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

Do Italian Citizens Need a Visa for Tanzania?

Yes, Italian citizens require a visa to enter Tanzania. Italy is not on the list of countries with visa-free access to Tanzania. However, the application process is straightforward: you can apply for an eVisa online before travel or obtain a visa on arrival at major entry points. Both options allow a maximum stay of 90 days for tourism purposes.

Quick Facts: Tanzania Visa for Italian Citizens

Requirement	Details
Visa Required?	Yes
Visa Type	Ordinary Visa (eVisa or Visa on Arrival)
Fee	50 USD
Processing Time	5–10 business days (eVisa)
Maximum Stay	90 days
Passport Validity	6 months from date of arrival
Blank Pages Required	At least 2 blank pages
Official Portal	eservices.immigration.go.tz

Visa Types for Italian Citizens

Tanzania offers several visa categories. For tourism—the most common purpose for Italian travellers—you'll apply for an Ordinary Visa.

Ordinary Visa (Tourism)

The standard tourist visa for Italian citizens visiting Tanzania for leisure, cultural visits, or family reasons. Cost: 50 USD. Valid for a single entry, with a maximum stay of 90 days. This is the visa type most Italian travellers use when booking Tanzania safari and Zanzibar packages or exploring the country independently.

Multiple Entry Visa

If you plan to exit and re-enter Tanzania multiple times during your trip (e.g., combining a safari with a visit to Kenya), the Multiple Entry Visa costs 100 USD and is valid for 90 days.

Transit Visa

If you are passing through Tanzania en route to another country and will not leave the airport or transit zone, a Transit Visa costs 30 USD. This is strictly for transit purposes only and is not intended for tourism or any other activity.

Business Visa

For business meetings, conferences, or commercial activities, the Business Visa costs 250 USD.

How to Apply for a Tanzania eVisa Online

The easiest and fastest way for Italian citizens to obtain a Tanzania visa is through the official online portal. Here's the step-by-step process:

Step 1: Visit the Official Portal

Go to eservices.immigration.go.tz. This is the only official government portal for Tanzania visa applications. Avoid third-party agents or unofficial websites, which often charge higher fees for the same service.

Step 2: Create an Account and Start Your Application

Register with your email address and create a password. You will then complete the online visa application form, providing:

• Full name (as it appears in your passport)
• Date of birth
• Passport number and expiry date
• Nationality (Italy)
• Purpose of visit (Tourism)
• Intended date of arrival and departure
• Accommodation details (hotel name or address where you'll stay)
• Email address and phone number

Important: Double-check all information before submission. Errors can cause delays or rejection.

Step 3: Upload Required Documents

You will need to upload digital copies (scans or photos) of:

Passport Biographical Data Page

• Color scan or clear photo of the page showing your passport number, name, date of birth, and validity dates
• File format: JPG or JPEG
• File size: Maximum 500 KB
• Ensure all text is legible

Passport-Sized Photograph

This is the most critical document. Tanzania immigration has strict photo requirements:

• Color photograph only (no black and white)
• Plain background (white or light neutral colour)
• Full face, front view: Head must be centered, facing directly at the camera, from the top of your hair to the bottom of your chin
• Eyes open and looking directly at the camera
• Natural expression (no exaggerated smiles or frowns)
• No distracting shadows or marks on face or background
• Size: 45 mm (length) × 35 mm (width)
• File format: JPG or JPEG
• File size: Maximum 500 KB
• Glasses: Permitted if you wear them regularly; ensure the eyes are clearly visible and there are no reflections on the lenses
• Head coverings: Not permitted except for genuine religious reasons; your entire face from forehead to chin and both sides must be clearly visible

Pro tip: Use a professional passport photo service or take a new photo at home with a plain white background and good lighting. Poor-quality photos are a common reason for visa rejections.

Step 4: Provide Travel Documents

Upload copies of:

• Return or onward ticket: Proof of your flight out of Tanzania (e-ticket or booking confirmation)
• Proof of accommodation: Hotel reservation, Airbnb confirmation, or letter of invitation from a host in Tanzania

Step 5: Pay the Visa Fee

The Ordinary Visa fee for Italian citizens is 50 USD. The online portal accepts international credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard).

• Payment is processed immediately
• Save your payment receipt for your records
• If your card is declined, try a different card or contact your bank to authorize international payments

Note: Some travellers carry 50 USD in cash as a backup in case of technical issues, though online payment is the standard method.

Step 6: Submit and Await Approval

After submitting your application and payment, you will receive a confirmation email with your application reference number. Check your email (including spam folder) regularly for updates.

Visa Processing Times & Validity

Understanding processing times and visa validity is crucial for planning your trip.

Processing Time

The official processing time for a Tanzania eVisa is 5–10 business days. This is measured from the date your application is submitted and payment is confirmed, not from the date you receive the confirmation email.

• Standard processing: 7–10 business days
• Express processing: Not officially advertised, but applications may be approved within 5 business days if all documents are correct and submitted during business hours
• Business days only: Processing does not occur on weekends or Tanzanian public holidays

Recommendation: Apply at least 2–3 weeks before your intended travel date to allow time for processing and to handle any document requests or rejections without stress.

Visa Validity & Length of Stay

Once approved, your eVisa is typically valid for 90 days from the date of issue. This means:

• You must enter Tanzania within 90 days of approval
• Once you enter, you are permitted to stay for up to 90 days
• You must exit Tanzania before the 90-day period expires

The visa is for a single entry only, so if you leave Tanzania and plan to re-enter, you will need to apply for a new visa or have applied for a Multiple Entry Visa beforehand.

Visa on Arrival: Alternative Option

If you prefer not to apply online in advance, or if your application is rejected, Italian citizens can obtain a visa on arrival at major entry points in Tanzania.

Where to Obtain Visa on Arrival

• Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA) – near Arusha, gateway to northern safari regions
• Julius Nyerere International Airport (Dar es Salaam) – Tanzania's largest airport
• Zanzibar Stone Town Airport – if arriving by direct flight to the islands
• Land borders: Major border posts (e.g., Kenya-Tanzania border)

What to Bring for Visa on Arrival

• Valid passport with at least 6 months validity and 2 blank pages
• Completed TZ Form (available at the airport or online in advance)
• Passport-sized photograph (same requirements as eVisa)
• 50 USD in cash (or equivalent; some locations accept cards, but cash is more reliable)
• Return ticket or proof of onward travel
• Proof of accommodation

Processing at Immigration

Upon arrival, proceed to the visa counter. The process typically takes 15–30 minutes. Immigration officers will:

• Review your documents
• Ask about the purpose of your visit and length of stay
• Stamp your visa into your passport
• Grant you entry to Tanzania

Advantage: No waiting for online approval; you get your visa immediately. Disadvantage: Longer queues at the airport, potential for rejection if documents are incomplete, and the process is less predictable.

Passport Requirements for Italian Citizens

Your Italian passport must meet specific criteria:

• Validity: At least 6 months remaining from the date of your arrival in Tanzania
• Blank pages: At least 2 blank pages for visa stamps and entry/exit marks
• Condition: Must be in good condition with no damage to the biographic data page
• Sex marker: Only passports with M or F sex markers are accepted

If your passport expires within 6 months of your planned trip or has fewer than 2 blank pages, renew it before applying for your visa.

Visa Fees & Payment Methods

Here's a breakdown of Tanzania visa fees for Italian citizens:

Visa Type	Purpose	Fee (USD)	Validity
Ordinary Visa	Tourism, leisure, family visits	50	90 days
Multiple Entry Visa	Multiple entries within a set period	100	90 days
Transit Visa	Passing through Tanzania to another country	30	24–48 hours
Business Visa	Business meetings, conferences	250	Varies

Payment Methods

Online applications via eservices.immigration.go.tz accept:

• International credit cards: Visa, Mastercard
• Debit cards: If enabled for international transactions

Important: Ensure your bank has authorized international payments before applying. Contact your bank if your card is declined. For visa on arrival, bring cash (50 USD) as a backup, though some airports now accept card payments.

Embassy of Tanzania in Rome

If you have questions or need assistance, the Embassy of Tanzania in Rome can help:

• Address: Villa Tanzania, Viale Cortina D'Ampezzo 185, 00135 Rome, Italy
• Telephone: +39 0633485820
• Email: rome@nje.go.tz
• Consular Services Hours: Monday–Friday, 10:00 AM–2:30 PM

The embassy handles visa applications, passport services, and general inquiries from Italian residents.

What to Expect at Tanzania Immigration on Arrival

Whether you arrive with a pre-approved eVisa or apply for a visa on arrival, here's what happens at immigration:

For eVisa Holders

• You will have received an approval email with your eVisa as a PDF attachment
• Print your eVisa (or have it ready on your phone) to present at immigration
• Go to the immigration counter and show your passport and eVisa approval
• The officer will verify your details, check your documents, and stamp your passport with an entry stamp
• Process typically takes 5–10 minutes
• Proceed to baggage claim and customs

Standard Immigration Questions

Immigration officers may ask:

• "What is the purpose of your visit?" (Answer: Tourism/Safari/Visiting family)
• "How long are you staying?" (Answer: e.g., 10 days, 2 weeks)
• "Where will you be staying?" (Answer: Hotel name or accommodation address)
• "Do you have a return ticket?" (Show your outbound flight booking)
• "How will you support yourself?" (Mention credit cards, traveller's cheques, or bank statements if asked)

Answer honestly and briefly. Officers are primarily checking that you have legitimate travel plans and sufficient funds.

Prohibited Items Check

After immigration, you'll pass through customs. Tanzania prohibits certain items; avoid carrying:

• Illegal drugs
• Weapons or explosives
• Certain animal products (e.g., ivory, endangered wildlife)
• Large amounts of cash without declaration (over 10,000 USD)

Declare any medications, electronics, or valuable items if requested.

Visa Extensions & Overstays

What if you want to stay longer than your visa allows?

Extending Your Visa

If you need to extend your stay beyond 90 days, you can apply for a visa extension through the Tanzania Immigration Department while in the country. However, extensions are not guaranteed and require a valid reason (e.g., medical emergency, business extension). Contact the Immigration Department or visit an immigration office in Dar es Salaam or Arusha to inquire about extension procedures and fees.

Overstaying Your Visa

Do not overstay. Remaining in Tanzania beyond your visa expiry date is a serious violation. Consequences include:

• Fines: Significant financial penalties per day of overstay
• Deportation: Forced removal from Tanzania at your expense
• Future visa denials: You may be banned from re-entering Tanzania or other countries
• Legal complications: Potential arrest and detention

Always plan your exit date carefully and leave Tanzania before your visa expires.

Common Visa Mistakes & Rejection Reasons

Here are the most frequent reasons Italian applicants face visa delays or rejections:

Poor-Quality Passport Photo

Issue: Blurry, off-center, wrong background, or non-compliant sizing. Solution: Use a professional passport photo service or take a new one following the exact specifications above. This is the #1 cause of rejection.

Passport Validity Issues

Issue: Passport expires within 6 months or has fewer than 2 blank pages. Solution: Renew your passport before applying. Check your passport validity date carefully.

Incomplete or Incorrect Information

Issue: Misspelled name, wrong passport number, incorrect email address, or missing fields. Solution: Double-check all entries against your passport before submitting. A single typo can cause rejection.

Missing or Invalid Documents

Issue: No return ticket, no accommodation proof, or illegible scans. Solution: Ensure all documents are uploaded, legible, and current. Use a scanner rather than a phone camera if possible.

Using Unauthorized Third-Party Agents

Issue: Applying through unofficial visa agents who charge inflated fees and sometimes submit incorrect information. Solution: Apply directly through the official portal at eservices.immigration.go.tz. The fee is always 50 USD for an Ordinary Visa; if an agent quotes more, they are overcharging.

Applying Too Close to Travel Date

Issue: Submitting an application 2–3 days before travel with no buffer for processing or corrections. Solution: Apply at least 2–3 weeks in advance. This gives time for processing and allows you to resubmit if needed.

Combining Tanzania Visa with Regional Travel

Many Italian travellers combine a Tanzania safari with visits to neighbouring countries. Here's what you should know:

Tanzania + Kenya

If you're planning to visit both Tanzania and Kenya, note that Kenya also requires a visa for Italian citizens. You can apply for both visas separately before travel, or obtain Kenya's eVisa on arrival. The Multiple Entry Visa for Tanzania (100 USD) is useful if you plan to cross the Kenya-Tanzania border more than once.

Tanzania + Uganda or Rwanda

Both Uganda and Rwanda require visas for Italian citizens. Apply for each country's visa independently. Tanzania's visa is separate and does not cover entry to other East African nations.

Tanzania + Zambia or Mozambique

Zambia does not require a visa for Italian citizens (visa-free entry for 30 days). Mozambique requires a visa. If you're combining countries, plan your visa applications carefully and allow extra time for processing.

Health & Travel Insurance Considerations

While a visa is your legal entry document, Tanzania also has health entry requirements. Although the research does not detail current vaccination mandates, it's essential to consult official health resources before travel. Consider reviewing resources like health recommendations for Tanzania travellers from reputable sources. Additionally, comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended for any safari trip, covering medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and evacuation.

Planning Your Tanzania Safari with Your Visa

Once your visa is approved, you're ready to book your safari. Italian travellers can compare safari packages, lodge options, and tour operators on SafariFind, which aggregates Tanzania safari offerings to help you find the best fit for your budget and interests. Whether you're planning a northern circuit safari (Serengeti, Kilimanjaro, Ngorongoro Crater) or a Zanzibar beach extension, ensure your visa validity covers your entire stay.

Verification & Official Contacts

Last checked July 2026 — always confirm with official sources before travelling.

For the most up-to-date visa information, consult:

• Official Tanzania Immigration Portal: eservices.immigration.go.tz
• Tanzania Immigration Department (Visa Information): visatanzania@immigration.go.tz or info@immigration.go.tz
• Embassy of Tanzania in Rome: rome@nje.go.tz or +39 0633485820

Visa requirements, fees, and processing times can change without notice. Always verify current information on the official portal before submitting your application.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Italian citizens need a visa for Tanzania?

Yes, Italian citizens require a visa to enter Tanzania. Italy is not on the visa-free list. You can apply for an eVisa online before travel or obtain a visa on arrival at major entry points. Both options allow a 90-day stay for tourism.

What is the cost of a Tanzania visa for Italian citizens?

The Ordinary Visa (standard tourist visa) costs 50 USD. If you need to exit and re-enter Tanzania multiple times, the Multiple Entry Visa costs 100 USD. A Transit Visa costs 30 USD. Always apply through the official portal (eservices.immigration.go.tz) to avoid inflated fees from unauthorized agents.

How long does it take to get a Tanzania eVisa?

The official processing time is 5–10 business days from submission. This does not include weekends or Tanzanian public holidays. We recommend applying at least 2–3 weeks before your intended travel date to allow time for processing and to address any document requests.

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

You need a valid passport (6 months validity, 2 blank pages), a color passport-style photo (45 × 35 mm, JPG/JPEG, max 500 KB, plain background, full face), a scan of your passport biographical page, a return ticket, and proof of accommodation. All documents must be uploaded to the official portal.

What are the requirements for a passport photo for Tanzania?

Photos must be color, with a plain background, full face front view (top of hair to bottom of chin), eyes open and looking at the camera, natural expression, no shadows or distractions, 45 × 35 mm size, and JPG/JPEG format (max 500 KB). Glasses are allowed if you wear them regularly; head coverings only if for religious reasons.

Can I get a Tanzania visa on arrival?

Yes, Italian citizens can obtain a visa on arrival at major entry points (Kilimanjaro, Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar airports, and some land borders). Bring your passport, completed form, photo, 50 USD cash, return ticket, and accommodation proof. Processing takes 15–30 minutes, but queues can be longer than the eVisa option.

What is the maximum length of stay with a Tanzania visa?

The Ordinary Visa allows a maximum stay of 90 days from the date you enter Tanzania. You must exit the country before the 90-day period expires. If you need to stay longer, you must apply for an extension in-country, though extensions are not guaranteed.

What happens if I overstay my Tanzania visa?

Overstaying is a serious violation. Consequences include significant daily fines, deportation at your own expense, future visa denials, and potential legal action. Always plan your exit date carefully and leave Tanzania before your visa expires.

Can I apply for a Multiple Entry Visa if I'm combining Tanzania with Kenya or other countries?

Yes, the Multiple Entry Visa (100 USD) allows you to exit and re-enter Tanzania multiple times within 90 days. This is useful if you're crossing borders to Kenya, Uganda, or other neighbouring countries. However, each country requires its own separate visa.

What if my visa application is rejected?

Common rejection reasons include poor-quality photos, passport validity issues, incomplete information, or missing documents. If rejected, you can resubmit with corrected documents. Alternatively, you can apply for a visa on arrival. Contact the Tanzania Immigration Department (visatanzania@immigration.go.tz) if you need clarification on a rejection.

Can I print my eVisa or must I show it on my phone?

You should print your eVisa approval (the PDF emailed to you after approval) and bring it with you, though having it on your phone is also acceptable. Printing provides a backup in case your phone battery dies or you have connectivity issues at the airport.

Is travel insurance required for Tanzania?

Travel insurance is not a visa requirement, but it is highly recommended. Comprehensive travel insurance should cover medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and evacuation. This is especially important for safari travellers, as remote areas have limited medical facilities.