Tanzania Entry Requirements | Norine Forbes Safaris

What you need to enter Tanzania.

Please Note: Entry rules can change and vary by nationality. Always confirm current requirements with the official Tanzanian immigration service or your nearest embassy before you travel.

For most visitors, entering Tanzania is straightforward: you need a valid passport, a visa (on arrival or e-Visa), and in some cases a yellow fever certificate depending on your travel route. Zanzibar is part of Tanzania, so a single visa covers both the mainland and the islands.

Passport Requirements

Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your date of entry.
You need at least two blank pages for entry stamps and your visa.
Ensure your name matches exactly across your passport, flight booking, and visa application.

Tanzanian Visas

e-Visa · Highly Recommended

Apply in advance through the official Tanzanian e-Visa portal. Upload your passport details and photo, pay online, and receive your visa by email. Allow several days (longer in peak periods). Print your approved e-Visa to present on arrival. This usually ensures a much faster airport experience.

Visa on Arrival

Available to many nationalities at major airports (Kilimanjaro, Dar es Salaam, and Zanzibar) and key land borders. You’ll need your passport, a completed immigration form, a passport photo, and the fee in US dollars. Be prepared for queues at busy times.

Cost & Validity

Fees vary by nationality and visa type (single or multiple entry). Tourist visas are typically valid for up to 90 days. Some nationalities require a referral or special visa arranged in advance—always check your specific category before booking flights.

Tip: Carry crisp US dollar notes dated 2009 or later, as older or damaged notes may be refused.

Health Certificate

A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required if you are arriving from — or have transited more than 12 hours through — a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission. If you fly in directly from a low-risk region, it is usually not required. For full health guidance, including malaria prevention and recommended vaccines, please read our Vaccines Needed guide.

Customs & Currency

Currency: The Tanzanian shilling (TZS) is the local currency; however, US dollars are widely accepted for tourism services. Declare large sums of cash on arrival if required by current regulations.
Prohibited & Restricted: Standard international restrictions apply to firearms, drugs, and certain wildlife products. Never buy or carry items made from protected species (e.g., ivory).
Plastic Bags: Single-use plastic bags are banned in Tanzania — leave them out of your luggage entirely. A clear zip-lock bag for toiletries is permitted for your flight.
Electronics & Cards: ATMs are available in major cities. Inform your bank of your travel dates beforehand to avoid unexpected card blocks.

Arrival Checklist

Passport valid for 6+ months with two blank pages.
Printed e-Visa confirmation (or US dollars for a visa on arrival).
Yellow fever certificate (if your specific route requires it).
Return or onward ticket and accommodation/itinerary details.
Travel insurance documents and emergency contacts.
Crisp US dollars (dated 2009 or newer) plus a working bank card.