm × 35mm, JPG or JPEG format, max 500KB
• Return or onward flight ticket — proof of departure from Tanzania
• Proof of accommodation — hotel booking, lodge reservation, or invitation letter
• Email address — to receive your approved eVisa

Step 2: Visit the Official Portal & Create an Account

Go to eservices.immigration.go.tz and click "Visa Application." You'll be asked to create an account or log in. Fill in your personal details, passport information, and travel dates. Save your login credentials — you'll need them to track your application status.

Step 3: Complete the Application Form

Select your visa type: Ordinary Visa (Single Entry). Provide:

• Full legal name as it appears on your passport
• Passport number and issue/expiry dates
• Date of birth and place of birth
• Intended entry date and port of entry (Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar, etc.)
• Accommodation address in Tanzania
• Purpose of visit (tourism)
• Occupation and employer details (optional but helpful)

Double-check all entries carefully — errors can delay processing or trigger rejection.

Step 4: Upload Required Documents

Prepare and upload:

• Scan of your passport biographical page (color, clear, under 5MB)
• Recent passport-style photograph meeting the specifications below

Passport Photo Requirements for Tanzania Visa

Your photograph must meet these exact specifications or your application may be rejected:

• Color — colored photograph only (no black and white)
• Size — 45mm (length) × 35mm (width)
• Format — JPG or JPEG only
• File size — maximum 500KB
• Background — plain, light-colored background (white or off-white preferred)
• Face position — full face front-facing, from top of hair to bottom of chin
• Eyes — eyes open and looking directly at camera
• Expression — natural, neutral expression
• Shadows — no distracting shadows or reflections on face or background
• Head coverings — not permitted except for religious reasons; facial features from bottom of chin to top of forehead and both edges of face must be clearly visible
• Glasses — permitted if you regularly wear them; ensure eyes are clearly visible

Step 5: Pay the Visa Fee

The visa fee for an Ordinary Visa is 50 USD. Payment is made online through the portal using:

• International credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express)
• Debit card
• PayPal (where available)

The fee is non-refundable, even if your application is refused. Save your payment receipt and application confirmation number — you'll need it to track your application.

Step 6: Submit & Track

After payment, your application is submitted. You'll receive an application reference number via email. Use this number to check your application status anytime on the official portal. You can also track your visa status by logging into your account on eservices.immigration.go.tz.

Tanzania Visa Fees & Payment Methods

Visa Type	Fee (USD)	Notes
Ordinary Visa (Single Entry)	50	Standard tourist visa, 90-day stay
Multiple Entry Visa	100	12-month validity, multiple entries
Business Visa	250	For business purposes
Transit Visa	30	7-day transit only

Payment is accepted online via international credit/debit cards and PayPal. Important: Avoid third-party visa agents or unauthorized websites — they charge significantly higher fees for the same service. Apply directly through the official government portal at eservices.immigration.go.tz to pay only the official 50 USD fee.

Processing Times & Visa Validity

Tanzania Immigration guidance states that visa applications are processed within 10 business days for standard applications. However, processing times vary based on application volume and completeness of your documents.

Processing Speed	Timeframe	Additional Cost
Standard Processing	10 business days	None (included in 50 USD fee)
Rush Processing	7–10 business days	Additional fee may apply (varies by service provider)
Super Rush Processing	5–7 business days	Additional fee may apply (varies by service provider)

Best practice: Apply for your eVisa at least 3–4 weeks before your travel date to allow for processing time and any unforeseen delays. You will receive notification by email once your visa is approved, typically with a PDF copy of your visa grant notice.

How Long Is a Tanzania Visa Valid?

An Ordinary Visa (Single Entry) is valid for 90 days from the date of issue. This means you must enter Tanzania within 90 days of the visa being granted. Once you enter the country, you can stay for up to 90 days. The visa is not valid for re-entry; if you leave Tanzania, you cannot use the same visa to return — you would need a new visa or a Multiple Entry Visa.

Visa on Arrival for Canadian Citizens

If you have not applied for your eVisa in advance, Canadian citizens can obtain a visa on arrival at major entry points in Tanzania, including:

• Dar es Salaam International Airport (DAR)
• Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
• Zanzibar Airport (ZNZ)
• Land borders (with appropriate documentation)

Visa on Arrival: What You Need

To get a visa on arrival, bring:

• Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
• Completed Tanzania visa application form (available at the airport or online)
• One passport-size photograph (color, 45mm × 35mm)
• Return or onward flight ticket
• Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter)
• 50 USD cash (or equivalent in other currencies; card payment not always available)

Visa on Arrival: Processing at Immigration

When you arrive at the airport, follow these steps:

1. Locate the visa desk — look for the immigration/visa counter in the arrivals hall
2. Submit documents — hand over your completed form, passport, photo, and proof of return ticket
3. Pay the fee — 50 USD (cash preferred; some airports accept cards, but this is not guaranteed)
4. Wait for processing — typically 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on queue length
5. Receive your visa — the visa will be stamped in your passport

Note: While visa on arrival is available, applying for an eVisa in advance is strongly recommended. It's faster, avoids airport queues, and ensures your entry is pre-approved.

Entry Requirements Beyond the Visa

In addition to your visa, Canadian citizens must meet these entry requirements when arriving in Tanzania:

Passport Validity

Your Canadian passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date from Tanzania. This means if you plan to leave Tanzania on December 15, your passport must be valid until at least June 15 of the following year. Airlines may also enforce stricter validity requirements, so check with your carrier before booking.

Proof of Return or Onward Travel

You must be able to show proof of a return flight to Canada or an onward flight to another country. This can be:

• A return airline ticket
• A confirmed flight itinerary
• A booking confirmation from an airline

If you cannot show proof of onward travel, you may be refused entry at immigration.

Proof of Accommodation

Have ready confirmation of where you will stay in Tanzania, such as:

• Hotel or lodge booking confirmation
• Airbnb reservation
• Letter of invitation from a friend or family member in Tanzania (with their contact details)

Yellow Fever Vaccination (Conditional)

While not mandatory for all travelers, a yellow fever vaccination certificate may be required or recommended depending on your route. If you have traveled through or are coming from a yellow fever endemic country (such as Kenya or other African nations), you may be asked to show proof of vaccination. Confirm current health requirements with your doctor and check the latest Tanzania entry requirements before departure.

Transit Visa for Canadian Citizens

If you are passing through Tanzania to reach another country and do not plan to leave the airport, you may be eligible for a Transit Visa. This visa costs 30 USD and is valid for 7 days. However, the Transit Visa is strictly intended for those whose purpose is transiting through Tanzania to another country — not for tourism or any other activity.

To apply for a Transit Visa, you need:

• Valid passport (at least 6 months validity)
• Entry visa and/or onward ticket to your intended destination
• Completed visa application form

Extending Your Stay in Tanzania

If you wish to stay in Tanzania longer than 90 days, you must apply for a visa extension before your current visa expires. Extensions are not guaranteed and must be applied for in person at the Tanzania Immigration Department office in Dar es Salaam or through your accommodation provider. Contact the official Tanzania Immigration Department at visatanzania@immigration.go.tz or info@immigration.go.tz for detailed extension procedures.

Overstaying Your Visa: Penalties & Consequences

Overstaying a Tanzania visa carries serious penalties:

• Substantial fines — amounts vary but can be significant
• Detention — you may be held by immigration authorities
• Deportation — you may be deported at your own expense
• Future entry bans — you may be banned from entering Tanzania again
• Passport stamping — your passport will be marked, affecting future travel to other countries

Always respect the expiry date on your visa and leave Tanzania before it expires. If you need to stay longer, apply for an extension in advance.

Common Visa Application Mistakes & Rejections

To avoid delays or rejection, do not make these mistakes:

Incorrect or Incomplete Information

Errors in your name, passport number, or travel dates can cause delays or rejection. Double-check all information before submitting.

Poor Quality Photo

Photos that don't meet specifications (wrong size, background, shadows, or file format) are a leading cause of rejection. Use a professional photo or ensure your DIY photo exactly matches the 45mm × 35mm, plain background, JPG format requirements.

Missing or Unclear Documents

Ensure your passport scan is clear, readable, and in color. Blurry or black-and-white scans will be rejected.

No Proof of Accommodation or Return Ticket

Immigration needs to verify you have somewhere to stay and a way to leave. Provide clear booking confirmations.

Applying Too Close to Travel Date

Applying fewer than 3 weeks before your trip risks missing the processing window. Apply early to avoid last-minute stress.

Using Unauthorized Visa Agents

Third-party agents charge 100+ USD for a 50 USD visa. Always apply through the official government portal at eservices.immigration.go.tz.

Multiple Entry Visa for Canadian Citizens

If you plan to leave and re-enter Tanzania during your stay (for example, to visit Kenya for a few days and return), apply for a Multiple Entry Visa instead of the Ordinary Visa. This costs 100 USD and is valid for 12 months, allowing multiple entries and exits. However, each individual stay is still limited to 90 days.

Business & Student Visas

Canadian citizens traveling for business purposes should apply for a Business Visa (250 USD). Students enrolled in Tanzanian educational institutions should apply for a Student Visa (50 USD for a single 3-month visa, or 250 USD for multiple entries over 2 years). Both require additional supporting documents such as a letter from your employer or educational institution.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Visa Process

• Apply early: Submit your eVisa application 3–4 weeks before your travel date.
• Use the official portal: Apply directly at eservices.immigration.go.tz to avoid scams and inflated fees.
• Check your passport validity: Ensure your passport has at least 6 months validity beyond your intended departure date.
• Keep copies: Print and save digital copies of your visa approval, passport, and travel documents.
• Confirm health requirements: Check if you need a yellow fever vaccination or other health certificates before departure.
• Book accommodations: Secure your hotel or lodge booking before applying — you'll need proof for your visa application.
• Plan your safari: Once your visa is approved, you can confidently book your Tanzania safari and explore parks like the Serengeti and Kilimanjaro.

Where to Find Official Help

For official information and support:

• Tanzania Immigration Department (Official): www.immigration.go.tz
• eVisa Portal: eservices.immigration.go.tz
• Email Support: visatanzania@immigration.go.tz or info@immigration.go.tz
• Canadian Government Travel Advice: travel.gc.ca/destinations/tanzania — for up-to-date entry requirements and safety information

Last checked July 2026 — always confirm with official sources before travelling. Visa requirements and fees can change at any time. Verify the latest information on the official Tanzania Immigration website and with your nearest Tanzanian embassy or consulate before booking your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Canadian citizens need a visa for Tanzania?

Yes, Canadian citizens require a visa to enter Tanzania. You can apply online for an eVisa (recommended) or obtain a visa on arrival at the airport. The standard tourist visa (Ordinary Visa) costs 50 USD for a single entry with a 90-day stay.

How much does a Tanzania visa cost for Canadian citizens?

The Ordinary Visa (Single Entry) for tourism costs 50 USD. A Multiple Entry Visa costs 100 USD and is valid for 12 months. Business visas cost 250 USD. Transit visas cost 30 USD. Always apply through the official government portal to pay only the official fee.

How long does a Tanzania eVisa take to process?

Standard processing takes 10 business days. Most applications are approved within this timeframe if your documents are complete and accurate. Apply at least 3–4 weeks before your travel date to allow for processing time and any delays.

How long is a Tanzania visa valid for?

An Ordinary Visa is valid for 90 days from the date of issue. This means you must enter Tanzania within 90 days of the visa being granted. Once you enter, you can stay for up to 90 days. The visa does not allow re-entry; you would need a new visa to return.

Can I get a Tanzania visa on arrival if I'm a Canadian citizen?

Yes, visa on arrival is available at major airports (Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar) and some land borders. You'll need your passport, a completed application form, one photo, return ticket proof, accommodation proof, and 50 USD cash. However, applying for an eVisa in advance is strongly recommended to avoid queues and ensure pre-approval.

What documents do I need to apply for a Tanzania eVisa?

You need: (1) a valid passport with at least 6 months validity, (2) a scan of your passport biographical page, (3) a colored passport-size photo (45mm × 35mm, JPG/JPEG, max 500KB, plain background, full face), (4) a return flight ticket or itinerary, and (5) proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter).

What are the photo requirements for a Tanzania visa?

The photo must be colored, 45mm × 35mm in size, JPG or JPEG format, max 500KB, with a plain background, full face front-facing from top of hair to bottom of chin, eyes open, natural expression, no shadows, and no head coverings (except for religious reasons with full facial visibility). Glasses are permitted if regularly worn.

What is the passport validity requirement for Tanzania?

Your Canadian passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date from Tanzania. If you plan to leave on December 15, your passport must be valid until at least June 15 of the following year.

Can I extend my Tanzania visa if I need to stay longer than 90 days?

Yes, but you must apply for an extension before your current visa expires. Extensions are not guaranteed and must be applied for in person at the Tanzania Immigration Department office in Dar es Salaam or through your accommodation provider. Contact visatanzania@immigration.go.tz for details.

What happens if I overstay my Tanzania visa?

Overstaying can result in substantial fines, detention, deportation at your own expense, future entry bans, and your passport being marked — affecting future travel. Always respect the expiry date on your visa and leave Tanzania before it expires.

Should I apply for a Single Entry or Multiple Entry visa?

Apply for a Single Entry Ordinary Visa (50 USD) if you plan to stay in Tanzania for one continuous period. Choose a Multiple Entry Visa (100 USD, valid 12 months) if you plan to leave and re-enter Tanzania during your trip, such as visiting Kenya and returning.

Where do I apply for a Tanzania eVisa?

Apply directly at the official government portal: eservices.immigration.go.tz. Never use third-party visa agents, as they charge inflated fees (100+ USD) for the same service. The official fee is only 50 USD.