Tanzania Visa For UAE Residents 2026: Complete Guide To Requirements, Fees And Online Application Process
Tanzania Visa For UAE Residents 2026. If you are living in the UAE and planning to visit Tanzania, this guide is exactly what you need. In this detailed article, I will explain everything in a simple and clear way so you can easily understand the full visa process.
Tanzania is one of the most beautiful travel destinations in Africa. From wildlife safaris to Zanzibar beaches, it offers everything for tourists, business travelers, and even students.
This article will cover all important points including visa types, requirements, fees, application process, and important travel tips for UAE residents.
What is a Tanzania Visa?
A Tanzania visa is an official permission that allows a foreign person to enter and stay in Tanzania for a specific time.
You can visit Tanzania for:
- Tourism
- Business
- Study
- Medical treatment
- Meetings or conferences
Without a valid visa, most travelers cannot enter Tanzania.
Do UAE Residents Need a Tanzania Visa?
Yes, most UAE residents need a visa to enter Tanzania.
However:
- Some nationalities do not require a visa
- Others may need a special approval (referral visa)
So, your visa requirement depends on your passport, not just your UAE residence.
Entry Requirements For Tanzania
Before applying for a visa, make sure you meet these basic requirements:
Basic Entry Requirements
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- UAE residence visa (valid for at least 6 months)
- Passport-size photos
- Hotel booking or accommodation proof
- Return flight ticket
- Visa (if required)
Important Note About Entry
Even if you have a visa, entry is not guaranteed.
Immigration officers at the airport can refuse entry if:
- Your documents are incomplete
- You cannot explain your travel purpose
- You do not meet entry conditions
Types of Tanzania Visas For UAE Residents
There are different types of visas depending on your purpose of travel.
(a) Single Entry VISA (Ordinary / Tourist VISA)
This visa is granted for a single entry to a visitor for a duration of up to three months. It is issued for purposes such as holidays, business, medical treatment, studies, leisure, or any other activity that is legally recognized by law.
(b) Multiple VISA
This visa type allows a foreign national to enter Tanzania multiple times within the visa’s validity period. It is usually issued to individuals who need to travel frequently to the United Republic of Tanzania due to business or investment activities.
The validity of this visa ranges from three months to one year, but each stay must not exceed ninety days. Applications are generally submitted by a local contact on behalf of the applicant.
The visa fee is US $100, except for Pakistan nationals, who are required to pay US $200.
(c) Transit VISA
A Transit Visa is issued to travelers who need to pass through Tanzania on their way to another country. This visa is only granted to individuals who have:
- Confirmed onward tickets
- Sufficient funds for transit
- A valid visa for their final destination or proof of prior arrangements
It is issued for a maximum period of seven (7) days and cannot be extended. The standard fee for a Transit Visa is US $30.
(d) Business VISA
A Business Visa is issued to individuals who intend to carry out temporary business activities, trade, professional work, or specific assignments.
This visa is valid for a period of up to three months and is non-extendable.
(e) Gratis VISA
This visa is granted to holders of Diplomatic, Service, and Official Passports, provided they are traveling for official purposes. If traveling for non-official reasons, they are required to pay the applicable visa fees.
Holders of UN, SADC, AU Laissez-Passer, and other recognized international organizations are also eligible for a Gratis Visa, unless they are traveling for non-official purposes, in which case standard visa fees will apply.
(f) Referral Cases
Certain nationalities require special approval from the Commissioner General of Immigration or the Commissioner of Immigration (Zanzibar) before a visa can be issued. These fall under the Referral Visa Category.
Applicants from such countries are strongly advised not to book flights or make travel arrangements until their visa has been approved.
Visa Fee Rates
The standard visa fees are as follows:
- Ordinary Visa: US $50
- Pakistan Nationals: US $200
- USA Nationals: US $100
- Ireland Nationals: US $100
- Transit Visa: US $30
- Multiple Entry Visa: US $100
Countries That Do NOT Require Visa
Some nationalities can enter Tanzania without a visa.
- Antigua & Barbuda
- Anguilla
- Ashmore & Cartier Island
- Bahamas
- Barbados
- Bermuda
- Belize
- Brunei
- British Virgin Island
- British Indian Ocean Territory
- Botswana
- Cyprus
- Cayman Island
- Channel Island
- Cocos Island
- Cook Island
- Christmas Island
- Dominica
- Falkland Island
- Gambia
- Ghana
- Gibraltar
- Grenada
- Guernsey
- Guyana
- Heard Island
- Hong Kong
- Isle of Man
- Jamaica
- Jersey
- Kenya
- Kiribati
- Lesotho
- Malawi
- Montserrat
- Malaysia
- Madagascar
- Malta
- Mauritius
- Macao
- Mozambique
- Nauru
- Niue Island
- Norfolk Island
- Namibia
- Papua New Guinea
- Rwanda
- Romania
- Ross Dependency
- Samoa
- Seychelles
- Singapore
- Swaziland
- Solomon Island
- St. Kitts & Nevis
- St. Lucia
- St. Vincent
- St. Helena
- South African Republic
- Trinidad & Tobago
- Turks & Caicos
- Tokelau
- Tonga
- Tuvalu
- Vanuatu
- Uganda
- Zambia
- Zimbabwe
Countries That Require Referral Visa
Some nationalities need special permission, such as:
- Afghanistan
- Abkhazia
- Azerbaijan
- Bangladesh
- Chad
- Djibouti
- Ethiopia
- Eritrea
- Equatorial Guinea
- Kazakhstan Republic
- Kyigten Republic
- Lebanon
- Mali
- Mauritania
- Niger
- Palestine
- Senegal
- Somalia
- Sri Lanka
- Somaliland
- Sierra Leone
- Tajikistan
- Turkmenistan
- Uzbekistan
- Stateless persons or individuals holding refugee status
Processing for these applicants takes longer.
Tanzania e-Visa for UAE Residents
The easiest way to apply is through the online visa system.
Benefits:
- No embassy visit required
- Easy application
- Fast processing
Documents Required For Tanzania e-Visa
You will need:
- Passport (6 months validity)
- UAE residence visa (6 months validity)
- Passport-size photo
- Flight itinerary
- Hotel booking
- Visa application form
Single Entry / Ordinary / Tourist Visa
- Copy of the applicant’s valid passport;
- Visa application form dully filled in;
- Respective visa Fee;
- 2 passport size photographs (for those lodging their applications through embassies).
- Provide flight itinerary, ticket or tour operator package receipt.
- People traveling for specific reasons other than tourism must submit a letter from their organization or office. These include but not limited to volunteers, people attending meetings & conferences, studies, diplomatic, official and any other business not mentioned here.
- Visa applications for minors under 18 years traveling alone or with only one parent/legal guardians should be accompanied by a notarized letter, jointly signed by parents or legal guardians approving the minor to travel, A copy of their ID
Multiple Visa
- Valid passport at least for 6 month
- Visa application form duly filled in;
- Security Bond duly filled;
- Valid passport copy of the invitee;
- Three passport size photographs;
- Copy of the valid Passport or any other identity (For a host citizen of Tanzania);
- Documents of the Company like TIN, VAT, Registration Certificate, Certificate of Incorporation, Memorandum etc;
- Any other evidence to prove that the applicant is bound to travel frequently into the United Republic of Tanzania.
Transit Visa
- Copy of the applicant’s valid passport;
- An entry visa or onward ticket to the intended country of destination;
- Respective visa fee;
- 2 passport size photographs (for those lodging their applications through embassies).
Business Visa
- A valid passport at least for 6 month
- A work contract or any proof of the work/assignment to be performed within a period not exceeding three months;
- Respective visa fee.
Health & Vaccination Requirements
Before traveling to Tanzania, health requirements are important.
Yellow Fever Certificate
- Mandatory for most travelers
- Must show International Vaccination Certificate
- Required at airport check-in and immigration
Without it, airlines may refuse boarding.
Other Health Tips
- Carry basic medicines
- Use mosquito protection
- Drink bottled water
How To Apply for Tanzania Visa
Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Prepare Documents
Make sure you have all required documents ready.
Step 2: Apply Online
Fill the visa application form online.
Step 3: Pay Visa Fee
You can pay using:
- Credit card
- Online payment
Step 4: Wait for Approval
- Processing time: 24–48 hours (normal)
- Urgent: 4–6 hours (extra charges)
Step 5: Get Visa by Email
You will receive:
- Approval email
- e-Visa document
Print it before travel.
Tanzania e-Visa
Tanzania has an official online visa system where applicants can:
- Fill application form online
- Upload documents
- Pay visa fee
- Track application status
- Receive visa by email
After approval, you can print your visa and travel.
Tanzania Visa Fees For UAE Residents
Here is a simple breakdown:
| Visa Type | Fee |
|---|
| Ordinary / Tourist Visa (UAE Citizens) | $100 (Multiple entry, 1 year, 90 days at a time) |
| Ordinary / Tourist Visa (Non-UAE Citizens) | $50 (Single entry, 90 days) |
| Ordinary / Tourist Visa (Non-UAE Citizens) | $100 (Double entry, 90 days each) |
| Business / Volunteers (UAE Citizens) | $250 (Single entry, 90 days) |
| Business / Volunteers (Non-UAE Citizens) | $250 (Single entry, 90 days) |
| Mission / Meeting / Conference / Study (UAE Citizens) | $100 (Multiple entry, 1 year, 90 days at a time) |
| Mission / Meeting / Conference / Study (Non-UAE Citizens) | $100 (Double entry, 90 days each) |
| Referred Visa (Non-UAE Citizens) | $50 (Single entry) |
| Referred Visa (Non-UAE Citizens) | $100 (Double entry) |
| Residence Permit – Class A | $1500 |
| Residence Permit – Class B | $800 |
| Residence Permit – Class C | $500 |
| CTA (Temporary Assignment) | $200 |
| Exception Certificate | Gratis |
Processing Time
- Normal: 2–5 working days
- Urgent: Same day or within hours
Important Travel Rules
Before traveling, remember these rules:
Yellow Fever Vaccination (VERY IMPORTANT)
All travelers must have:
- International vaccination certificate
Without it:
- Airlines may refuse boarding
Passport Validity
Your passport must be valid for at least:
- 6 months
Proof of Stay
You must show:
- Hotel booking OR
- Invitation letter
Return Ticket
Immigration may ask for:
- Return or onward ticket
Why e-Visa is the Best Option
The e-Visa system is highly recommended because:
- No embassy visit needed
- Easy online process
- Fast approval system
- Secure and trackable
- Saves time and effort
Visa For Zanzibar From UAE
Good news!
If you get a Tanzania visa:
- You can visit Zanzibar also
No separate visa required.
Who Needs a Tanzania Visa?
Most foreigners need a visa to enter Tanzania. However:
- Some countries are visa-free
- Others require a visa before travel
If your country does not have a visa agreement with Tanzania, you must apply for a visa.
Can UAE Residents Get Visa on Arrival in Tanzania?
Yes, Tanzania offers visa on arrival for many travelers.
However:
- It may involve long queues
- Approval is not always guaranteed
- Immigration officers may ask for documents
That is why e-Visa is strongly recommended before travel.
Tanzania Immigration Rules (Important)
When arriving in Tanzania:
- Show passport and visa
- Provide return ticket
- Show hotel booking
- Answer basic travel questions
Immigration officers may also ask about your travel purpose.
Travel Tips For UAE Residents
Here are some useful tips:
Apply Early
Do not wait until last minute.
Double Check Documents
Incorrect details can cause rejection.
Carry Printed Copies
Always carry:
- Visa copy
- Hotel booking
- Flight ticket
Follow Visa Rules
Do not overstay your visa.
Visa Rejection Reasons
Your visa can be rejected if:
- Wrong information
- Missing documents
- Invalid passport
- Security concerns
Important Note About Visa
Having a visa does NOT guarantee entry.
Final decision is made by:
- Immigration officer
Tanzania Visa Working Hours (Embassy)
- Monday to Friday
- 9:00 AM to 2:30 PM
Processing Time at Embassy
- Minimum: 5 working days
Additional Visa Services
Extra services may include:
- Same-day service ($100 extra)
- Next-day service ($50 extra)
Special Passes in Tanzania
Tanzania also offers special passes:
Dependent Pass
For:
- Wife
- Children
- Family members
Student Pass
For students studying in Tanzania.
Business Pass
For short-term business activities.
Transit Pass
For travelers passing through Tanzania.
Why Visit Tanzania?
Tanzania is one of the most popular travel destinations in Africa. It is famous for:
- Big wildlife safaris (lions, elephants, giraffes)
- Mount Kilimanjaro (highest mountain in Africa)
- Beautiful beaches of Zanzibar
- National parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro
- Friendly local culture
UAE residents love Tanzania because it is easy to travel, affordable, and full of adventure.
Important Rules for UAE Applicants
- Cash is NOT accepted
- Payment via bank or card only
- Visa fee is NON-refundable
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many applications get delayed or rejected due to simple mistakes:
- Wrong passport details
- Expired passport
- Blurry document uploads
- Missing hotel booking
- Incorrect travel dates
Always double-check your application.
For More Information Contact
The Principal Commissioner of Immigration Services
- P.O. Box 512, Dar es Salaam
- Tel: +255 222 850 576
- Fax: +255 222 850 584
- Website: https://www.immigration.go.tz / https://www.moha.go.tz
- Email: [email protected] or [email protected]
Also Contact
Commissioner of Immigration Services – Zanzibar
- P.O. Box 1354, ZanzibarTel: +255 242239148 / +255 242239149
- Fax: +255 2422239149
FAQs And Tanzania Visa For UAE Residents
Can UAE residents apply for a Tanzania visa online?
Ans: Yes, UAE residents can easily apply for a Tanzania visa online through the official e-Visa system. The process is simple and does not require visiting the embassy. You just need to fill out the application form, upload your documents, and pay the fee online. After submission, your application is reviewed, and you will receive the visa approval through email if accepted.
How long can UAE residents stay in Tanzania?
Ans: Most UAE residents can stay in Tanzania for up to 90 days on a tourist or single-entry visa. However, the final duration is decided by the immigration officer at the airport. If you are using a multiple-entry visa, each visit should not exceed 90 days even if the visa is valid for a longer period.
Is Zanzibar included in the Tanzania visa?
Ans: Yes, Zanzibar is part of Tanzania, so you do not need a separate visa. Once your Tanzania visa is approved, you can travel freely between mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar without any additional visa requirements.
What is the visa fee for UAE residents?
Ans: The visa fee depends on your nationality and visa type. A standard tourist visa usually costs $50, but for some nationalities like Pakistan, the fee can be $200. Multiple-entry visas typically cost $100, while transit visas are around $30. Business visa fees are higher and can go up to $250.
How long does it take to process a Tanzania visa?
Ans: The normal processing time for a Tanzania e-Visa is between 2 to 5 working days. However, in some cases, it can be faster, especially if you choose urgent processing. Referral visas or special cases may take longer, so it is always better to apply early.
What documents are required for a Tanzania visa?
Ans: You will need a valid passport with at least six months validity, a UAE residence visa, a passport-size photograph, flight itinerary, and hotel booking. In some cases, additional documents like an invitation letter or business documents may also be required depending on your visa type.
Is the Yellow Fever vaccination required?
Ans: Yes, the Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for all travelers entering Tanzania. You must carry the International Certificate of Vaccination, as airlines and immigration officers may ask for it. Without this certificate, you may not be allowed to travel.
Can I get a visa on arrival in Tanzania?
Ans: Yes, some travelers can get a visa on arrival, but it is not recommended. Applying online in advance is safer and faster, especially for UAE residents. It helps you avoid long queues and reduces the risk of entry issues at the airport.
What happens if my visa is rejected?
Ans: If your visa is rejected, you will be informed through email. The visa fee is non-refundable, and you may need to correct the mistakes or provide additional documents before applying again. It is important to fill out the application carefully to avoid rejection.
Can I extend my Tanzania visa?
Ans: In most cases, short-term visas like tourist or business visas are not easily extendable. If you need to stay longer, you must contact immigration authorities in Tanzania. It is always better to plan your travel within the allowed visa duration to avoid any problems.
Conclusion
Getting a Tanzania visa for UAE residents is simple if you follow the correct steps. You need a valid passport, UAE residence visa, and travel documents. Choose the right visa type and apply online carefully. Always carry your visa copy, hotel booking, and return ticket. The Yellow Fever vaccination is mandatory for travel. Remember, having a visa does not guarantee entry, as the immigration officer makes the final decision. If you apply early and avoid mistakes, your process will be smooth, and you can enjoy a stress-free trip to Tanzania.
About The Author
