Introduction
A visa is a permission granted to a foreign visitor who intends to enter into Tanzania for the purpose of visit, tourism, leisure holiday, business, health treatment, attending conference or any other related activities recognized by laws of the country. They are governed by the Immigration (Visa) Regulations, 2016.
A visa can be either a multiple-entry visa or a single-entry visa. A single-entry visa allows a visitor to enter a country only once during the validity period of the visa. Once you leave the country, the visa becomes invalid. If you wish to re-enter the country, you need to apply for a new visa. On the other hand, a multiple-entry visa is issued to those whose business or circumstances require frequent visits to the United Republic of Tanzania for a period not exceeding twelve months.
Types of Visa
a) Ordinary Visa-This Visa is issued for a single entry to a visitor for a period not exceeding three months for the purpose of holidays, visiting, leisure, health treatment, studies or any other activity legally recognized by the Law. The prescribed fee for such kind of Visa USD 50.
b) Business Visa – is issued once to foreigners so as to allow them to enter in the United Republic of Tanzania for the following purposes;
- To conduct special assignments such as fixing/repairing machines or to run short term training, etc.
- To conduct professional roles such as auditing accounts etc.
- To conduct lawful business according to the laws of the country.
The Respective visa fee amounts to USD 250.
c) Transit Visa – This Visa may be issued to a person for the purpose of transiting through Tanzania to another destination outside the United Republic for a period not exceeding seven days. The Respective visa fee 30 USD.
d) Gratis Visa– This visa may be issued for a single entry or multiple entries to a holder of diplomatic, services or official passport or Travel Document of recognized International Organization who is on official duty and their Dependents. It can be also issued to a holder of ordinary passport or Travel document as it may be directed by the Commissioner General of Immigration and Commissioner of Immigration Zanzibar.
e) Student Visa – This Visa is issued to foreigners who intend to pursue academic studies in Tanzania. It is applied Online while a prospective student is still outside Tanzania. Applicant must have an admission from accredited University, college or any approved Institution in Tanzania. The admission and Registration document of such Institution should be joined as a single PDF document and MUST be uploaded online during application.
NB:
- Language teaching institutions are not eligible to provide 2 years visa validity. Applicants who wish to come and learn languages may only apply for 3 months visa.
- For those who have already entered the country, they are required to apply for Student Pass AND NOT Student Visa.
Mode of Visa Application
- Online Application (e-Visa):
The e-Visa is available for everyone except citizens of countries that do not require a visa to enter Tanzania. The e-Visa is a popular and convenient method for entry into Tanzania.
How to apply online
- Visit the official Tanzania Visa Application System.
- Select the type of visa you need.
- Complete the visa application form.
- Attach the necessary documents to support your application.
- Wait for an email with your application result.
II. Visa on Arrival:
If you need a visa to enter Tanzania, you can obtain it upon arrival at the port of entry. And the duration of the visa will be determined at the entry point.Make sure to check if you are eligible for a visa on arrival.
Required Documents for Visa Application.
- A valid passport (with at least six months’ validity after your return date).
- A fully completed visa application form.
- A bank statement demonstrating financial stability to cover expenses during your stay.
- A proof of Travel Arrangements i.e. evidence of your travel plans including flights bookings, Accommodation proof (such as a rental agreement, hotel reservation, or invitation letter from a friend or family member in Tanzania).
- Payment of Visa i.e. is prepared to pay the applicable visa fee.
Visa Validity and Expiration
A Visa may be issued for a period not exceeding 90 days based on such terms and conditions as may be specified in the respective visa, and it may expired based on the following grounds.
- Where it is issued in the Tanzania mission and the granted period lapsed prior to the date of travel by the holder.
- Where the holders have been issued with a permit or pass.
Application for Visa Extension
An Application for a Visa Extension must be made at Immigration Head Office and fill in the application form. For extension of Visa one may either made an application through;
- E-visa application system and fill in the online form make necessary payments depending on the visa category and submit your application online.
The application is reviewed internally and you will receive notifications via email regarding acceptance or rejection. However, depending the situation, you may be required to visit the nearest Tanzania Embassies or Consular Offices for interview.
- In- Person Extension
Is done at head office of immigration office in Dar es Salaam and bring the following documents;
- Your Valid Passport and a filed extension form.
- Fees for payment.
N: The grace period for overstaying is 30days for a resident visa. However, People on business visa as well as tourists’ visas are not allowed on this grace period.
What Happens When One Has Overstayed?
One who has overstayed his Visa validity must travel to Tanzania Immigration head office in Dar es Salaam and payment for a fine its USD 600 as a fine after that a pass will be issued. The penalty for overstaying is not negotiable.
Time Frame for Visa Application in Tanzania
The processing time for obtaining a visa to visit Tanzania can vary depending on where you submit your application. On average it takes approximately 10- 15 working days for you visa to be processed. However, it is essential to know that this is just a general estimate as the processing time may vary based on different factors. More over for Referral visa category it may take longer than usual.
Conclusion
The laws and regulations governing immigration are subject to frequent and often unpredictable change, driven by a variety of internal and external factors. As such, it is strongly recommended that individuals seeking to navigate the complex landscape of immigration law seek out the guidance and support of expert legal professionals and immigration institutions. At Lawfic Attorneys, our team of dedicated immigration experts stands ready to provide comprehensive assistance with all aspects of the visa application process, as well as related permits for both work and residence. We invite you to contact us today to learn more about how we can help you navigate the complex and ever-changing landscape of immigration law.
