Tanzania Visa for Indian Citizens 2026: Requirements & How to Apply

Do Indian Citizens Need a Visa for Tanzania?

Yes. Indian passport holders require a visa to enter Tanzania for any purpose, including tourism, business, or transit. Tanzania does not offer visa-free entry to Indian nationals. You have two main routes: apply for an eVisa online before arrival (recommended) or obtain a visa on arrival at designated entry points, though the latter carries higher rejection risk and potential delays at immigration.

Visa Types for Indian Citizens

Tanzania offers several visa categories. Select the one matching your travel purpose:

• Ordinary Visa (Single Entry) : $50 USD. Valid for 90 days from issue date. For tourism, leisure, visiting friends and family. Single entry only.
• Multiple Entry Visa : $100 USD. Valid for 12 months. Allows multiple visits within 12 months, with each stay capped at 90 days. Requires justification (business contracts, family ties, or frequent travel).
• Business Visa : $250 USD. For short-term business activities, meetings, or assignments. Requires a business invitation letter from a Tanzanian company.
• Transit Visa : $30 USD. For travelers passing through Tanzania for up to 7 days en route to another destination.
• Student Visa : $50 USD (single entry, 3 months); $250 USD (multiple, 2 years); $300 USD (research, 6 months); $550 USD (PhD, 2 years). Requires university admission letter.

Most Indian tourists apply for the Ordinary Visa. When you're ready to book your safari, explore verified safari operators in Tanzania to plan your itinerary alongside your visa application.

Step-by-Step Application Process

The official Tanzania eVisa portal (visa.immigration.go.tz) is the safest and most direct route. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Create Your Account

Visit visa.immigration.go.tz. Register with a valid email address and strong password. You will use this account to track your application status.

Step 2: Complete the Application Form

Fill in your personal details (full name, date of birth, passport number, contact information) and travel information (intended entry date, first destination, accommodation address, return/onward flight details). The form takes approximately 10 minutes to complete. Ensure all information matches your passport exactly.

Step 3: Upload Required Documents

Prepare and upload the following documents in digital form:

• Passport bio-data page: A clear, color scan or photograph of your passport's first page showing your photo, name, passport number, date of birth, and expiry date.
• Passport photo :
  • Colored photograph on a plain white or light background
  • Full face, front-facing view from top of hair to bottom of chin
  • Eyes open, natural expression, no distracting shadows
  • Size: 45mm (length) × 35mm (width)
  • File size: maximum 500KB
  • Format: JPG or JPEG only
  • If you wear glasses regularly, you may wear them in the photo
  • Religious head coverings are permitted only if facial features from chin to forehead and both edges of face are clearly visible
• Return or onward ticket : Proof of your departure from Tanzania (flight itinerary showing date and destination).
• Accommodation proof: Hotel booking confirmation, guest house reservation, or invitation letter from a host in Tanzania showing your intended stay.
• For business visas : Invitation letter from the Tanzanian company or organization you will visit.
• For student visas: University admission letter or enrollment confirmation.
• Yellow fever certificate (if applicable): See health requirements below.

Step 4: Pay the Visa Fee

Select your visa type and pay the corresponding fee using a credit or debit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express accepted). Payment is processed online and is non-refundable if your application is rejected.

Step 5: Receive Your eVisa

Once approved, you will receive your eVisa as a PDF attachment via email. Print it and carry it with your passport. Some travelers also recommend keeping a digital copy on your phone.

Visa Fees & Payment Methods

Visa Type	Fee (USD)	Validity	Entry Type
Ordinary Visa	$50	90 days from issue	Single entry
Multiple Entry Visa	$100	12 months	Multiple entries (90 days per stay)
Business Visa	$250	90 days	Single or multiple (varies)
Transit Visa	$30	7 days	Single entry
Student Visa (3 months)	$50	3 months	Single entry
Student Visa (2 years multiple)	$250	2 years	Multiple entries
Research Visa (6 months)	$300	6 months	Single entry
PhD Visa (2 years)	$550	2 years	Multiple entries

Payment Methods : Credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express) and PayPal are accepted on the official portal. Payment is processed securely online. Fees are charged in USD and converted if you pay in another currency.

Rush Processing : If you need your visa faster, third-party visa services (not the official portal) may offer rush options:

• Rush Processing: 7–10 working days, additional cost ~$50
• Super Rush Processing: 5–7 working days, additional cost ~$99

These are optional and provided by private agents, not the government. The official portal does not advertise rush fees.

Processing Times & Visa Validity

Official Processing Time : Tanzania Immigration states that online eVisa applications are processed within 10 days, except for referral visa cases (which take longer). Most applicants receive approval within 3–7 business days.

Validity [1, 11]: Your visa is valid for a set period from the date of issue:

• Ordinary Visa: 90 days from issue date (single entry only)
• Multiple Entry Visa: 12 months from issue date (multiple entries allowed, each stay up to 90 days)
• Business Visa: 90 days from issue date
• Transit Visa: 7 days from issue date

Best Practice: Apply at least 2–3 weeks before your intended travel date to allow for processing and any unexpected delays. Do not purchase non-refundable flights or accommodations until your eVisa is approved and in hand.

Tracking Your Application : Use the online status tool on visa.immigration.go.tz with your application reference number and email address to check your application status in real time.

Passport Requirements

Your Indian passport must meet these criteria :

• Validity: At least 6 months remaining validity beyond your intended date of departure from Tanzania
• Blank Pages: At least 2 blank pages for immigration stamps
• Condition: Not damaged, torn, or defaced
• Type: Ordinary Indian passport (diplomatic and official passports have different rules)

Health & Yellow Fever Requirements

Yellow Fever Vaccination : Indian citizens traveling directly from India to Tanzania are not required to present a yellow fever vaccination certificate, as India is not classified as a yellow fever endemic country by the World Health Organization.

However , if you are traveling to Tanzania from or via a yellow fever endemic country (such as Kenya, Uganda, or other African nations), you must present proof of yellow fever vaccination at Tanzanian immigration. Recommended endemic countries include most of sub-Saharan Africa.

Other Health Precautions: While not visa requirements, travelers are advised to check current health recommendations for Tanzania and consult a travel clinic 4–6 weeks before departure. Malaria prophylaxis is recommended for most regions of Tanzania.

Visa on Arrival: An Alternative

Indian citizens can obtain a visa on arrival at Tanzania's airports and designated border crossings . However, this route is not recommended for the following reasons:

• Higher Rejection Risk: Immigration officers have discretion to refuse entry if documents are incomplete or unconvincing.
• Delays: Processing at the airport can take 1–2 hours or longer, especially during peak travel times.
• Limited Document Review: Officers may scrutinize your return ticket, accommodation proof, and funds more strictly than online reviewers.
• Cash Payment Required: You must pay the visa fee in USD cash at the airport, and exchange rates may be unfavorable.

If you do apply on arrival, ensure you have all required documents (passport, return ticket, accommodation proof, passport photo, and USD cash) ready before landing.

Entry Points for Indian Nationals

If you obtain an eVisa, you can enter Tanzania at:

• Julius Nyerere International Airport (Dar es Salaam) – main international gateway
• Kilimanjaro International Airport (Arusha) – gateway for safari regions
• Zanzibar Stone Town Airport – for Zanzibar entry
• Land border crossings with Kenya, Uganda, Malawi, Mozambique, Zambia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (less common for tourists)

Most safari-bound travelers arrive via Kilimanjaro or Dar es Salaam. When booking your safari, compare package options from established safari operators to coordinate your arrival logistics.

What Happens at Immigration (Arrival Procedures)

When you arrive in Tanzania with your eVisa:

1. Queue at Immigration: Join the queue for passport control. Have your eVisa (printed or digital), passport, and return ticket ready.
2. Present Documents: Hand your passport and eVisa to the immigration officer. They will scan your passport and verify your visa approval in their system.
3. Answer Questions: Be prepared to state your purpose of visit (tourism, business, visiting family), your accommodation address, and departure date.
4. Fingerprints & Photos: You may be asked to provide fingerprints and have your photo taken for the entry record.
5. Passport Stamp: The officer will stamp your passport with the entry date and permitted stay duration. Your eVisa is your authorization; the stamp confirms your legal entry.
6. Proceed to Baggage Claim: Collect your luggage and proceed through customs (standard screening for prohibited items).

The entire process typically takes 15–30 minutes, depending on queue length and officer thoroughness.

Visa Extensions & Overstays

Extending Your Stay: If you need to stay longer than your visa allows, you can apply for an extension at the Tanzania Immigration Office in Dar es Salaam or Arusha. Extensions are not guaranteed and require a valid reason (medical emergency, family crisis, etc.). Plan to extend at least 1–2 weeks before your visa expires to avoid overstay penalties.

Overstaying Your Visa: Remaining in Tanzania beyond your visa expiry date is illegal and will result in:

• Fines (typically $100–$500 USD or more)
• Detention and deportation
• Future visa rejections to Tanzania and neighboring East African countries
• Potential entry bans

Always depart on or before your visa expiry date to avoid these consequences.

Common Visa Mistakes & Rejection Reasons

Protect your application by avoiding these common errors:

• Passport Photo Issues : Photos with colored backgrounds, poor lighting, closed eyes, or incorrect dimensions are the leading rejection cause. Ensure your photo meets all specifications (45mm × 35mm, colored, plain background, full face).
• Passport Data Mismatch: Information on your application form must match your passport exactly (name spelling, date of birth, passport number). Even minor discrepancies cause rejections.
• Insufficient Passport Validity: Your passport must have 6+ months validity from your intended departure date, not just arrival date. Check before applying.
• Missing or Unclear Documents: Blurry scans of your passport bio page or return ticket are often rejected. Use a scanner or high-quality camera in good lighting.
• No Return Ticket : Tanzanian immigration requires proof of onward travel (return flight or flight to a third country). A one-way ticket will likely result in rejection or questioning at the border.
• Incomplete Accommodation Details: Provide a specific hotel name, address, and booking confirmation. "Visiting a friend" without an address is insufficient.
• Applying Too Close to Travel Date: Applying fewer than 10 days before your trip risks delays. Allow 2–3 weeks for peace of mind.
• Business Visa Without Invitation Letter : If applying for a business visa, a letter from your Tanzanian host company is mandatory. Tourist visas do not require this.
• Inconsistent Travel Dates: Ensure your application entry date, return ticket date, and hotel booking dates align logically.

Cost Comparison: eVisa vs. On Arrival vs. Third-Party Agents

Route	Base Visa Fee	Service Fee	Total Cost	Processing Time	Risk Level
Official Portal (visa.immigration.go.tz)	$50 (ordinary)	None	$50	10 days	Low
On Arrival (Airport)	$50 (ordinary)	None	$50	1–2 hours	High
Third-Party Agent (e.g., iVisa)	$50 (ordinary)	$20–$50	$70–$100	7–10 days	Medium

Recommendation: Use the official portal (visa.immigration.go.tz) to save money and avoid intermediaries. Third-party agents charge a service markup but may offer customer support in your language.

Special Scenarios for Indian Citizens

Dual Nationals or Citizenship Questions

Apply using your Indian passport. If you hold another nationality, you may be eligible for different visa terms under that passport. However, once you enter Tanzania on your Indian passport, you must exit on the same passport.

Traveling with Minors

Children need their own passports and visas. Apply for each child separately on the eVisa portal. When traveling with minors, carry:

• Each child's passport and eVisa
• Original or certified copy of birth certificate
• Consent letter from both parents if traveling with one parent only

Group Travel

If traveling with a group, each member must apply for their own eVisa. There is no group discount on the official portal. Submit applications simultaneously to ensure synchronized approval.

Business Travelers & Digital Nomads

The ordinary tourist visa (90 days) is suitable for short business visits. If you plan to work remotely for an extended period or conduct business operations in Tanzania, consult the Tanzania Immigration Department (visatanzania@immigration.go.tz) about the appropriate visa category, as working without the correct visa may violate local law.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Indian citizens need a visa for Tanzania?

Yes, all Indian passport holders require a visa to enter Tanzania for any purpose. Tanzania does not offer visa-free entry to Indian nationals. Apply for an eVisa online before travel, or obtain a visa on arrival at the airport, though online approval is strongly recommended.

How much does a Tanzania visa cost for Indian citizens?

The ordinary tourist visa (single entry) costs $50 USD . A multiple-entry visa costs $100 USD. Business visas cost $250 USD. These are the official government fees; third-party agents may charge additional service fees. Pay online via credit/debit card on the official portal.

How long does a Tanzania eVisa take to process?

Tanzania Immigration states that eVisas are processed within 10 days . Most applications are approved within 3–7 business days. Apply at least 2–3 weeks before your trip to allow for processing and any unforeseen delays. Third-party agents may offer rush options (5–7 days) for an extra fee (~$50–$99).

Is a yellow fever vaccination required for Indian citizens visiting Tanzania?

No, if you are traveling directly from India to Tanzania . India is not a yellow fever endemic country. However, if you are traveling from or via a yellow fever endemic country (most of sub-Saharan Africa), you must present proof of yellow fever vaccination at Tanzanian immigration.

Can I get a visa on arrival in Tanzania as an Indian citizen?

Yes, Indian citizens can obtain a visa on arrival at Tanzania's airports and designated border crossings . However, this route carries higher rejection risk and potential delays. The official eVisa portal is safer and more reliable.

What is the validity period of a Tanzania tourist visa for Indian citizens?

The ordinary tourist visa is valid for 90 days from the date of issue . This is the period within which you can enter Tanzania; once you arrive, you can typically stay for the same 90 days or until the visa expiry date, whichever comes first. The exact permitted stay duration is stamped in your passport at immigration.

Can I extend my Tanzania visa once I arrive?

Yes, you can apply for a visa extension at the Tanzania Immigration Office in Dar es Salaam or Arusha before your visa expires. Extensions are not automatic and require a valid reason. Plan to apply at least 1–2 weeks before expiry to avoid overstay penalties.

What documents do I need to apply for a Tanzania eVisa as an Indian citizen?

You need: (1) a valid Indian passport (6+ months validity, 2+ blank pages), (2) a colored passport photo (45mm × 35mm, plain background, full face), (3) a scanned copy of your passport bio-data page, (4) a return or onward flight ticket, and (5) proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter) [2, 10]. Business visa applicants must also submit a business invitation letter.

Can I apply for a Tanzania visa with a passport valid for less than 6 months?

No. Your Indian passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date from Tanzania . If your passport is expiring soon, renew it before applying for your visa.

What is the difference between an ordinary visa and a multiple-entry visa for Tanzania?

An ordinary visa ($50 USD) allows a single entry and 90-day stay . A multiple-entry visa ($100 USD) is valid for 12 months and permits multiple visits to Tanzania, with each stay capped at 90 days . Choose the multiple-entry visa if you plan to visit Tanzania more than once within a year or if you are crossing in and out of Tanzania multiple times.

What should I do if my Tanzania eVisa application is rejected?

If your application is rejected, you will receive an email explaining the reason (e.g., poor photo quality, passport data mismatch, missing documents). Review the feedback, correct the issue, and reapply. Most rejections are due to photo problems or document clarity. You can reapply as many times as needed. If you are unsure why you were rejected, contact the Tanzania Immigration Department at visatanzania@immigration.go.tz for clarification.

How long can I stay in Tanzania with an ordinary visa?

The ordinary visa is valid for 90 days from the date of issue . You can typically stay in Tanzania for up to 90 days from your date of entry, or until the visa expires, whichever comes first. The exact permitted stay duration is stamped in your passport at immigration. If you need to stay longer, apply for an extension at the Tanzania Immigration Office before your visa expires.

Can I work in Tanzania on a tourist visa?

No. The ordinary tourist visa ($50 USD) does not permit employment or paid work in Tanzania. If you plan to work, you need an employment visa or work permit. Consult the Tanzania Immigration Department (visatanzania@immigration.go.tz) for the appropriate visa category for your employment situation.

Key Contacts & Resources

• Official Tanzania eVisa Portal: visa.immigration.go.tz – Apply online for your eVisa here.
• Tanzania Immigration Department: visatanzania@immigration.go.tz or info@immigration.go.tz – For inquiries about visa requirements and processing.
• Indian Ministry of External Affairs Visa Facility List : India recognizes Tanzania as a visa-requiring country for Indian citizens. Tanzania does offer visa-on-arrival for Indian nationals, though the online eVisa is preferred.

Final Checklist Before You Travel

• ☐ Indian passport valid for 6+ months beyond departure date
• ☐ eVisa approval email received and printed (or saved digitally)
• ☐ Return or onward flight ticket booked
• ☐ Accommodation confirmed (hotel booking or invitation letter)
• ☐ Yellow fever vaccination certificate (if traveling via endemic countries)
• ☐ Travel insurance arranged (recommended)
• ☐ Copies of all documents stored separately from originals
• ☐ Currency exchanged or credit cards arranged for Tanzania (TZS – Tanzanian Shilling)
• ☐ Malaria prophylaxis obtained from a travel clinic (if recommended for your region of Tanzania)

Last checked July 2026 — always confirm with official sources before travelling. Visa policies and fees can change. Before finalizing your travel plans, verify current requirements on the official Tanzania Immigration portal (visa.immigration.go.tz) or contact the Tanzania Immigration Department directly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Indian citizens need a visa for Tanzania?

Yes, all Indian passport holders require a visa to enter Tanzania for any purpose. Tanzania does not offer visa-free entry to Indian nationals. Apply for an eVisa online before travel, or obtain a visa on arrival at the airport, though online approval is strongly recommended.

How much does a Tanzania visa cost for Indian citizens?

The ordinary tourist visa (single entry) costs $50 USD. A multiple-entry visa costs $100 USD. Business visas cost $250 USD. These are the official government fees; third-party agents may charge additional service fees.

How long does a Tanzania eVisa take to process?

Tanzania Immigration states that eVisas are processed within 10 days. Most applications are approved within 3–7 business days. Apply at least 2–3 weeks before your trip to allow for processing and any unforeseen delays.

Is a yellow fever vaccination required for Indian citizens visiting Tanzania?

No, if you are traveling directly from India to Tanzania. India is not a yellow fever endemic country. However, if you are traveling from or via a yellow fever endemic country, you must present proof of yellow fever vaccination at Tanzanian immigration.

Can I get a visa on arrival in Tanzania as an Indian citizen?

Yes, Indian citizens can obtain a visa on arrival at Tanzania's airports and designated border crossings. However, this route carries higher rejection risk and potential delays. The official eVisa portal is safer and more reliable.

What is the validity period of a Tanzania tourist visa for Indian citizens?

The ordinary tourist visa is valid for 90 days from the date of issue. This is the period within which you can enter Tanzania; once you arrive, you can typically stay for up to 90 days or until the visa expiry date, whichever comes first.

Can I extend my Tanzania visa once I arrive?

Yes, you can apply for a visa extension at the Tanzania Immigration Office in Dar es Salaam or Arusha before your visa expires. Extensions are not automatic and require a valid reason. Plan to apply at least 1–2 weeks before expiry to avoid overstay penalties.

What documents do I need to apply for a Tanzania eVisa as an Indian citizen?

You need: a valid Indian passport (6+ months validity, 2+ blank pages), a colored passport photo (45mm × 35mm, plain background, full face), a scanned copy of your passport bio-data page, a return or onward flight ticket, and proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter). Business visa applicants must also submit a business invitation letter.

What is the difference between an ordinary visa and a multiple-entry visa for Tanzania?

An ordinary visa ($50 USD) allows a single entry and 90-day stay. A multiple-entry visa ($100 USD) is valid for 12 months and permits multiple visits to Tanzania, with each stay capped at 90 days. Choose multiple-entry if you plan to visit Tanzania more than once within a year.

What should I do if my Tanzania eVisa application is rejected?

You will receive an email explaining the reason (e.g., poor photo quality, passport data mismatch, missing documents). Review the feedback, correct the issue, and reapply. Most rejections are due to photo problems or document clarity. Contact the Tanzania Immigration Department at visatanzania@immigration.go.tz if you need clarification.

Can I work in Tanzania on a tourist visa?

No. The ordinary tourist visa ($50 USD) does not permit employment or paid work in Tanzania. If you plan to work, you need an employment visa or work permit. Consult the Tanzania Immigration Department for the appropriate visa category.

What are the best times to visit Tanzania for safari after obtaining my visa?

The dry seasons (June–October and January–February) are ideal for safari, when wildlife is concentrated around water sources. Peak migration occurs July–October in the Serengeti. Once your visa is approved, coordinate your arrival with safari operators to maximize wildlife viewing opportunities.